The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) declared an initiative to host multiple engaging events aimed at boosting tourism in the Bicol Region. These plans were unveiled during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas event in Legazpi City on March 6.

Bicol aims to attract 8.5 million tourists by 2028, expecting to generate PHP 34.5 billion in tourism revenue and create 15% more jobs in the region.

Surfing Summit

DOT regional director Herbie Aguas announced an upcoming Surfing Summit, which will invite surfers from renowned local beaches like Siargao and La Union. The summit will occur from July to December at various beaches, including Bagasbas, Gubat, and Baras.

“Every surfer from Siargao, La Union, and Zambales will be coming over.”
(Translation: Herbie Aguas emphasizes the expected high participation from surfers across popular surfing hubs.)

Diving Festival

Additionally, the region will host a diving festival on Ticao Island, known for its beautiful coral gardens. Aguas noted that this initiative is part of a flagship project to promote more dive sites in Bicol, replicating the success seen in Batangas and Cebu.

“Divers will take photographs, which will be great for promoting Bicol.”
(Translation: This initiative focuses on showcasing Bicol’s natural beauty to attract more tourists.)

Moreover, the Bicol Region plans to introduce river tourism experiences inspired by Bohol’s Loboc River cruise, to be offered along the Talisay and Bato Rivers in Catanduanes.