Thousands of Cruise Visitors Arrive in Northern Luzon

Ilocos Norte welcomed nearly 23,000 international cruise passengers during the first half of 2026, establishing Currimao Port as an emerging entry hub for Northern Luzon, according to a PNA report.

Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos delivered the figures during her State of the Province Address, highlighting how steady cruise ship arrivals provided income for tour operators, transport services, restaurants, and small businesses.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has designated cruise tourism as a core national strategy, introducing streamlined entry rules and seaport upgrades. Under the Philippine Ports Authority modernization program, Currimao is recognized as a strategic cruise port alongside:

• Manila
• Salomague
• Bohol
• El Nido

Local micro-entrepreneurs and tourism workers reported immediate financial benefits from the increased vessel calls.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity to sell our local products to cruise visitors at the Currimao port,” said Agnes Asuncion, a local fruit vendor who expanded her dragon fruit and coconut production area to build value-adding goods.

Tour guide Karen Lucas also credited the government’s industry support for expanding local employment choices.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to become a tour guide. It is a rewarding experience because it gives me financial freedom and I travel to places for free while I get to meet people from all over the world,” Lucas said.

The ongoing port modernization plan aims to secure additional cruise itineraries and increase long-term investments across Northern Luzon seaports.

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SOURCE: PNA