Cruise ship docks at Puerto Princesa
MANILA, Philippines - Making its maiden voyage to Puerto Princesa on Jan. 26, the cruise ship M/S Nippon Maru will be bringing 350 Japanese tourists who will tour the city and its environs. This will include tours of the capital city, Honda Bay and a visit to the St. Paul’s Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
A welcome reception awaits them with no less than Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucio Bayron, Vice Mayor Luis Marcaida along with various city officials and personnel of the Department of Tourism personally welcoming them. The passengers will be treated to cultural performances by the Banwa Dance & Arts, Drum and Lyre Corps of Puerto Princesa. Bands from various schools will also have presentations for the guests.
As part of the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s efforts to have the Philippines included in the routes of international cruise companies, this event marks significant progress in highlighting the country as a viable cruise destination. With the cruise segment continuing to increase as part of the country’s tourism arrivals, the industry expects to significantly contribute even more to foreign tourist arrivals as well as foreign exchange receipts.
Reports from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reveal that $52.31 billion in global direct cruise tourism expenditures generates a significant contribution to the global economy.
Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. has focused on developing the cruising industry and is committed to bringing more international cruise lines to the Philippines.
