TACLOBAN CITY – Samar welcomed another wave of international visitors on Friday, July 3, as the expedition cruise ship Heritage Adventurer returned to the province, bringing 110 foreign tourists for a day-long immersion into the island’s world-class eco-tourism destinations, local cuisine, and community-based tourism experiences.

The Heritage Adventurer made its second visit to Samar, carrying 110 guests from Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the United States, along with 14 expedition team members, underscoring the province’s growing appeal as an international expedition cruise destination.

Hosted by the Municipality of Paranas, the visitors embarked on a carefully curated shore excursion that highlighted Samar’s rich biodiversity, natural attractions, and cultural heritage.

The itinerary featured eco-trail bird watching, a visit to the Arboretum, and a culinary experience through the Secret Kitchens of Samar wellness stop at the Torpedo Boat Ride Visitor Center, where guests sampled local delicacies while learning about Samar’s culinary traditions.

The excursion offered international travelers a firsthand experience of the province’s pristine forests, unique wildlife, and community-based tourism initiatives, while showcasing the warmth and hospitality of the Samarnon people.

Local tourism officials said the return of the Heritage Adventurer signals growing confidence among international expedition cruise operators in Samar’s ability to provide safe, sustainable, and high-quality tourism experiences.

The successful port call was made possible through the coordinated efforts of local government units, tourism stakeholders, national government agencies, and host communities that worked together to ensure a memorable visit for the international guests.
The Heritage Adventurer first called on Samar in June 2025, marking the province’s entry into the international expedition cruise circuit. Its return this year reflects Samar’s sustained efforts to position itself as one of the country’s emerging cruise tourism destinations through the promotion of sustainable tourism, environmental conservation, and authentic cultural experiences.

Provincial tourism stakeholders expect the repeat visit to generate greater international exposure for Samar, stimulate the local economy, and create more livelihood opportunities for communities engaged in eco-tourism, food tourism, transportation, and other tourism-related enterprises.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY—In line with its 19th Charter Anniversary, the Borongan City government brought essential public services directly to the people through a Serbisyo Caravan that benefited more than 1,600 residents at the City Plaza.

The event underscored the local government’s commitment to public service under the theme, “Gugma ha Katawhan, Serbisyo nga Waray Undang—ha Krisis man o Kamurayawan.”

This year’s celebration placed greater emphasis on service delivery rather than traditional festivities, with more than 30 government services offered free of charge.

A major highlight of the activity was the job fair, which opened about 1,500 employment opportunities and enabled same-day hiring for qualified applicants.

Health services from the City Health Office benefited over 500 individuals through medical consultations, laboratory tests, free medicines, and dental care. The City Civil Registry Office also served 435 residents through free registration and other civil registry transactions.

The City Agriculturist’s Office assisted 166 farmers and fisherfolk by distributing rice seeds, fertilizers, tilapia fingerlings, and conducting technical briefings.

Other services included a candle-making workshop facilitated by the City Cooperatives and Development Office as part of its livelihood program. The City Social Welfare and Development Office also provided free haircut, massage, manicure, and pedicure services.
The City Environment and Natural Resources Office showcased honey products from the DENR ERDB-ARDEC Integrated Floriculture and Apiculture Project, which were reportedly sold out by the end of the event.

Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda said the initiative reflects the city government’s commitment to bringing services closer to the people and ensuring equitable access to basic government programs.

On the same day, the city government also honored outstanding Boronganons during the annual Pasidungog Awards held at the Mayor Luis Capito Cultural Stage.

The awards recognized more than 200 individuals and institutions, including government employees, students, athletes, barangays, and top taxpayers who contributed to the city’s growth and achievements.

In his message, Mayor Agda thanked awardees for their dedication and also acknowledged House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan for authoring Republic Act No. 9394, which converted Borongan into a component city in 2007.

Honorees included winners of the Inter-Agency Sports Fest, long-serving government employees, exemplary barangays, EVRAA medalists, student achievers, board exam topnotchers, and honest tricycle drivers, among others.

Awards were presented by local officials and representatives from various government offices led by Atty. Romeo Alexis Devora, Vice Mayor Emmanuel Tiu Sonco, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and other officials.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)