Traditional tours still top tourists’ Sinulog itinerary

CEBU, Philippines - Aside from island hopping tours, traditional tour packages still top tourists’ itinerary during the Sinulog season, a travel and tour official said.

Cebu City day tour, twin-city (Cebu and Lapu-Lapu) tour, Cebu highlands, southern and northern heritage tours, whale shark watching, Cebu-Bohol packages still lead the pack of booked packages availed of by both domestic and international tourists.

  Cebu Association Travel Operators (CATO) president Edilberto Mendoza Jr., said side trips of most devotees still include these traditional routes, as well as those tourists who are here to simply witness the fun, and celebration of the festival.

  According to Mendoza, younger ones usually join the festivities, while the mature ones would prefer to stay in the resorts to stay away from the crowds.

Earlier, Alice Queblatin, vice president of travel and tours for Tourism Congress, said participating in the fluvial parade is the latest interest among visiting families from other countries.

  Either way, the Sinulog has a great impact on Cebu's local economy, added Mendoza.

  According to Mendoza, ever since the festival that Cebu celebrates every 3rd Sunday of January has always been an effective tourists drawer for Cebu.

  "Visitors both local and international are looking forward to coming here not only to experience the best things that Cebu has to offer but also to experience our rich religious and cultural heritage that is highlighted in the festival," he added. (FREEMAN)