Aklan Retains Lead in Western Visayas Tourism with ₱42.9 Billion Receipts in 2024

By: John Dela Cruz

Boracay drives sustained growth and investor confidence

KALIBO, Aklan — The Province of Aklan recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals in Western Visayas for 2024, with 2,202,023 visitors and an estimated ₱42.929 billion in tourism receipts, according to data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VI as of March 2025.

Aklan was followed by Iloilo City with 1,001,028 arrivals, and Bacolod City with 833,345. Capiz registered the fastest growth in the region at 43%, while Antique posted a 40% increase from 2023. The overall tourism performance of Western Visayas reached 5.9 million arrivals in 2024, including 603,000 foreign visitors, among them overseas Filipinos.

Boracay Surpasses Pre-Pandemic Levels

Boracay Island accounted for 2,077,977 tourist arrivals in 2024, surpassing its 2019 pre-pandemic record of 2,034,599. Domestic tourism led the recovery, reaching 1.6 million local visitors, while foreign arrivals totaled 412,000, lower than the nearly one million recorded in 2019.

Industry analysts attribute the strong domestic performance to improved accessibility, digital marketing, and continued confidence among local travelers. The decline in foreign arrivals is seen as a temporary effect of global travel shifts, with recovery expected to continue in 2025.

Regional Trends and Market Outlook

While Aklan’s overall growth was below 1%, officials noted this reflects a mature and capacity-driven market, particularly for Boracay, which continues to operate near full occupancy during peak seasons. The steady performance of Aklan’s tourism sector reinforces its position as a key driver of the regional economy.

As of August 2025, Boracay recorded 1.5 million tourist arrivals, positioning the island to meet or exceed its 2 million target for the year. The outlook for 2025 remains positive, supported by ongoing airport upgrades, resort expansions, and investment in sustainable tourism facilities.

Local business groups have expressed optimism about continued investor interest in hospitality, food service, and tourism support industries within the province.