Dinagat Islands Tourist Arrivals Up by Over 30% in 1H 2025

Dinagat islands: The Dinagat Islands Tourism and Culture Office (DITCO) reported a significant increase in tourist arrivals in the province during the first half of 2025.

According to Philippines News Agency, data provided by DITCO on Thursday indicated that 38,396 arrivals were recorded in the province from January to June this year, marking a 30.92 percent increase from the 29,420 logged in the same period in 2024. Domestic arrivals climbed to 37,396 from 28,611 in 2024, reflecting a 30.70 percent increase, while foreign arrivals rose to 1,122 from 809, a 38.69 percent increase.

Benlen Navas, the Provincial Tourism Officer, mentioned in an interview on Thursday that school breaks, favorable summer weather, and the long Holy Week were among the factors contributing to the increase in arrivals. Navas also highlighted that cultural events and fiestas attracted more visitors to the island province this year.

The strong tourism momentum is further fueled by the effective promotion of the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. Additionally, Navas noted an increase in the number of accommodation facilities in the province, primarily homestays, which rose from 10 in 2024 to 22 this year.