The Department of Tourism is planning to develop a cruise ship terminal in the Western Visayas this year.
DOT Regional Director, Atty. Helen Catalbas, said that they are considering the Iloilo City International Port in Loboc, Lapaz and another one in northern Iloilo, for the project.
Catalbas revealed to the press that they are just waiting for the foreign cruise consultant’s recommendation.
“We are excited to know if which part of Western Visayas is feasible and have greater opportunity to be developed,” she said.
Cruise ships stay from six to 12 hours during their call.
The Royal Caribbean Cruise is searching for a destination that could accomodate 4,500 to 6,000 guests, according to the regional director. She said that even Boracay Island can only accomodate 3,000 guests.
The Royal Caribbean Cruise is willing to enter into a joint venture with local investors for the construction of the cruise ship terminal, she added.
The Department of Tourism will focus on provisional training in this year’s second quarter, Catalbas said.
“We will do things indoor through trainings,” she explained. -John Esconde
