Tourist influx seen in Ilocos Norte amidst international flights suspension

Paoay Church (Ching Dee / PCI)

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte — – Amidst the temporary suspension of international flights to Ilocos Norte, Department of Tourism (DOT)-Laoag sub office has reported an influx of tourists here, which usually peaks up in time for the Yuletide season.

Ma. Milagros R. Gonzales, provincial director of the DOT said several hotels and other accredited tourism accommodations in the province are now fully booked even at the early onset of December.

According to Gonzales, the month of December is usually the peak season for hotels as tourists both foreign and domestic prefer to visit Ilocos Norte over other provinces apparently for its good weather, natural and historical landscapes including its growing man-made attractions here.

The Department of Tourism, however, hopes that international flights would soon resume at the Laoag International Airport to further boost tourism arrivals here.

Based on record, Asian tourists account for the biggest number of tourists visiting this prime tourist destination of the north.

Meanwhile, Gonzales also reported that the DOT is regularly monitoring the accreditation of shops, tourism establishments and resorts. She added that the new Ilocos Norte tourism brochures are now ready for distribution.

Accredited tour guides are also readily available should tourists need their services.

In preparation for the expected tourist influx this Christmas season, P/Supt. Jeffrey Gorospe, police chief of Laoag City said the PNP is now on full alert status.

Earlier this month, Gorospe has intensified their information campaign against illegal activities such as the increasing incidents of robbery and car thefts this season.

To boost police visibility, the PNP set up Police Assistance Centers (PACs) in various tourism destinations here to assist tourists.