MARIPIPI, Biliran — The third port call of an international cruise ship to this island town has reinforced the local government’s confidence that it is now ready to welcome more visitors and scale up its tourism industry.
Mayor Joseph Caingcoy said the Tuesday (Dec.16) visit of the Coral Geographer, an Australian expedition cruise ship, reflects growing international interest in Maripipi as an emerging destination in Eastern Visayas.
“For 2026 onward, we are looking not only at foreign tourists but also at offering tour packages for local travelers to further level up our tourism activities,” Caingcoy said.
Maripipi is one of the eight municipalities of Biliran province and the only one located off the mainland. The island is known for its natural attractions, including pristine beaches, forested landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. It is also home to Sambawan Island, one of Biliran’s fast-emerging tourism sites.
Local officials said increased tourist arrivals are expected to generate livelihood opportunities for residents and attract investors, contributing to the town’s economic growth.
“More tourists mean additional sources of income for our people. Some can earn as tour guides or through other livelihood activities,” Caingcoy said. He added that the municipal government is strengthening its partnership with barangays to ensure communities are prepared to host visitors and showcase local attractions and culture.
On Tuesday, 76 passengers from the Coral Geographer were welcomed by residents as they toured the island and immersed themselves in local traditions and daily life.
The visitors began their tour at Candol Beach, where they observed and participated in nito weaving, a traditional craft practiced by residents of Barangay Agutay and passed down through generations.
They were also treated to local delicacies such as biko (sweet rice cake), kabkab (a crispy snack made from grated cassava), banana chips, and nilupak. Some guests even joined in the preparation process, including pounding bananas using a mortar and pestle.
The group later visited Barangay Cansibang, the town’s pottery center, where they learned how clay collected from the island’s mountains is transformed into traditional earthenware.
For lunch, the visitors sampled local dishes including paksiw nga isda (fish stewed in vinegar), humba (braised pork), adobong baboy (pork adobo), puto nga bilanghoy (cassava cake), and lechon (roasted pig).
The tour concluded with a visit to Sambawan Island, an emerging tourism destination known for its clear waters, white sand beaches, rock formations, and rich marine life. The island features hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a marine sanctuary ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Local officials said the successful visit underscores Maripipi’s potential as a sustainable island destination and strengthens efforts to position the town on both the domestic and international tourism map.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
