ANTIQUE — Festivals emerged as a major driver of tourism growth in Antique as tourist arrivals surged in February this year, according to the Office of the Provincial Tourism Officer (OPTO).
Data from the OPTO quarterly report showed that the province recorded 306,368 overnight and day tourists in February, significantly higher than the 110,951 visitors logged in January. Tourist arrivals declined to 118,998 in March and further dropped to 45,917 in April.
Provincial officials attributed the February surge largely to the series of festivals celebrated across the province during the month.
Among the major crowd-drawing events was the Feast of St. Blaise in the municipality of Sebaste, where thousands of devotees traveled to seek healing and protection from Señor San Blas.
The report also cited Tibiao’s Maninihon Festival and Antique’s various tourist attractions as contributing factors behind the influx of visitors.
Gov. Paolo Javier, who also serves as Provincial Tourism Officer, said the province’s festivals continue to strengthen the local tourism industry by showcasing Antique’s culture, faith, and natural attractions.
“Our festivals continue to play a key role in driving tourism and supporting local livelihoods. Samtang may mga bisita kita, duro gid nga mga negosyo ang makabenepisyo,” Javier said.
Despite the strong turnout during festival season, OPTO reported a decline in overnight stays in 2025. Records showed 189,103 overnight visitors this year, lower than the 210,239 recorded in 2024.
Tourism officials attributed the decrease to typhoons, travel disruptions, and reduced accommodation bookings.
In contrast, day-tour visits increased significantly, reaching 2,305,735 in 2025 compared to 1,960,208 in 2024. The rise indicates a growing interest among travelers in Antique’s natural attractions, cultural heritage sites, and tourism activities.
Javier said the increase in day-tour visitors reflects the province’s growing appeal as a destination for nature-based and cultural experiences.
“We are optimistic that Antique will continue attracting more visitors as we strengthen tourism programs and improve accessibility to our destinations,” he said.
The province currently boasts 404 tourist attractions and destinations, with natural attractions and recreational sites among the most visited.
According to the 2025 tourist arrivals report, the top destinations included beach, mountain and inland resorts, natural hot and cold springs, natural parks, and mountainside attractions and trails.
The only cultural site that made it to the list of top destinations was the Bagtason Loom Weaving Association in Bugasong, known for producing Antique’s iconic patadyong fabric./PN
