VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND RESOURCE PROTECTION (VERP) – BANTAYAN ISLAND, CEBU

(draft)

VERP is a structured framework within which to conduct a systematic, thoughtful, traceable, and
defensive analysis of carrying capacity, and provides the National Park Service with a “program that
works” to manage the carrying capacity of the national park system. Bantayan Island is well known for its
ethical tourism methods, emphasizing the protection of fragile ecosystems and encouraging genuine
cultural encounters. Visitors are cordially invited to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of the
island by its friendly locals. Strict laws safeguard the island's fragile ecosystems, and responsible tourism
providers give priority to eco-friendly and morally grounded activities. Travelers might find optimism in
Bantayan Island's dedication to sustainable tourism practices. During the pandemic, Bantayan Island has
a limitation and strict rule in their island while operating the business. Some of the rules that must be
followed are;

 Only 50% of the pump boat passenger capacity is permitted

 Water-related activities (swimming, kayaking, island hopping) shall only be allowed until 6:00 pm
 Food and drinks are not allowed on the beach (to prevent littering and causing the marine species
to put in danger)
 No drinking of liquor and no smoking in public places
 Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed, use refillable water tumblers

When it comes to transportation, there are ferry services from Hagnaya to Santa Fe and Estancia, Iloilo,
and Sagay to the municipal port of Bantayan, which leads to Bantayan Island. Rarely do charter flights
land at Bantayan Airport, often from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The Bantayan municipal port
handles the shipping of goods, and a small dock in Baigad can hold small pump boats. Motor tricycles are
available for longer trips, whereas tricycles are offered for shorter trips inside population centers. With
rooftop goods stowage, larger jeepneys can carry up to 20 passengers, while smaller motorcycle-sidecar
combos can carry up to 4 passengers.

According to the Municipal Planning and Development Officer (MPDO), the influx of tourists was
increasing by 100% per year, maybe more: from 60,000 tourists recorded in 2016 to 300,000 in 2018.
Water access and management is the main concern of the municipality as it affects the tourism, social,
and health sectors.

References:

https://bantayanisland.info/information/about/

https://billionbricks.org/updates/bantayan-island-successfully-promoting-sustainable-tourism-in-the-philippines

https://www.icsc.ngo/governance-for-resilience/santa-fe-bantayan-island-cebu/