The first visit of a cruise ship to Higatangan Island in Naval, Biliran, has inspired its local government unit to step up its effort to draw more tourists to the picturesque island.

The local government reported on Monday that the MV Coral Geographer Cruise Ship, carrying 40 guests, mostly Australians, visited Higatangan Island on Oct. 31 for a cultural immersion experience.

“The local government of Naval aspires to promote its esteemed attractions not only throughout the Philippines but also to a global audience, as Higatangan Island is truly a source of pride for Naval,” the local government said.

Upon the guests’ arrival, locals offered them “halo-halo” in coconut shells as a warm introduction to the locals’ hospitality, according to the Department of Tourism.

The guests joined the Tangan-Tangan Festival, where young dancers showcased Higatangan’s heritage. They also observed and experienced mat weaving, relaxing herbal massage, traditional fishing, traditional boodle fight, and relaxing on the iconic sandbar.

“Higatangan Island stands ready to showcase the natural beauty and warm hospitality that Naval has to offer,” the local government added.

Higatangan is an island within Naval, the capital town of Biliran province. It has two villages, Mabini and Libertad, with a population of around 2,000 people.

The island is popular for its shifting sandbar —the only sandbar on Biliran Island, the “Capilla del Mar,” an underwater chapel with a 12-foot cross and eight benches that represent the eight municipalities of the province: a cliff diving spot and areas suitable for scuba diving.

Other activities that tourists may do on the island include the manta tow, cycling around the circumferential road of the island, a trek to the lighthouse located at the highest point of Higatangan, and sunrise and sunset watching. (PNA)