Cebu gears up for tourist influx
The province of Cebu is reaping gains from its intensified tourism promotions and stronger international connectivity as tourist arrivals grew double digits in eight months this year.
Cebu province in the Philippines has seen a significant increase in tourist arrivals over the past eight months, with the numbers rising by 12.78% according to data from the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office. In total, Cebu welcomed 1,080,809 tourists during this period, up from 958,317 the same time last year. Domestic visitors accounted for 838,575 of these arrivals, which grew by 9.19%, while foreign tourists numbered 242,108, a substantial 27.28% increase.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro emphasized that these figures highlight the province's ongoing appeal, not only for its scenic beauty but also for the unique experiences, culture, and hospitality that locals provide. The governor has been a strong advocate for enhancing international air connectivity, believing that improved access is vital to maintaining the province's tourism boom.
During Cebu's role in hosting the 19th East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Federation General Assembly in September, strengthening connectivity emerged as a significant point of discussion. Baricuatro proposed more direct flights between Cebu and other EATOF member regions, arguing that better connectivity could boost tourism, trade, business, and personal exchanges.
According to the provincial tourism statistics, Cordova town led the pack with the most tourist arrivals from January to August, with 171,552 visitors. Santa Fe came in second with 120,197 arrivals, and Daanbantayan followed with 59,435 tourists. South Korea was the largest source of foreign tourists, with 60,518 arrivals, closely followed by the United States (22,866) and Japan (22,223).
Written by urgent.news from Philippine Star Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
