In the heart of the Visayas, the Loboc River winds through the lush Boholano countryside, offering tourists a glimpse of the Philippines’ natural splendor aboard its floating restaurants.
But a recent surge in the cost of this idyllic experience has unleashed a wave of public frustration, casting a shadow over the community’s economic recovery efforts.
Effective next month, the price for the Loboc River Cruise will leap from 850 to 1,000 pesos, a move that local tourism authorities deem necessary to preserve the quality of service amid escalating operational expenses.
This increase arrives as the region still contends with the economic fallout from Typhoon Odette, the post-pandemic recovery efforts, and ongoing debates over unauthorized constructions in the iconic Chocolate Hills.
The hike has provoked a torrent of criticism on social media platforms, with many denouncing the decision as poorly timed and excessive.
The discontent is palpable among residents whose livelihoods are intertwined with the influx of visitors, as they fear the augmented costs may deter the very tourists upon whom their prosperity depends.
In a statement addressing the outcry, the Association of Loboc Floating Restaurant Operators (ALFRO) and the Loboc local government have articulated the rationale behind the augmented rates:
“The price increase for Loboc River Cruise is a result of several factors that we feel are essential,” the statement reads.
“Both the LGU Loboc & ALFRO are striving to elevate the Loboc River Cruise to global competitiveness. The escalation in operational costs, including the price of fresh ingredients sourced locally to ensure top-notch culinary offerings, has been significant. Our commitment to bolstering our local suppliers is unwavering, even as they grapple with their own rising expenses,” the statement reads.
The statement further details investments in a state-of-the-art commissary to guarantee food safety and hygiene, alongside initiatives to enhance staff training and provide equitable wages in response to the increasing cost of living.
Moreover, ALFRO has invested in the refurbishment and expansion of their fleet, including the construction of 10 new boats to replace those lost to Typhoon Odette, and the restoration of the typhoon-damaged docking port.
“We understand that price increases are never welcome news,” the statement concludes. “We wish to assure you that this decision was not made lightly. We, too, share the desire of our fellow Boholanos to take pride in the Loboc River Cruise experience. Thank you and Mabuhay!”
As the community grapples with the implications of the rate hike, the future of the Loboc River Cruise — a symbol of Bohol’s tourism appeal — hangs in the balance, according to one travel blogger.
Will the promise of enhanced services and infrastructure justify the increased financial burden on tourists, or will the tranquil waters of the Loboc witness a decline in the gentle wake of its floating restaurants? The answer lies on the horizon, the blogger said.