Subic Bay Freeport welcomed a record-breaking 408,800 visitors during the recent Holy Week, surpassing last year’s 367,228 tourist count by 14.8%, according to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño shared that the surge in visitors significantly boosted hotel occupancy rates, maintaining a near-full 99% throughout the period.
San Roque Chapel, one of the oldest chapels in the country, has become a favorite crowd-drawer for devout Catholics who visit frequently during the Holy Week as it drew an estimated crowd of 10,350.
“San Roque Chapel has been a quiet refuge for devout Catholics who spend their vacations here. We are glad that Catholic traditions are religiously conducted there such as processions, the pabasa, and Salubong,” Aliño mused.
The SBMA Tourism Department also noted that the Food Fest at the Boardwalk played a major role in attracting larger crowds this year. “The Food Fest offered expanded food choices, improved activities, and entertainment, giving visitors more reasons to stay longer and explore,” said SBMA Tourism Department Manager Mary Jamelle Camba.
Meanwhile, data gathered from Information Centers showed a slight decrease in on-site inquiries—only 97 this year compared to 108 last year—indicating that improved digital access and better area navigation likely enhanced the visitor experience.
Vehicular accidents also decreased, with only three incidents this year compared to last year’s four. Meanwhile, ambulance runs increased by five due to the high heat index.
