Manila: The city tourism office on Monday expressed confidence that tourist arrivals will bounce back in the second quarter as gasoline prices continue to drop. 'We have seen our small groups of tourists returning, but we still need to get the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) clients. Most of them canceled their schedules to hold their events in Baguio when the cost-cutting order and fuel-saving measures were issued,' City tourism officer Aloysius Mapalo said in an interview.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mapalo expressed hope that MICE organizers will reconsider their earlier decisions to cancel their schedules at the height of oil price hikes amid the Middle East crisis. He stated the city remains confident in recovering from the effects of the fuel price increase on the tourism industry, citing Baguio's status as a top destination for major events.

The city government previously reported that tourist arrivals in Baguio dropped by 50 percent to 60 percent, particularly during the Holy Week. However, by the end of April, there was a noticeable increase in tourist arrivals, continuing into May, especially during long holiday weekends.

Mapalo noted that various bus companies have restored their trip schedules as demand from tourists has increased. During the peak of the fuel crisis, these companies had reduced their trips by as much as 40 percent but have now returned to their regular schedules.

The city continues to promote itself as the country's Summer Capital under its official tourism and wellness campaign 'Breath Baguio'. Mapalo highlighted that the natural weather in Baguio is a significant attraction for tourists visiting the city.