CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) — The MIMAROPA region has firmly established itself as a key destination for cruise tourism, recording 40 cruise calls in 2024, the Department of Tourism (DOT) MIMAROPA said.
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on March 26, Regional Director Roberto P. Alabado III said that the cruise arrivals in the region marks a strong recovery and continued growth, as Puerto Princesa City and Coron in Palawan remain the top attractions for visitors arriving by sea.
“The province of Palawan continues to emerge as the top attraction for visitors coming from the cruise ports or cruise lines from different countries around the world,” he said.
DOT shared that the region’s rapid rebound from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the resilience of the tourism sector.
In 2019, MIMAROPA welcomed just 12 cruise calls, but this number plummeted to zero in 2020, 2021 and 2022 as global travel restrictions severely impacted cruise operations. However, in 2023, the region showed a robust recovery with 34 cruise calls and by 2024, that number rose to 40, reflecting a staggering 233 percent growth since pre-pandemic levels.
Alabado expressed pride in the achievements of the region saying, “The substantial increase in cruise arrivals is a testament to MIMAROPA’s rising prominence as a cruise tourism hub in the Philippines. This success, not only for tourism, but also for the local economies that benefit from the influx of visitors.”
DOT MIMAROPA cited that a notable milestone in 2024 was the maiden cruise call of Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro and Modessa Island in Roxas town, Palawan. The Coral Geographer Expedition– an Australia-based ship, made its inaugural voyage to these destinations in November, expanding the region’s appeal to cruise tourists.
On November 8, Calapan City welcomed its first cruise ship, followed by Modessa Island three days later. The Coral Geographer Expedition sailed a weeklong route from November 6 to 12, visiting several islands in Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque and Palawan.
Alabado added that the expansion to these new destinations not only diversifies Calapan City’s offerings but also introduces tourists to lesser-known but equally breathtaking locations. Calapan City, the capital of Oriental Mindoro, showcased its rich history and culture, with tourists visiting the Oriental Mindoro Heritage Museum and the centuries-old Sto. Niño Cathedral Church.
DOT MIMAROPA further intensified its commitment in marketing and community engagement to thrive MIMAROPA as a key player in the Philippines’ thriving cruise tourism.
In 2025, the tourism department also plans to host 43 cruise calls, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination for international cruise travelers. (AS/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro)
