CATARMAN–The Northern Samar provincial government is upbeat about drawing more visitors to the province through the month-long celebration of the 2nd Ibabao Festival, showcasing its culture, rich history, local products and tourism destination.
Citing their experiences last year, Vice Governor Clarence Datu said the festival was proven effective in inviting tourists to the province as observed by the lone airline operating the Manila-Catarman flights.
“The flights to Catarman have been overbooked. Philippine Airlines (PAL) is planning to add two more flights weekly starting June or July,” Datu told reporters in a press briefing at the provincial capitol here late Sunday.
Currently, PAL flies to Catarman from Manila four times weekly using an 86-seater turboprop aircraft every Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Northern Samar provincial tourism officer Josette Doctor said the 1st Ibabao Festival attracted local tourists but this year, there were already foreign travelers taking photos during the float parade on Sunday.
“This is what we want to achieve – to invite not just local tourists, but foreign visitors as well. We hope that more of them will come next year,” Doctor added.