By I. Inojales | 03:10 PM March 27, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — The provincial government of Bohol has expressed full readiness to accommodate the expected influx of visitors for Holy Week 2026, highlighting strengthened coordination across tourism, transport, and safety sectors.
During a recent episode of The Capitol Reports held at the Ceremonial Hall of the Provincial Capitol on March 27, officials outlined comprehensive preparations aimed at ensuring a safe, seamless, and spiritually enriching experience for both domestic pilgrims and international tourists.
The discussion underscored the province’s continued push to position itself as a premier destination for faith-based tourism and sustainable leisure, anchored on its recognition as a Unesco Global Geopark.
Leading the briefing were tourism and transport officials, including Provincial Tourism Office officer-in-charge Joanne Pinat, along with representatives from airport, seaport, and hospitality sectors.
Pinat said the province is implementing proactive and coordinated strategies to manage the anticipated surge in visitors.
She reported that Bohol has recorded a two-year average of 2,600 daily tourist arrivals, with over 16,200 passengers passing through seaports—largely driven by pilgrimage activities such as Visita Iglesia and religious retreats.
She added that ongoing collaborations with the Department of Tourism and local stakeholders include promotional campaigns, influencer engagements, and targeted marketing in key international markets such as Europe and Japan. These efforts are supported by training programs for frontline personnel to ensure quality service.
Meanwhile, the accommodation sector is fully prepared, according to Greg Dennis Madanguit of the Bohol Association of Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants.
He said more than 1,000 establishments are ready to host guests, maintaining stable rates while offering special Holy Week packages. Despite a slower start earlier this year, occupancy is projected to rise by 22 percent in April.
Airport authorities assured uninterrupted operations at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, with no flight cancellations expected. Officials said measures are in place to ensure efficient passenger flow and safety.
Seaport operations are also on heightened readiness. The Philippine Ports Authority reported sustained high passenger traffic across major ports in Tagbilaran, Tubigon, Getafe, Jagna, Ubay, and Talibon.
Oplan Help Desks will be installed in key terminals, alongside stricter monitoring of cleanliness, personnel conduct, and safety compliance.
While some ferry trips may be adjusted, no cancellations are anticipated.
To enrich the visitor experience, the province is introducing Visita Iglesia packages that highlight Bohol’s heritage churches and spiritual traditions, offering tourists a deeper cultural and religious engagement beyond sightseeing.
Security measures have also been intensified, with a multi-agency task force involving the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Coast Guard deployed across airports, seaports, and major tourist areas.
Travelers are advised to follow official guidelines and use authorized booking channels to avoid inconvenience, including long queues and unauthorized ticketing.
In support of accessibility, local authorities are considering temporary reductions in terminal and aeronautical fees starting April 1, pending final approval.
“We want to welcome our visitors, and we ensure their safety here in Bohol. Guests will, of course, be properly welcomed,” Pinat said.
Officials expressed confidence that the province’s preparations will allow Bohol to handle the Holy Week rush while maintaining its standards for safety, hospitality, and responsible tourism. With a report from PIMO
