TACLOBAN CITY – Visitors at the famed Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte, need to pay adjustment entrance fees.
This after the municipal government approved a resolution for this purpose.
The new rates, which cover entrance rate, pump boat, and cottage rentals, will take effect on Jan.16.
“The ordinance aims to ensure the sustainable development and management of eco-tourism facilities within the municipality and to support the preservation and enhancement of our natural resources while improving the overall eco-tourism experience for visitors,” the advisory posted on the official social media account of the Palompon local government said.
Based on the posted rate, the new fee for foreign tourists costs P1,000 for a day tour or P1,500 for an overnight stay.
The entrance fee for non-Palompon residents is P300 for a day tour or P450 for an overnight stay while the locals would only pay P100 for a day tour and P150 for an overnight stay.
Non-Palompon students would pay P40 to P80 for a day tour and P60 up to P120, for an overnight stay.
Students from the town are to pay less than their counterparts coming from other areas, ranging from P5 to P20 for a day tour and P20 to P50 for an overnight stay.
The amounts vary depending on the levels of the students.
Senior Citizens who are not from Palompon town will have to pay an entrance fee worth P240 for a day tour or P360 for an overnight stay. While elderlies from the town are free of the fee.
Those who wanted to rent the entire island will have to pay P300,000 for 24-hour use.
The pump boat rate going to the island costs P4,500 for one to 20 passengers, P5,000 for 21 to 25 passengers, P5,500 for 26 to 30 passengers, and P6,000 for 31 to 35 passengers.
Cottage rates range from P375 to P1, 000.
“All concerned individuals, establishments, and organizations are advised to familiarize themselves with the approved revised fee,” the advisory said.
The LGU also advises tourists who want to visit the island to make a prior reservation by contacting their number at 09950276488 or sending them a message at their Facebook account LGUPalompon and at their website www.palompon-leyte.gov.ph for them to have a hassle-free visit.
Kalanggaman Island is considered to be Leyte’s tourism jewels serving hosts to hundreds of tourists and is one of the top generators of income for the local government of Palompon.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
