𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐈𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐬𝐮𝐤𝐚 𝐈𝐈

Boracay Island, Malay Aklan- This resort island continues to make waves in the global cruise tourism scene as it welcomed its second cruise ship of the year yesterday, January 25, 2026, the Asuka (“Ah-ska”) II of Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK).

A total of 861 passengers, composed of crew and guests, majority of whom were Japanese, disembarked on the island to enjoy day tours and free-and-easy activities, marking another milestone in Boracay’s growing appeal as a world-class cruise destination.

A plaque exchange ceremony held aboard the vessel highlighted the appreciation of the Provincial Government of Aklan and the Local Government Unit of Malay for Asuka II’s selection of Boracay as a premier excursion stop, following Manila and prior to its onward journey to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. The ceremony was led by Mr. Niven M. Maquirang, representing the Provincial Government of Aklan and Governor Hon. Jose Enrique M. Miraflores.

Representing the LGU-Malay under the leadership of Municipal Mayor Hon. Frolibar Sacapaño Bautista were Ms. Cherry C. Escarilla, Acting College Administrator of Malay College, and Mr. Rechan A. Casidsid, Tourist Receptionist I of the Municipal Tourism Office. Also present were key tourism stakeholders and industry partners, including the Department of Tourism Region VI, represented by Mr. Gabriel Cahilig on behalf of Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, and Mr. Simbas Hisole of the Philippine Ports Authority.

To ensure a warm and seamless experience for cruise guests, the Office of the Municipal Tourism deployed personnel across strategic locations, including the welcome lei reception at Cagban Port, assistance desks at Balabag Wetland Park No. 4, Beachfront Stations 1 and 3, MI-Desks, and throughout the guests’ send-off.

The arrival of Asuka II further highlights Boracay’s rising profile in the international cruise tourism market. Through close collaboration with the Provincial Government of Aklan and industry partners, LGU-Malay continues to strengthen Boracay’s reputation as a premier cruise destination while championing responsible and sustainable tourism practices.