This post was originally published on here
BOLINAO, Pangasinan — The coastal municipality of Bolinao has solidified its position as a premier destination in northern Luzon, posting a sustained surge in tourist arrivals and overnight stays during the recent Holy Week break, with momentum carrying through successive long weekends.
The latest figures released by the Department of Tourism (DOT) underscored this growth, ranking Bolinao as the top destination in Region 1 for overnight guest arrivals in 2025 with approximately 248,942 visitors, surpassing established tourism hubs such as Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte and San Fernando City in La Union.
Industry observers attribute the town’s strong performance to a convergence of natural assets and policy-driven initiatives that enhance both visitor experience and local economic participation.
Central to this is the local government-led “Mangan A Tamu” food strip, which has emerged as a defining feature of the Bolinao tourism experience.
The initiative has drawn widespread praise from tourists for offering affordable yet high-quality local cuisine, with many noting that food prices remain among the most reasonable in the region without compromising taste or authenticity. This pricing model has not only improved visitor satisfaction but also encouraged longer stays.
Crucially, the program reflects a broader governance approach under Jesus Celeste, whose administration has earned positive public approval for implementing a zero-collection policy on food stall operators.
By removing rental and related fees, the local government enabled small vendors to thrive while maintaining fair pricing for tourists—an approach now being recognized by other business sectors as both viable and replicable.
Complementing these efforts are the ongoing infrastructure developments designed to sustain economic growth.
The municipality is fast-tracking the construction of a modern public market, envisioned to be comparable to facilities in Bacnotan, while its convention center project, now nearing 80 percent completion, is expected to position Bolinao as a key events destination in Pangasinan.
Tourism activity also aligns with Bolinao’s cultural calendar.
This year’s Mangunguna Festival—celebrating the town’s fishing heritage—gained added significance as April 17, 2026 was declared a special non-working day under Presidential Proclamation 1212.
The observance not only boosted local travel but also highlighted the municipality’s identity as a fishing community, with festivities showcasing the traditions, livelihood and ingenuity of its fisherfolk.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, approximately 200 balikbayans from various parts of the world and across the Philippines returned home to Bolinao to take part in the “Night of the Balikbayan” on April 17.
Their presence not only underscored strong cultural ties among Bolinao natives abroad but also contributed to the spike in local tourism activity during the festival period.
The town’s rising profile was further affirmed on April 11, when over 30 members of a Quezon City-based travel and tours association conducted an immersion visit.
Participants explored Bolinao’s white sand beaches and floating restaurants offering native seafood and shell dishes.
Kath Portugal, head of the organization, expressed surprise at the destination’s breadth of offerings, noting that experiences they previously associated with established Visayas destinations are already present in Bolinao—often at more competitive rates.
The group described the municipality’s tourism programs as “underrated,” citing its blend of scenic attractions, accessible pricing and diverse tourism activities.
With supporting figures from the DOT, Bolinao is now viewed not only as a leisure hotspot but as a model for inclusive and sustainable tourism development in the region.
