It’s a dream whispered among travelers for years: a seamless journey through the heart of the Philippines, where the islands of the Visayas are not just separate destinations but chapters in a single, epic story. For too long, however, that story felt disjointed, with logistical hurdles and connectivity challenges keeping the full narrative just out of reach. But now, that’s all about to change.

After years of meticulous planning and navigating complex challenges, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has finally pulled back the curtain on its most ambitious project yet. On Saturday, public officials and private stakeholders gathered at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City to launch the groundbreaking One Visayas tourism circuits. This isn’t just another travel campaign; it’s the dawn of a new era for Philippine tourism, a promise of improved connectivity designed to unlock the region’s full, breathtaking potential for both local and international adventurers.

DOT Western Visayas Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez confirmed that the launch signals a monumental leap forward. For the first time, the entire Visayas region is being presented as a unified, interconnected paradise, ready to serve travelers better than ever before. This initiative, which DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Tiopes noted has been an aspiration for several administrations, has finally overcome the obstacles of the past. The message is clear: the Visayas is more than ready for you.

Three masterfully curated tour circuits are leading this new charge: the UNESCO Heritage and Gastronomy Trails, the Diving Expeditions in the Visayas, and the Heritage Trails and Cultural Discoveries. These are just the initial offerings, with Rodriguez promising that much more is on the way as attractions across the islands continue to be enhanced.

Unlocking the Secrets of Visayan Heritage

For those who travel not just to see but to feel and taste, the UNESCO Heritage and Gastronomy Trails circuit is a journey into the soul of the Philippines. This tour is a masterclass in history and flavor, weaving through sites recognized for their global significance and kitchens celebrated for their culinary traditions. Your adventure will take you across the vibrant landscapes of Negros Island and Western Visayas, covering the elegant cities of Bacolod and Iloilo. From there, it moves to the resilient spirit of Tacloban and Samar in Eastern Visayas before culminating in the iconic destinations of Cebu and Bohol in Central Visayas.

Imagine standing before the St. Thomas of Villanova Parish Church, famously known as the Miagao Church. This isn’t just an old building; it’s a fortress of faith, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricate baroque designs that tell stories of a bygone era. You can feel the history in its coral-stone walls. Then, journey to Bacolod, the “City of Smiles,” where the scent of grilled chicken inasal fills the air, a culinary experience that defines Negrense culture. In Cebu, you’ll discover why it’s hailed as the home of the world’s best lechon, while in Iloilo, you can savor a bowl of authentic La Paz Batchoy, a noodle soup that warms the soul. This trail ensures that every stop is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

In addition, the Heritage Trails and Cultural Discoveries circuit offers a more intimate exploration of the region’s unique identity. This path allows travelers to immerse themselves in local customs, moving beyond the typical tourist spots to connect with the true heartbeat of the islands. The itinerary is a cultural tapestry, featuring the historical richness of Cebu, the gentle charm of Dumaguete, and the cool mountain air of Valencia. It continues through the colonial grandeur of Iloilo, the seafood capital of Capiz, the sweet mangoes of Guimaras, and the historic shores of Tacloban. Each destination offers a unique window into the Filipino way of life, from vibrant local festivals to the quiet dignity of ancestral homes.

Plunging into the Visayan Deep

For adventurers who seek wonder beneath the waves, the Diving Expeditions in the Visayas circuit is your ticket to some of the planet’s most stunning underwater kingdoms. The Philippines is the global center of marine biodiversity, and this tour showcases the crown jewels of its aquatic treasures. It’s designed for everyone, from first-time divers ready to take their first breath underwater to seasoned experts looking for their next great thrill.

This expedition will guide you through the pristine waters of Iloilo and the untouched beauty of Nogas Island in Antique. Furthermore, you’ll travel to the world-renowned dive sites of Bohol, including the incredible underwater gardens of Balicasag Island, where turtles glide gracefully over vibrant coral walls. The journey also takes you to the sapphire depths of Southern Leyte and Limasawa Island, where the gentle giants of the sea, the whale sharks, are known to frequent Sogod Bay. This isn’t just diving; it’s an opportunity to witness a world teeming with life, color, and unparalleled natural beauty. The Visayan waters are a liquid paradise, and this circuit provides the map to its most spectacular secrets.

Getting there has also never been easier. In terms of air travel, connectivity is at an all-time high, with numerous flights now operating between the Visayan provinces and the country’s main gateways like Manila. Cebu Pacific alone services nine key airports in its Intra-Visayas network, seamlessly connecting Cebu, Bacolod, Calbayog, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Boracay, Tacloban, and Bohol. The old challenge of island hopping has been replaced by a network of accessible, reliable travel options.

With the routes charted and the guides ready, the long-held dream of a unified Visayan travel experience has finally become a reality. The islands are calling, their stories waiting to be discovered, their flavors waiting to be savored, and their beauty waiting to be witnessed.

Now that these hidden pathways and connected journeys have been fully unveiled, the only real question left to answer is… which adventure will you embark on first?

By Jaja Agpalo