Alaminos City unveils Holy Week island policy

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

In anticipation of the significant tourist influx during Holy Week, the Alaminos City government has announced a strategic “drop and pick up” policy tailored for visitors to the renowned Hundred Islands National Park (HINP). This initiative aims to streamline the exploration of the park’s 17 islands, ensuring a smooth and organized visitation process for the expected 10,000 daily tourists from March 28 to 31.

Rose Aruelo, the assistant head of the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, detailed in a recent interview that tourists will have the opportunity to visit three specific islands each day. Visitors will select one island for an extended stay and coordinate with their boatman for a scheduled pick-up time. Boat operators are required to strictly adhere to these timings, with penalties in place for non-compliance.

To further facilitate this policy, rental fees for approximately 1,000 boats, each with varying passenger capacities, will see a reduction. Prices will be adjusted as follows: small boats will now cost PHP1,400, reduced from PHP1,600; medium boats will be priced at PHP1,800, down from PHP2,000; and large boats will be available for PHP2,000, a decrease from the usual PHP2,400.

The policy aims not only to manage the crowd more efficiently but also to enhance the visiting experience at popular islands such as Pilgrimage Island, known for its Stations of the Cross and the iconic Christ the Savior statue, Quezon Island, and Governor’s Island. In addition to island hopping, the HINP offers a variety of activities including kayaking, helmet diving, and the thrilling hurricane ride, which involves tourists riding a round rubber boat pulled by another boat.

Adding to the park’s allure is the latest attraction, a bonsai display located on Ramos Island adjacent to Pilgrimage Island. This unique feature adds another layer of interest to the diverse natural and cultural offerings of the HINP, promising an enriching experience for all visitors during the busy Holy Week period.

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