Dinagat Islands strengthens sustainable tourism efforts as visitor arrivals reach 1.1M
By Nora L. Molde
Dinagat Island’s drive aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to promote sustainable tourism as a driver of inclusive economic growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda.
During the Kapihan sa PIA on June 29, Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. said, tourist arrivals in Dinagat Islands reached 1.1 million in 2025, highlighting the province’s rising popularity as a tourism destination.
“We are looking into the benefits of increased tourist arrivals. Our goal is to ensure that Dinagatnons benefit from the growth of the tourism industry,” Gov. Demerey said.
He shared that the provincial government has been conducting tourism seminars, accrediting homestays, and promoting safe accommodation standards to improve the quality of tourism services, while creating livelihood opportunities for local residents.
He emphasized that making Dinagat Islands a globally recognized destination requires the collective efforts of the government, local communities, tourism stakeholders, and the private sector, reflecting the national government’s whole-of-society approach to tourism development.
To support tourism management, the provincial government has established the IJN Yamashiro People’s Hall, which has become a popular stop for visitors. The facility also serves as a venue for monitoring tourist arrivals, helping strengthen tourism planning, policy formulation, and service delivery.
Inviting more travelers to visit the province, Demerey encouraged tourists, saying, “Complete your adventures, come to Dinagat Islands.”
The governor also stressed that tourism development must always be balanced with environmental protection. He said the provincial government continues to coordinate closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other concerned agencies to conserve the province’s natural resources while promoting its tourist destinations.
With the continued increase in visitor arrivals, the provincial government is implementing measures to improve solid waste management, ensure access to safe water, and strengthen environmental protection initiatives to preserve the province’s natural attractions for future generations. These initiatives support the Marcos administration’s directive to pursue climate resilience and sustainable resource management while advancing local economic development.
Demerey also called on the public to practice responsible use of social media by sharing accurate information that promotes responsible tourism, protects the environment, and showcases the province’s attractions in a positive and truthful manner.
He urged tourists and Dinagatnons to work together in sustaining tourism growth while preserving the natural beauty of Dinagat Islands, emphasizing that responsible tourism is a shared responsibility that will ensure the province remains a premier destination for generations to come. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
