The Dinagat Islands Tourism and Culture Office (DITCO) reported a significant increase in tourist arrivals in the province during the first half of 2025.

Data provided by DITCO on Thursday indicated that 38,396 arrivals were recorded in the province from January to June this year, a 30.92 percent increase from the 29,420 logged in the same period in 2024.

Domestic arrivals jumped to 37,396 from 28,611 in 2024, a 30.70 percent increase, while foreign arrivals also rose to 1,122 from 809, a 38.69 percent increase.

“Among the factors that contributed to the increase in arrivals are school breaks, the favorable summer weather, and the long Holy Week,” said Benlen Navas, the Provincial Tourism Officer, in an interview on Thursday.

Navas noted that cultural events and fiestas also attracted more visitors to the island province this year.

The strong tourism momentum is also fueled by the effective promotion of the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Nilo Demerey Jr, he added.

Navas also noted an increase in the number of accommodation facilities in the province, primarily homestays, from 10 in 2024 to 22 this year. (PNA)