Camotes’ tourism charm hit by transportation infrastructure woes

CEBU, Philippines - The tourism potential of Camotes Island as one of Cebu's jewels is stuck with problems on proper transportation infrastructure and shortage of power supply, a town official said.

"Potential big investments for hotels/resorts are on standby, nothing is moving until we have the proper transportation access, and instability of power supply will be addressed," said town mayor Luciano Rama Jr., in an interview.

Camotes Islands comprises three major islands and one minor islet, divided between four municipalities. On Poro Island are the municipalities of Poro and Tudela. Pacijan Islands sole municipality is San Francisco. Ponson Island's sole municipality is Pilar.

According to Rama, he has already informed Cebu Provincial Governor Hilario Davide III, about this problem and hopes that the Cebu provincial office will facilitate immediate action in coordination with NGCP (National Grid Corporation of the Philippines).

Likewise, the pending construction of the airstrip on the island is direly needed, as the island is gaining interest from both local and international tourists, after it landed in the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine as one of the best islands.

At present, capitalists and investors are doing land-banking on the island in preparation for the right time, the Mayor said.

Rama is also advocating for full entry of Renewable Energy investors to aid its power supply. Currently, there is a solar energy generation, but its not enough to provide the entire energy requirement of the four municipalities of Camotes.

"I also asked the Governor to provide us modular generator. It’s being done in Luzon, so it can be done in our island," he said.

Cebu's travel specialists reported stronger interest among local and foreign tourists towards the northern corridor in Cebu province in the recent months.

As the southern part of Cebu, which boosts of Cebu's heritage, whale shark watching, among others, tourists are likewise intrigued of the northern charm of Cebu.

Cebu's northern trail, although it has been known for its white beach islands, caves, cold and hot springs, waterfalls, and eco-tourism attractions, travelers still have to explore some more hidden allures in the northern part, and Camotes is one of the most attractive islands in the province, according to Cebu Association of Tour Operation Specialists (CATOS) president Alice Queblatin. (FREEMAN)