By Ric Obedencio | 09:15 AM June 26, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY – The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is raising concerns among tourism stakeholders in Bohol, as it begins to affect international travel and tourist arrivals.
During a recent meeting of the Provincial Tourism Council (PTC), members expressed alarm over the impact of the Middle East crisis, which has disrupted and even canceled bookings, particularly affecting Boholanos whose livelihoods depend heavily on tourism.
The Bohol Association of Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants (BAHRR), represented by hotelier Alan Torres of Bohol Beach Club, reported a noticeable decline in South Korean tourist arrivals—previously Bohol’s top market. In response, industry players are now eyeing alternative markets, including Japanese and Vietnamese travelers.
The situation is further compounded by the provincial government’s abrupt suspension of whale shark watching in Lila, Alburquerque, and Dauis due to violations of marine mammal protection protocols. These tours had been a major attraction for Korean visitors. The closure of Virgin Island off Panglao—once a unique and highly marketable destination—has also led to reduced tourist interest.
BAHRR also raised concerns over broader geopolitical developments, including potential economic fallout from the Israel-Iran war, an airplane crash in India, and rising oil prices. Additionally, they cited lingering effects of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s restrictive immigration policies, which continue to impact travel behavior.
The meeting, co-chaired by Atty. Doy Nunag, emphasized the need for strategic marketing efforts and proactive measures to offset the challenges.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Price Coordinating Council is considering issuing show-cause orders to establishments found imposing unjustified price hikes, as a precaution against inflation triggered by the global crisis, according to a statement from the provincial government’s media bureau.
