Parts of Caramoan closed to public for 'Survivor' filming

MANILA, Philippines -- Parts of the Caramoan Islands in Camarines Sur will be closed to the public from mid-April to July to accommodate filming of reality TV show "Survivor".

According to a notice from the provincial government posted by Bicol Standard, Gota Village Resort and the islands of Sabitang Laya, Lahos, Matukad, Catanhawan, Pitogo Bay, Tupan Lagoon, Inayun-ayunan, Tayak and Mantapas will be closed to the public from April 15 to July 22.

Also off limits to the public are parts of Lahuy, Paniman ricefield and the Sohoton River.

The provincial government said this is part of Camarines Sur's "efforts to further support tourism development and promote Caramoan internationally, which has created and continues to create jobs and livelihood to hundreds of constituents in the province for several years now."

A representative of the provincial tourism office told Philstar.com, however, that the filming will not close off the entire area to tourists.

"Some parts lang naman, pero marami pa ring bukas, lalo na yung famous one... Manlawi, Cotivas, Tinago... open siya," the representative at the Manila liaison office said in a text message.