SOURCE: PIA 10
Welcome to paradise! MAMBAJAO, Camiguin is an island province in the Philippines unique for its raw, unspoiled beauty, and exotic charm. The provincial government, under the able leadership of Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, is actively working to increase tourist arrivals from 250,000 in 2023 to a whopping 500,000 by the end of 2024.
Camiguin's tourism drive is not just ambitious, it's strategic. The province is looking to tap into the power of events and festivals to attract more visitors. Preparations are underway for Panaad 2024, the Department of Education (DepEd) regional meet in May, along with the San Juan, Hibok-Hibok, and Lanzones Festivals. Expect a grand spectacle of culture, music, and local delicacies as Camiguin puts on a show to remember.
At the core of this tourism drive is an unwavering commitment to peace and security. Gov. Romualdo has emphasized the need for stringent measures that can guarantee a peaceful and orderly province, especially considering the projected increase in tourist arrivals.
During the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting on March 12, the Camiguin Provincial Police Office (Cam PPO) reported 23 crimes recorded in the first quarter of 2024, a slight increase from 21 in 2023. Out of these, 11 non-index crimes were noted, with seven already solved and cases filed at the prosecutor's office.
In the fight against illegal drugs, Cam PPO apprehended four individuals, seizing 3.201 grams of drugs worth P21,746.80. Additional arrests were made for illegal gambling and logging. The governor has been particularly focused on curbing the illegal transportation of cigarettes via pump boats.
Despite being declared insurgency-free in 2015, Camiguin remains vigilant against potential threats from rebel groups. The commanding officer of the Army unit stationed in the province, Lt. Col. Christian Uy, reassured that no presence of the CPP-NPA has been detected in Camiguin.
Addressing local concerns, Gov. Romualdo has urged the chief executives of the five towns to designate a single fish landing area. This proposal aims to streamline fishing activities and ensure better regulation and control.
In another novel initiative, Gov. Romualdo has proposed excluding illegal drug users from participating in basketball leagues in the province. The move is seen as another step towards maintaining peace and order in the region.
In a bid to promote Camiguin internationally, the province recently participated in the Internationale Tourismus-Bรถrse Berlin Convention in Berlin, Germany. This has helped elevate its status as a top tourist destination.
For the first quarter of 2024, Camiguin registered 80,405 arrivals, comprising 49.7 percent or 39,959 local tourists, 5.95 percent or 4,787 foreign tourists, and 44.35 percent or 35,659 residents. These numbers show a promising trend towards achieving the 500,000 target for 2024.
Camiguin is not just a place, it's an experience. With the provincial government's proactive efforts towards ensuring peace, security, and a memorable experience for all visitors, there's no doubt that the target of 500,000 tourist arrivals by the end of 2024 will be achieved. Come, be a part of the Camiguin story!