Tourism leaders in Daanbantayan are sounding the alarm over potential economic fallout. While visitor numbers remain stable for now, experts caution that prolonged expensive fuel prices and overseas conflicts could severely impact the local economy if they persist beyond two months.
A Growing Concern for Local Businesses
During the "Our Cebu!" tourism exhibition held on Friday, March 13, 2026, local business owners voiced their mounting worries. This comes after the town recently endured a 6.9-magnitude earthquake and typhoon Tino, adding to the challenges.
Jameson Rey Acuna, owner of Divergems Diving Center on Malapascua Island, noted that the effects are just beginning to surface. Although his boats continue to operate, he has already experienced booking cancellations mere days after international conflicts erupted on February 28.
"Maybe for now it’s okay, but if it continues like this, our guests may gradually decrease," Acuna stated. He elaborated that many foreign divers might opt to return to their home countries rather than extend their vacations amid global uncertainties.
The Problem with Prices
Beyond global news, the escalating cost of doing business poses a significant threat. Acuna highlighted that diesel prices in Daanbantayan have surged from P60 to approximately P90 per liter.
For dive shops, this increase is particularly problematic because pumpboats require substantial fuel to reach prime diving locations. Business owners emphasize they cannot easily pass these costs onto tourists through price hikes, making it difficult to cope with what they describe as an "abrupt" rise in expenses.
Who is Visiting Daanbantayan?
Daanbantayan Tourism Officer Renlie Castillo reported that, currently, bookings remain robust. The town primarily attracts European tourists, with visitors from Germany, Spain, and France constituting the top three groups.
However, Castillo acknowledged the real threat looming. If the global situation begins to deter these European travelers, the local economy will undoubtedly suffer. He also mentioned that, as a commuter, he personally feels the pinch of soaring gas prices.
A History of Resilience
The tourism industry in Daanbantayan has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of past adversities:
- September 2025: A 6.9-magnitude earthquake led to a noticeable decline in visitor numbers.
- October 2025: Travel figures remained subdued as the town focused on recovery efforts.
- November – December 2025: Tourism peaked impressively, with up to 400 visitors arriving in a single day.
- Early 2026: Numbers stabilized, maintaining at least 200 visitors daily.
To bolster the industry, the local government is prioritizing training initiatives. They are educating boatmen and workers on food safety and enhanced service standards to ensure tourists enjoy exceptional experiences despite ongoing challenges.
Looking Toward the Future
Governor Pamela Baricuatro announced that the Provincial Government is actively exploring ways to support tourism workers and fisherfolk. Meetings with the Department of Energy are already underway to formulate a comprehensive plan.
Meanwhile, business owners like Acuna are advocating for more than just financial assistance. He pointed out that Malapascua Island still lacks a medical clinic, necessitating trips to the mainland for even minor health issues, which affects both residents and tourists.
The community remains hopeful, yet acutely aware that the coming months will be critical. Maintaining preparedness and fostering open communication between government authorities and business owners will be essential to keeping Daanbantayan’s renowned white sands and dive spots vibrant and bustling.
