The 2026 whale shark interaction season in Pintuyan, Southern Leyte has attracted at least 9,842 local and foreign tourists, the local tourism office reported on Thursday.

The latest figures show an upward trend in visitor arrivals over the past three seasons, with 2,040 visitors in 2023, 3,894 in 2024 and 6,521 in 2025, reflecting growing interest in Pintuyan’s marine ecotourism offerings.

This year, the whale shark interaction season in Pintuyan officially ended on June 1. The local government has wrapped up its marine ecotourism activities to give the gentle giants time to migrate and to allow the ecosystem to recover.

The next whale shark interaction season is expected to open on Oct. 1.

Despite the temporary closure of whale shark interaction activities, Pintuyan town tourism officer Edilberto Alapag said visitors can still enjoy a variety of tourism experiences in the municipality.

These include pygmy squid catching at the port, jigging, daytime spearfishing, snorkeling, diving, mountain trekking, visits to two waterfalls, and trips to Mount Caningag Resort.

Alapag said the municipality remains committed to conservation efforts even as interaction tours are suspended.

“Whale shark tourism in Pintuyan follows strict guidelines that prohibit feeding, baiting and touching the animals, allowing the species to surface and migrate naturally while protecting the marine biodiversity of Sogod Bay,” Alapag said.

Local officials also highlighted the significant role tourism has played in the town’s economic recovery and development.

Prior to the growth of tourism, farming and fishing were the primary sources of livelihood for many residents. However, these sectors suffered heavy losses following a destructive typhoon that damaged coconut plantations and fishing assets, including boats.

“As tourism expanded, many fishermen and farmers found alternative income as whale shark spotters, tour guides and boat operators,” Alapag added.

He noted that one of the tourism program’s most significant impacts has been transforming former illegal fishers into active protectors of marine resources.

Officials said the whale shark interaction program has strengthened community participation in conservation efforts and provided sustainable economic opportunities for residents.

Pintuyan’s whale shark interaction began in 2013. From only a few fishermen benefiting from the activity when it started, the tourism product has now changed the lives of almost the entire community in Pintuyan, particularly those living along the coastline. (PNA)