Philippine province of Biliran to promote Higatangan Island as cruise destination

The first visit of a cruise ship to Higatangan Island in Naval, Biliran inspired its local government unit to step up its effort to draw more tourists to the picturesque island.

The local government reported on Monday, 4th November, that Australian expedition cruise firm Coral Expeditions’ Coral Geographer visited Higatangan Island on Thursday, 31st October, with 40 Australian guests on a cultural immersion experience.

In a statement, the local government said: “[We aspire] to promote [the island’s] esteemed attractions not only throughout the Philippines but also to a global audience, as Higatangan Island is truly a source of pride for us.”

Upon the guests’ arrival, locals offered them halo-halo, a popular local iced dessert, in coconut shells as a warm introduction to the locals’ hospitality, according to the Department of Tourism.

The guests joined the Tangan-Tangan Festival, where young dancers showcased Higatangan’s heritage. They also observed and experienced mat weaving, relaxing herbal massage, traditional fishing, traditional boodle fight, and relaxing on the iconic sandbar.

Higatangan is an island within Naval, the capital town of Biliran province. It has two villages, Mabini and Libertad, with a population of around 2,000 people.

The island is popular for its shifting sandbar; the Capilla del Mar, an underwater chapel with a 12-foot cross and eight benches that represent the eight municipalities of the province; a cliff diving spot; as well as areas suitable for scuba diving.