MIMAROPA region marked a banner year for tourism in 2024, recording an 11.52% increase in visitor arrivals and garnering multiple international accolades, according to officials of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Tourist arrivals reached 2,601,253 in 2024, up from 2,332,616 in 2023, reflecting the region’s growing appeal as a travel destination for both domestic and international visitors.

The growth is attributed to enhanced market and product development, improved infrastructure, and strengthened commitment to visitor experiences.

Palawan, the region’s crown jewel, dominated international rankings in 2024.

The province ranked fourth as a trending global destination by TripAdvisor and secured the 13th position on Travel+Leisure’s best islands list.

Additional recognition came from Times Travel India, which ranked Palawan as Asia’s third most visited island.

The province’s beaches received particular acclaim, with Nacpan Beach in El Nido listed among Lonely Planet’s “incredible beaches,” and Bonbon Beach in Romblon placing 45th on the world’s 50 best beaches list.

At the ATOP Pearl Awards held in General Santos City in October 2024, MIMAROPA’s local government units demonstrated exceptional performance.

San Jose, Occidental Mindoro emerged as the grand winner for best tourism-oriented municipality in the Philippines and secured first runner-up in the municipal tourism month/week celebration.

Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro captured three awards, including recognition for tourism promotions and municipal LGU performance.

The region’s tourism infrastructure saw remarkable expansion with the Central Philippines Tourism Expo (CPTEx) 2024 generating substantial business opportunities.

Held in SM City Puerto Princesa from July 19-21, 2024, the expo facilitated business-to-business matching and post tours, resulting in an estimated total of P8.1 million pesos in sales and leads.

Maritime tourism reached new milestones as the region welcomed 33 cruise calls in 2024.

The Australia-based Coral Geographer made history with its first expedition through Mindoro and Palawan waters from November 6-12, 2024 marking an advancement in the region’s cruise tourism sector.

Professional development remained a priority, with the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program training 4,813 tourism workers through 102 specialized sessions.

Looking ahead to early 2025, the region has scheduled numerous cultural celebrations, including the Mile de Gallo Festival in Calapan City on January 6; the Marble Festival in Romblon from January 8-14; the Biniray Festival in Romblon on January 12; and various municipal festivals across Oriental Mindoro and Palawan through March 2025.

The Department of Tourism MIMAROPA office, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, also launched innovative programs such as the “Pasyal Kita! Palawan” Philippine Experience initiative, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage and arts.

The program attracted 70 delegates from various countries, including Thailand and Malaysia.

“The remarkable growth in tourism reflects years of dedicated development and collaboration between local government units, tourism stakeholders, and community partners,” the DOT said. “These achievements position MIMAROPA as a premier destination that combines natural wonders with cultural richness.”

The region’s success in sustainable tourism was further highlighted by the Blue Park Award received by Siete Pecados Marine Park in Coron from the Marine Conservation Institute, demonstrating MIMAROPA’s commitment to environmental preservation alongside tourism development.

*Data and infographic courtesy of DOT MIMAROPA Office