3.28-M tourists visited Aurora last year

BALER, Aurora — The Province of Aurora has recorded a total of 3,280,741 tourist arrivals last year, signifying the booming tourism sector of the area.

According to Provincial Tourism Officer Ana Riza S. Mendoza, this marks a significant milestone for its thriving tourism industry.

She added that among the towns, Dipaculao emerged as the top destination with a record of 1,218,520 visitors.

The town also recorded 1,008,366 same-day tourists and 210,154 overnight travelers. Dingalan and Baler followed with notable visitor numbers.

The top three tourist destinations include the Dingalan Landmark with 202,033 visitors, Dinadiawan Beach in Dipaculao with 168,319 visitors, and Baler Signage with 124,631 tourists.

Other popular destinations were the Baul Falls, Amper Beach and Sabang Beach.

Mendoza expressed optimism for 2025, citing growing interest from both local and international travelers.

“The impressive 2024 numbers prove Aurora is cementing its place as a premier travel destination,” she said.

The province also earned seven awards at the Department of Tourism (DoT) 3’s (Central Luzon) Tourism Recognitions for Excellence and Sustainability Awards 2024.

Aurora won the Grand Prize for the DoT Kaagapay Award and the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Advocate Award for institutionalizing the “Mabuhay Gesture.”

It also secured runner-up spots in four categories, among them the Most Outstanding Culinary Tourism Program and Most Creative Tourism Marketing Collateral.

Mendoza credited the achievements to collaborative efforts among local government units, stakeholders and private sector partners.

“These awards reflect our dedication to promoting Aurora as a leading tourist destination,” she said.

With sustained support, Aurora aims to further enhance its tourism programs, ensuring sustainable growth and improved visitor experiences in the years ahead.