Tourism Growth and Industry Capacity
BOHOL - Bohol highlighted its tourism accomplishments during the 2026 State of the Province Address, held at the Bohol Cultural Center on October 9, 2026, with a focus on sustainable tourism development, industry partnerships, and the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark. The province recorded 1.49 million tourist arrivals in 2025, generating approximately PHP26 billion in tourism receipts, a 12% increase from the previous year. Tourism capacity also expanded to around 1,000 establishments and more than 13,000 rooms, representing a 30% increase in capacity. These figures reflect the sector’s importance to the provincial economy and the continuing need to balance tourism growth with quality service, fair pricing, and responsible destination management.
Expanding Connectivity and Industry Partnerships
Strengthening travel connections and working closely with tourism stakeholders were also key priorities. The province reported efforts to expand air connectivity through chartered flights linking Bohol with Japan and Bali, Indonesia, alongside additional wide-body flights from Manila. Improved connections can make the province more accessible to domestic and international visitors while creating opportunities for hotels, restaurants, transport providers, tour operators, and local enterprises. Tourism events and industry partnerships also help generate business for communities beyond major destinations. During the address, tourism development was framed as an opportunity that should benefit not only accommodation providers but also farmers, artisans, micro, small, and medium enterprises, and other community-based businesses.
Protecting the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark
Sustainable tourism remains closely connected to protecting Bohol’s natural and cultural heritage. As the Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, the province continues to promote development that supports conservation, community livelihoods, and responsible visitor experiences. Initiatives include climate adaptation planning for Balicasag Island and the Loboc River, alongside efforts to improve tourism infrastructure and strengthen visitor safety. These priorities reflect the importance of protecting ecosystems and cultural assets while ensuring tourism remains a source of livelihood for local communities. Through coordinated planning, industry cooperation, and environmental stewardship, Bohol aims to build a tourism sector that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable for future generations.
