cebu tourist arrivals 2022

500,000 foreign tourists visit Cebu in 2022

CEBU CITY – Over 500,000 foreign tourists visited the province of Cebu last year, data from the Department of Tourist (DOT) showed.

In its 2022 Overnight Arrival Report, the DOT said that aside from 544,290 foreign tourists, a total of 2,210,664 local tourists also visited Cebu last year.

Cebu’s major cities, Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandue, were the most-visited places in the province last year.

Cebu City ranked No. 1 after it recorded 1,063,503 tourist arrivals last year. It also had the highest number of foreign tourist arrivals among all the local government units in Cebu with 221,983. 

Lapu-Lapu came in second with 584,872 tourist arrivals followed by Mandaue with 369,416.

The town of Santa Fe in Bantayan Island, one of the most popular beach destinations in the province, ranked fourth after tallying 134,770 tourist arrivals last year.  

Two of the favorite tourist destinations in Cebu, Daanbantayan and Moalboa, were at fifth and sixth places, respectively.

Dalaguete town only recorded 62 foreign tourist arrivals but it welcomed 40,591 domestic tourists to get the seventh spot.

Known for its whale shark-watching activities, Oslob claimed the eighth spot with 40,648 tourist arrivals. 

The cities of Bogo and Toledo also made it to the top of most-visited places in Cebu.

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Leisure Travel

• International tourist arrivals Philippines 2012-2023

Tourist arrivals to the Philippines slowly picked up after significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. From roughly 1.48 million tourists in 2020, international visitor numbers rose to around 5.45 million in 2023. Despite the increase, this number remains much lower than the pre-pandemic level. 

State of inbound tourism in the Philippines 

The tourism industry has shown significant improvements in the past two years, with flights returning to normal and tourists reviving their travel interests. Although domestic travelers continue to outnumber inbound ones , the number of international tourists in the Philippines has seen gradual growth recently. In 2023, tourism receipts also slightly surpassed the 2019 values. On average, international tourists in the Philippines stayed for about 11 nights in November 2023, spending less than 8,000 Philippine pesos daily. In 2023, more than a quarter of tourists arriving in the country came from South Korea, followed by those traveling from the United States and Japan. 

Airlines for international tourists 

In 2023, most international passengers who traveled to the Philippines were carried by Philippine Airlines (PAL) , which is the country’s flagship airline. The majority of visitors entered the country via Manila, followed by Cebu. Aside from PAL, international tourists also traveled through Cebu Pacific, which is a low-cost airline that offers both domestic and international flights.  

Total number of international tourist arrivals to the Philippines from 2012 to 2023 (in millions)

Additional Information

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January 2024

Philippines

2012 to 2023

*Only covers February to December 2022.

Figures have been rounded. 

Figures prior to 2023 came from earlier reports.

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25 Best Cebu Tourist Spots Guide 2022

Planning to go to Cebu, and wondering what Cebu tourist spots you should visit? Surely, Cebu has many beautiful sites. And, you would want to go to all, or choose from the BEST  Cebu tourist attractions guide . Find out what and where these places are. Then, you may know how to get there as you read on.

1. cebu taoist temple.

Let’s start within the city area. First off, we have Cebu Taoist Temple in Beverly Hills Subdivision, Cebu City. The  Chinese Taoism  community built this Chinese style architecture temple in 1972.

This temple had become popular because of its  artistic structures . Even non-believers of the Taoism religion pay visit to the place.

From there, you can see the striking view of the city and even the Mactan Island. And of course, for Taoists, this is the ideal place to pray or meditate.

Hence, we put it on top of Cebu tourist spots guide.

2. Temple of Leah

The next tourist attraction is the  Temple of Leah   which is along Cebu Transcentral highway. Teodorico Soriano Adarna built this temple in 2012.

The temple is a symbol of his undying love   for his wife of 53 years, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. The temple has 24 chambers including a museum, an art gallery and a library.

Moreover, this place has Leah’s favorite and personal belongings.

In addition,  Greek and Roman architectures  are the inspiration of the temple. Statues of gigantic lions as well as a grand staircase with brass angels are decors of this Taj Mahal of Cebu.

3. Sirao Flower Garden

Heading to the more elevated spot is in the Busay area which is the  Sirao Flower Garden . Going there is like  experiencing the Netherlands , thus this tourist attraction is commonly called, “The Little Amsterdam”.

The array of celosia (or  ‘Burlas’ by locals ) flowers in flaring red, purple, yellow, orange makes it Amsterdam-ish. The put-up  windmill  and the cool wind complement the scenic view. Hence, this gives the guests the unique, touristy feel.

4. 10,000 Roses of Cebu

Moving to the nearby island of Mactan, you can visit the  10,000 Roses of Cebu . This magnificent spot, which is in Day-as Barangay Rd, Cordova, Cebu, has gone viral on social media.  10,000 artificial LED-powered  roses surround this certain Roses Café & More.

Most guests prefer to go there during dusk to see the beautiful sunset while the roses lit up at night. Moreover, the owner of the café, who is also an interior designer, intends to create a romantic ambiance for couples.

The café offers  sumptuous food  which you can savor while enjoying the wonderful mood with your lover.

5. Osmeña Peak

Going south, you could climb the Osmeña Peak of Cebu in Mantalongon, Dalaguete (pronounced “Dalaget”). Standing at  1,013 meters above sea level , Osmeña Peak is the highest point in the entire island.  Lime stones that have sharp protruding peaks which are perfect for taking pictures make up these hills. 

The peak is part of the Mantalongon mountain range that stretches as far as the municipality of Badian. It is considered a  twin to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills .

Further, the main activities here   are  hiking and camping . Most hikers prefer two hiking trails. The first one begins in Badian, passing by Kawasan Falls.

On the other hand, the other one is in the town of Dumanjug, which culminates in Brgy Liong. In addition, when you trek going to the top of the mountain, don’t forget to bring your water, it will help you re-hydrate.

6. Kawasan Falls

Still in the south of Cebu is the  breathtaking Kawasan Falls  in Badian municipality. Some hikers from Osmena Peak traverse to Kawasan Falls after camping, but you can just go directly to Kawasan via Barili. 

Kawasan Falls is a three-stage cascade of   clear turquoise water  from mountain springs of Mantalongon mountain range. The waterfalls is a pearl   of the Philippines. One of the most popular  tourist spots in Cebu south  is  Kawasan Canyoneering .  

The  canyoneering  adventure starts at Canlaob river  downstream  going to Kawasan falls.  Local accredited guides  accompany all tourists and facilitate the activities such as walking, jumping, swimming, climbing and abseiling through the streams.  Most of all, when you do canyoneering,  be prepared  to be thrilled.

7. Pescador Island

Further, there is a wall covered with hard corals dropping down to about 40 meters (130 ft).  In that wall are tons of different species of  colorful sea creatures , including sharks . Better to prepare your underwater camera to capture its beautiful corals and different marine species.

Another main tourist attraction that is getting popular in this location is the  Sardine Run . You can swim with millions of Sardines (also known as Herring), which is totally amazing. Therefore, brace yourself to experience the magnificent beauty of the underwater.

8. Oslob Whale Sharks

Oslob  Municipality is known for old churches and beautiful beaches but became more popular because of the gentle giants – the  Whale Sharks .

Local fishermen would interact with the whale sharks by feeding them…until large number of tourists began to arrive in Oslob to see the whale sharks being fed. As a result, these tourists  snorkel or dive  with the whale sharks.

Oslob Whale Shark watching  is one of the top in the  bucket lists of tourists  who visit Cebu because of the rare experience. Most note worthy, when ever you have a close encounter with the Whale Sharks, it is not allowed to touch them.

9. Tumalog Falls

Tumalog Falls is a  curtain like waterfalls  that covers the entire cliff with cool and clear water. Moss embraces the rocks of the cliff which filters the water and gives a curtain effect. It is one-of-a-kind and definitely stunning.

Hence, this has become one of many’s favorite Cebu tourist spots.

10. Sumilon Island Sandbar

Bluewater Resorts owns the island; hence, spending the night in the island is not allowed unless you are checked-in at  Sumilon Bluewater Island   Resort.

But not to worry, they provide day trip tours which include lunch and activities such as snorkeling, hiking, fishing, paddling and many more.

11. Simala Church

The design is inspired from  European cathedrals . Not only is the place magnificent in structure, but this also reveals a culture that is deeply seated among Cebuanos – the essence of Roman Catholicism. 

Monks  who are devoted to the Virgin Mary reside in this church. Believers frequent the huge statue of the Virgin Mary since many consider it miraculous. Also, the multitude of Marys  dressed in various cultural themes interests visitors.

12. Magellan’s Cross

King of Spain Charles 1 chose navigator Ferdinand Magellan to look for the “Spice Islands”. In doing so, Magellan was able to cross the globe and eventually landed in the Philippines in 1521. Specifically, he made his step in Cebu on March 15, 1521.

Magellan presented Christianity to Cebuanos, and most of them embraced the religion. In this site is where Magellan planted the Cross (which symbolizes Christianity) on April 21, 1521. An encasement protects the original Magellan’s cross.

13. Basilica del Sto. Niño

Just right beside the Magellan’s Cross is the oldest Christian church of the Philippines. Fray  Andrés de Urdaneta , O.S.A. and Fray Diego de Herrera, O.S.A. founded Basilica del Sto Niño in 1565.

Ferdinand Magellan’s “Sto Niño” which is the Holy Child Jesus statue is in this church. He had this Sto Niño when he converted Cebu’s chieftain Humabon and his wife to Christianity on April 14, 1521.

The See of Rome labels this church as the “”Mother and Head of all Churches in the Philippines”.

14. Colon Street

Basilica del Sto. Niño situates in Colon Street, the oldest street in the country.  Spanish colonizer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established the street in 1565. He named the street after Cristopher Columbus who was actually Cristobal Colon.

This place is near Cebu ports and is the hub for early commerce. As a result, first establishments of Cebu are in this street. At present, it is still the hotspot for businesses, theaters, pubs, shopping malls, etcetera.

If you wish to buy your “pasalubong”or souvenir, it is in these street where you find stores that sell cheap souvenir items. People commonly celebrate the popular Sinulog Festival in Colon Street.

15. The Heritage of Cebu Monument

Lies in Colon Street is the monument portraying Cebu’s major historic events. The Heritage of Cebu Monument is in Parian Plaza. Cebuano artist Eduardo Castrillo structured the monument using brass, concrete, steel and bronze.

The sculpting began in July 1997 and completed in December 2000. The features of the monument include Christian conversions, Spanish occupation, battle against foreign colonizer, a prominent Christian figure, and a certain Philippine president.

To know the specifics, it is best you visit this site which stands stall and strong at the heart of the city.

16. Yap Sandiego Ancestral House

No need to go further, right across The Heritage of Cebu Monument is the Yap Sandiego Ancestral House. This ancestral house is one of the oldest houses in the Philippines. Built during Spanish era (between 1675-1700), coral stones and egg whites make the walls.

Molave, balayong and terracotta glue the roof together. Although this is built during Spanish occupation, the owner of the house, Don Juan Yap is a Chinese trader.

Therefore, the design of the house is a mix of Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino inspirations. Cebu’s native materials make up the furniture of the house.

Moreover, religious images are over the house which reflect the religiosity of the residents.

17. Jesuit House of 1730 or Museo de Parian

Image source  Still in the same area, a walking distance from YapSandiego Ancestral House is the Jesuit House of 1730. It is also the “Museo de Parian”. The second highest ranking Jesuit priest in the Philippines used to reside in here.

Moreover, this house welcomed transient Jesuit missioners from various regions. Like Yap Sandiego, the coral stones and terracotta hold the house.

However, the place is real grand – the ceilings are high, the walls are high. This has become the meeting place of the early Cebuano elites.

To add, the house preserves some ceramics spotted during the Ming Dynasty.

18. Casa Gorordo Museum

Image Source  From the Jesuit House, you just have to walk, and in about five minutes, you get to Casa Gorordo Museum. This house-turned-museum is where the first Cebuano bishop, Juan Gorordo, resided.

Originally built during the 1800s, a Spanish businessman Juan Isidro de Gorordo purchased the house. Due to Ramon Aboitiz Foundation’s Cultural Heritage Program, Casa Gorordo became a museum in 1980. The museum depicts Philippine culture between 1800s to 1900s.

19. Fort San Pedro

About ten-minute walk from Casa Gorordo is the oldest fort in the Philippines- Fort San Pedro. Spanish leader, General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi commanded the building of this fort. De Legazpi thought to use it against Muslim warriors.

However, as time passed by, other colonizers had used it for other reasons. When Americans occupied Cebu, their soldiers used this as their residence. Also, Americans educated Cebuanos in this fort.

Further, during the Japanese colonization,  Japanese also used the fort as a barrack, a prisoner and a hospital. The historicity of this smallest-oldest fort in the country is undeniable.

20. Museo Sugbo

Four blocks from Fort San Pedro is Sugbu Museo. This is a large museum because it used to be Cebu’s provincial jail. The lone architect in Cebu at that time, Domingo de Escondrillas designed it in 1869.

During Spanish occupation, this served as prison for Filipino captives. However, during American period, Americans placed their horses here as stables for horse racing. Also, during Japanese time, Japanese imprisoned Filipino opponents in this place. 

This becomes Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) but CPDRC has relocated. Thus, on August 5, 2008,  the place became a museum since it has rich role in Cebu’s history.

21. Camotes Island

From the city, we go to the Northern part of Cebu where a magnificent Island lies –  Camotes Island .

The travel time from Cebu city to Danao Port (which is where you ride on a boat toward the island) is about 1    hour. From Danao port, traveling by the sea takes two hours.

Camotes Island gives you numerous attractions to go to. In a day, you can go to a lake, to a cave, to an islet, and of course, to beaches. To maximize your time, it is best to be there for more than a day though.

Visit Santiago Beach which has a long, white shoreline; Mangodlong Rock which has picturesque blue and green waters; Lake Danao which has a serene green lake where you can use a kayak to land on the mini land in the center;

Bukilat Cave which you can swim in with its fresh cold waters;  Tulang Diyot  which is a paradise-like islet with its white sand and alluring waters.

Other equally great places are Timubo Cave, Holy Crystal Cave, Paraiso Cave, Buho Rock Beach Resort, Busay Falls, Bakhaw Beach. Again, Camotes Island is abounding in spots to go to…stay there for 3 days for best vacation experience.

22. Bantayan Island

As a matter of fact, it becomes popular in the country when a film was shot there. Many flock to enjoy the breathtaking beaches of Sta. Fe, Bantayan.

From Danao, you will travel 2 to 3 hours more to reach Hagnaya Port. This is the gateway for you to be transported to Bantayan Island via a ferry. The ferry travels one and a half hour.

With the affordable accommodation yet world-class scenery, you could never go wrong with Bantayan Island. You will enjoy the tranquility and the beautiful waves of its seas.

23.  Cebu Safari and Adventure

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is the largest zoo in the Philippines. And, it has Asia’s longest zipline – a whooping 1.2 kilometers! This zoo includes plant and animal species of various kinds, such as exotic tigers and birds.

Becoming at par with international zoos, Cebu Safari and Adventure Parks brings you to the amazing nature of Carmen mountains.

Since this is in Carmen, a northern part of Cebu which would take long hours from the city, it is best to travel as early as possible: opening is at 8 in the morning, but the last admission time is at 2:00 pm. The tour at the zoo takes at least 3 hours.

What is more interesting and unique about this spot is you can enjoy many thrilling activities: hiking and canyoning in the waterfalls, biking, swaying in the ziplines, and many more!

24.  Cebu Ocean Park

Cebu Ocean Park is the Philippines’ biggest oceanarium. Located just behind the large SM Seaside Mall and beside the wondrous San Pedro Calungsod Chapel, this is a perfect place for young kids as it is accessible to those who are near the city, and is surely educational and entertaining!

There are thousands of marine species settled in aquariums of varied shapes and sizes.  Fascinating-looking sea creatures are catchers to the tots’ curious minds.

In addition, this site is available every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 PM. Do not miss to explore this park with family!

25.  Anjo World Theme Park

Anjo World Theme Park is Visayas’ largest theme park and Cebu’s pride for its world-class designs and rides. It is situated in Minglanilla, roughly an hour from Cebu city.

True to its name, Anjo World has zones with themes based on the major continents of the world. It is like a quick tour to countries and cultures of the globe. 

This theme park is a mini-Disneyland – It has exciting rides and has a “snow world”. The best word to describe the experience here is “Fun”. 

During weekdays, this opens at 12 noon to 8:00 pm with a 450 pesos per person fee for unlimited rides. During weekends, Anjo World operates a longer time from 10 in the morning to 9 in the evening, at a 550 pesos fee per person. 

 Snow World is an attractive feature that visitors would only visit this section for 350 pesos. However, if you have already paid for the unlimited rides, you only need to add 200 pesos as pass in the Snow World.

This is definitely a worth-it destination for adventure and amusement!

Cebu tourist spots are mixture of historic sites, gorgeous beaches, and fun activities. This Cebu tourist spots guide is arranged by geographical location so you can go to several places in one trip.

You may also check our  Cebu City Tour  package for hassle-free trip. There are still many places to visit in Cebu. So start packing your bags…and  Travel Cebu !

Cebu Travel Agency and Canyoneering Cebu Badian Adventure are operated by Smartway Travel and Tours Services, A Travel Agency based in Cebu. Offering the best cebu tour package. 

Smartway Travel and Tours Services was established in January 2003. Providing quality tours for more than 20 years in the travel industry.

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Record number 1,400 Koreans arrive to Filipino welcome led by Tourism Secretary Frasco

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Seeing South Korea as an important tourism source market and driver for travel and tourism growth for the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday (Apr. 13) hosted welcome rites for the record 1400 delegation of incentive travelers from Korea upon their arrival at the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

Leading the initiative to greet the Korean travelers with the distinct Filipino hospitality is no less than Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco who met a batch of 300 travelers from the delegation.

The travelers, who arrived at the MCIA via chartered flight KE 9615, are members of the Korea branch of UNICITY, a direct selling company on health functional foods, cosmetics and household items and with over 60 markets globally.

As a reward to their top agents, sellers, and distributors, UNICITY-Korea sends a big volume of incentive groups to Southeast Asian countries annually. This year, the company is sending 1,400 people in four batches (Apr. 9, 13, 17, and 21) to Cebu.

For 2023, Secretary Frasco happily shared that Korea has reclaimed the number one spot in terms of tourist arrivals to the Philippines.

DOT data showed a significant pick up in Korean arrivals since last year, with 428,014 or a 16.13 percent share of the country’s arrivals received between February 10–when the country eased its borders for leisure travelers—up until December 31, 2022.

“The good news is that as of today, we have over 1.5 million tourist arrivals to the Philippines and our number one top source market are the Koreans. So we’re very grateful to our friends from Korea for continuing to show their love for the Philippines as they have come back in droves, and the UNICITY group in particular, has come with a delegation of no less than 1,400 individuals,” Secretary Frasco said.

Frasco was joined by Lapu-lapu City Lone Representative Congresswoman Cindi King-Chan; Lapu-lapu City Mayor Junard Ahong Chan; Mr. Rafael Aboitiz, Chief Executive Officer of GMR – Aboitiz; Mr. Julius G. Neri, MCIA General Manager; Mr. Heejin Noh, Corporate Business Team Leader of Tides Square Korea; and Mr. Sangyeol Ha, Korean Air Station Manager in Cebu, and officials of the DOT including Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, and OIC-Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso.

To complete their preview of the colorful Filipino experience, the travelers were also welcomed with leis, fascinating performances by Filipiniana-clad rondalla serenaders as well as by vibrant Sinulog dancers.

Korea as an enduring travel partner of the Philippines

Prior to the pandemic, Korea ranked number one in terms of visitor arrivals to the Philippines, with 1,989,322 or 24.08 percent of the country’s total number of arrivals for 2019. As with other tourism source markets of the Philippines, arrivals from Korea declined drastically during the pandemic, dropping to 338,877 and 6,456, for 2020 and 2021, respectively.

“They’re coming on a daily basis and the numbers are increasing by the day. Last year, they were at number two, because it is the United States that [provided] our number one top source market. But this year, the Koreans have reclaimed the number one spot and we send out the message to all our friends in Korea, that you are more than welcome to keep coming back again and again to Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, and the rest of our beautiful islands in the Philippines,” she added.

Philippines as an ideal destination for MICE

Secretary Frasco, who earlier identified the diversification of the country’s tourism portfolio through multidimensional tourism as among the DOT’s seven main objectives, further noted that the arrival of a delegation as big as the UNICITY group as a welcome development especially with the DOT “seeing MICE tourism become a very strong product for the Philippines and also for Cebu.”

“They are staying for a few days and we expect that this will contribute greatly to the economy of Cebu in particular, and to the rest of the country in general, considering the multiplier effect of tourism is really so that they will support our local tourism stakeholders, our small and medium enterprises, and the like,” the DOT chief said.

To further boost the Korean tourism source market and visitor arrivals, the DOT through its office in Korea carries out marketing initiatives including an online presentation to educate the MICE players in the Philippines about the Korean MICE market, as well as participation to upcoming key events such as business-to-business (B2B) fairs, and a MICE roadshow.

As the DOT chief expressed confidence that the incentive travelers will be able to fully appreciate the beauty of Lapu-lapu City and the Province of Cebu, she also cited the potential of many other destinations – Bohol in particular, in attracting incentive travelers from Korea and other countries.

“We’re certainly also pitching for Bohol as an attractive island tourism destination in Central Visayas, especially considering the variety of offerings that Bohol has especially in terms of nature-based tourism as well as pilgrimage and heritage tourism,” she enthused.

Published:April 14, 2023

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DOT, partner agencies drive up promotion of Filipino food experience

More than 7.5k tourism workers in Baguio have received Covid vax – Tourism Chief

Dot, tpb distribute p19m worth of materials to promote safety protocols.

DOT, NTF bring vaccination rollout for tourism workers in Siargao Island

DOT: 95% of tourism workers in NCR vaxxed vs Covid-19

Sustainability is key to tourism industry’s recovery — puyat, dot lauds private sector for vaccine rollout in el nido.

PHITEX 2021: Beyond Business slated for September 19-23

Puyat leads vaccination drive for Pampanga tourism workers

More than 75% of Bohol tourism workers eyed for inoculation with second vaccine roll-out

More than 70% of tourism frontliners in metro manila vaccinated vs covid-19 — puyat.

DOT and TPB SUCCESSFULLY STAGED FIRST-EVER HYBRID EDITION OF THE REGIONAL TRAVEL FAIR

Dot, bpos to hold job fair, statement of the department of tourism.

DOT targets increased inoculation of tourism workers in more destinations

Puyat: More vaccines coming for Palawan tourism workers

Dot statement on nesthy petecio’s silver medal finish in the tokyo 2020 olympics, rizal park drive-thru vax site opens; puyat hails manila’s anti-covid initiative, dot gets highest coa rating for 2nd straight year, statement of the department of tourism on the passing of heritage and cultural tourism advocate mr. ramon hofileña, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the heightened community quarantine level implementations in ncr, more tourism workers in boracay to receive covid-19 jabs – dot, dot reiterates call for safe travel amid stricter quarantine measure, dot reminds hotels, resorts that room sharing for quarantined families is allowed, dot celebrates siargao inclusion in time magazine as one of the world’s greatest places of 2021, dot launches halal food tourism, dot backs gov’t infra program to boost tourism, dot backs iloilo bid for ‘creative city of gastronomy’ recognition from unesco, statement of the department of tourism on iatf decision allowing children five years old and above, and fully vaccinated seniors to visit outdoor areas, dot partners with viber to promote kain na foodfest, dot: 3,000 boracay tourism workers to receive covid vax, dot, tpb continues to support lgus with digital transformation projects, dot teams up with scarlet belo and cartoon network to take safe trips, dot statement on the activities of the taal volcano, bakuna by the sea: dot hails davao’s innovative approach to travel, hospitality workers, dot, tpb to roll out 2nd phase of rt-pcr financial subsidy program through pcmc, dot unveils region 1 tourism recovery plan, statement of the department of tourism on the drop of tourism contribution to gdp, dot to co-stage virtual fête de la musique june 18-21, more ncr tourism workers receive support through dot-dole program, travel for tourists of all ages from ncr plus to boracay, other mgcq areas extended to june 30, dot eyes inoculation of 5,000 bohol tourism workers, museums in ncr plus to reopen on limited capacity – dot, dot turns food tourism to high heat with 2021 kain na, terms for tourism business loans eased, dot bares tourism recovery plans for bulacan, dot and tiktok launch #sarapmagingpinoy campaign to promote local food tourism, dot launches five-year plan to develop tourism professionals, dot celebrates world environment month, highlights responsible marine wildlife interactions, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the rt-pcr requirement for leisure travelers under iatf-eid resolution 118a, statement of the dot on iatf-eid resolution 118a, more than 16k bulacan tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, dot orders stricter monitoring of staycation hotels and aes in gcq areas following new iatf guidelines, dot lauds inclusion of frontline tourism workers in a1 priority group, dot hosts pata summit for first hybrid mice event in 2021, over 1,400 golf workers in metro manila get dot-dole cash aid.

Central Luzon to Showcase ‘Flavors of Pampanga’, readies tourists for gastronomic experience

Dot lauds ph hotels recognized with the 2021 tripadvisor awards, 3,390 tourism workers in marinduque approved to receive p16.95m dot-dole cash aid, puyat bares tourism recovery plans for marinduque, dot proposes ‘green lane’ for fully vaccinated travelers, dot hails expansion of priority vaccination to a4 cluster, including tourism frontliners, 5,986 staycation rooms open for guests from ncr plus, intramuros to open fort santiago, baluarte de san diego to visitors may 17, dot statement on the proposed vaccination center in nayong pilipino, dot welcomes iatf decision to ease travel in ncr plus, 221m cash aid approved for 44k tourism workers in western visayas, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the collected garbage from the waters of samal island, davao del norte, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the reported violations of a hotel in davao city, dot to host hybrid pata annual event for adventure travel, p1.5m cash aid approved for 295 intramuros tourism workers, updates on the vaccination of tourism workers, labor day vax for tourism workers, more than 400k displaced tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, philippine tourism and mice industry to bounce back with the hosting of wttc global summit, dot, manila lgu ink mobile hospital deal, dot-accredited establishment staysafe.ph-users, eligible for safety seal certification, dot grants the wttc safe travels stamp to 33 more hotels nationwide, dot welcomes proposals to convert tourism sites to temporary medical facilities, dot lauds repurposed hotels, calls for ‘bayanihan’ vs covid, dot approves use of burnham green and quirino grandstand in rizal park for temporary mobile hospital and drive-thru vaccination site, dot celebrates saud beach inclusion in the 25 most beautiful beaches in the world list of travel and leisure, 67k displaced tourism workers of ncr+ receive dot-dole cash aid, statement of the department of tourism on the vaccination facility in nayong pilipino property, statement of the department of tourism regarding the alleged birthday “super spreader” event in boracay, dot eyes adoption of covid-19 digital travel pass, dot statement on ecq extension in ncr plus, phl, dot nominated at asia edition of 2021 world travel awards, dot pushes for inclusion of other tourism workers in priority group a4, strict new guidelines set for hotels under ecq; lenten ‘staycations’ within ncr plus suspended, dot statement on ecq for ncr+ areas, dot statement on holy week, rizal park and paco park adjust visiting hours, remain open for physical exercise, dot statement on biatf measures for boracay, tpb philippines spearheads tourism and technology forum (ttf), dot statement on coron tourist with falsified travel documents, dot supports rizal tourism circuit on food, faith, art, adventure and nature, the ‘fun’ continues: philippines joins digital itb berlin, dot to spur domestic tourism in rizal, dot’s stdp program to enhance resiliency of phl destinations – puyat, dot sustains online presence with ‘wake up in ph’ campaign and safety travel advisories, dot greenlights partial operations of hotel restaurants on june 15, dot eyes tourism recovery as more destinations may reopen, domestic travel to drive recovery of tourism industry, says survey, dot hails revival of tourist cops, tourism will recover well, dot chief vows, dot celebrates hidden beach, palawan’s inclusion in cnt’s best beaches in the world, tourism industry hikes share in gdp to 13%; puyat sees strong recovery from pandemic, dot pushes stringent guidelines for stakeholders across the nation, biatf denounces travelers’ breach of entry protocol to boracay, dot lauds partnership model for safe and sustainable tourism in boracay, dot issues guidelines on tourist land transport services, iatf–eid resolution reiterates ‘dot certificate of authority’ as requisite to operate, dot issues protocols on restaurant operations under the new normal, dot welcomes ph ‘rising stars in travel’ citation by forbes.com, dot, dti to roll out health and safety guidelines, digital solutions for restaurants, dot, attached agencies promote digital tourism, tourism chief reminds hotels, resorts: no dot certificate, no business operations during mgcq, dot assists 36,000 tourists during covid-19 crisis, dot webinar tackles digital as the new normal, dot welcomes the resumption of tourism operations in areas under mgcq, trust and health safety key to phl tourism recovery – dot chief, puyat on reopening tourism: ‘do it slowly but surely’, dot brings home 84 tourists stranded in eastern visayas, dot supports coron’s sustainable tourism development to bounce back, dot welcomes puerto princesa reopening to domestic tourists, dot urges for more wttc safe travels stamp applications, boracay’s white beach, el nido’s nacpan beach among tripadvisor’s top beaches in asia, dot statement on uniform travel protocols, dot supports the safe reopening of negros oriental, puyat affirms support for siquijor’s reopening, dot statement on el nido’s swift action against tourists with false covid test records, dot supports dilg’s streamlining of travel requirements, dot assists 98 stranded tourists in western mindanao, dot assists 246 tourists stranded in bicol, dot response team assists 1004 tourists stranded in caraga region, statement of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat, dot8 springs stranded tourists, total assisted travelers now at 11,000, dot assists stranded tourists in central luzon, dot response teams assist over 10,000 travelers, dot announces the guidelines on hotels and other accommodation establishments during the enhanced community quarantine, dot chief: innovation to spur food tourism in new normal, dot webinar tackles heritage site conservation and use amid pandemic, dot banners “filipino brand of service”; assists over 35,000 tourists amid pandemic, dot to jumpstart domestic tourism under stricter protocols with iatf and lgus, dot partners with wttc to share experts’ tourism outlook, recovery plans, dot regulates hotel food deliveries, dot: tourism industry up to tough challenges on path to recovery, more than 155,000 tourism sector workers receive first tranche of dof wage subsidy program, dot mounts sweeper flights; brings home 1000 stranded domestic tourists, dot webinar tackles recovery, future of phl’s m.i.c.e., statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the iatf–eid authorization to mount sweeper flights, statement of secretary bernadette romulo puyat on the passing of former dot secretary ramon jimenez, jr., dot–ncr assists 24,000 in–transit nationals amid ecq of luzon, dot and ssi support philippine food producers in online philippine harvest, dot provides virtual backgrounds for video calls to encourage “travel from home”, dot offers online “enhanced opportunity” training for tourism stakeholders, dot-region 6 delivers filipino brand of service in crisis, dot outlines tourism response, post–covid 19 recovery plan to aid private sector, dot issues guidelines defining “new normal” for accommodation establishments, 24,836 hotel rooms reserved for ofws’ quarantine, bpo staff use – dot chief, stranded tourists welcome extended stay in batanes, dot welcomes lifting of travel ban for outbound passengers, recovery flights, tourism transport to continue for stranded passengers, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on covid-19 local transmission, dot statement on the curfew recommendation for lgus, dot, turkish airlines form partnership to increase philippine tourism from europe and mediterranean source markets, dot celebrates first run of the philippine international hot air balloon fiesta in calabarzon, puyat convenes tourism council; invites public to travel within ph, international visitor receipts hit usd 9.31b in 2019, 20.81% up from 2018, dot postpones nationwide mall sale to prioritize safety of citizens, department of tourism unveils new ad inspired by the abakada alphabet, highlighting unique filipino culture, puyat advocates for cultural and ecotourism in the new normal, relive the history of intramuros city with augmented reality app experience philippines, dot: 1st phl shopping fest kicks off march 1st, doh, dilg and dot give public gatherings green light, 2019 international arrivals exceed target with 8.26 million visitors to the philippines, dot welcomes lifting of taiwan travel ban, joint statement of the department of tourism and tourism congress of the philippines, dot backs “balik sa bohol” for tourism industry revival, intramuros reopens in the new normal, relaxed and standard health protocols, personalized trips key to tourism recovery, says latest philippine travel survey, dot files falsification raps against boracay tourists with forged covid test results, dot: reclassification of industries to hasten recovery, dot statement following the president’s latest directive to contain the ncov, guidelines in handling guests in tourism enterpises in the advent of ncov global health emergency, puyat eyes isabela as top agro-ecotourism destination, dot, dti inspect hotels and restaurants’ compliance with health and safety protocols, dot chief checks readiness of palawan, fresh produce at your doorstep, courtesy of dot–grab tie–up, dot ‘seal of good housekeeping’ boosts confidence among restos amid pandemic – puyat, dot celebrates as palawan reclaims best island in the world citation, tourism chief bullish on english schools’ recovery, dot, fao team up for sustainable farm tourism in ph, meetings, conventions allowed only under mgcq at 50% capacity – dot, boracay now open to youths, seniors from region, dot chief lauds senate approval of bayanihan 2 on final reading, cites plans for 10b stimulus fund, “think out of the box,” tourism industry urged in dot webinar, dot assures tourist stakeholders of all–out support for slow reopening, puyat meets with bohol execs to tackle tourism situation, recovery plans, dot, cloud panda ph launches phl harvest e-commerce site, statement of dot, dot to scale up baguio’s ridge to reef travel bubble plan across phl, dot celebrates “surprisingly spectacular diving” tag of 3 phl dive sites by lonely planet, phl bags best overseas diving award 2020, statement of department of tourism, dot’s phidex 2020 goes digital, dot-dole amended jmc further expands coverage of beneficiaries, dot welcomes new protocols for arriving passengers, dot bats for a more fun, safe and sustainable laguna, dot chief: green corridors are critical to tourism recovery, dot statement on destination test requirements, dot statement on boracay tourists, dot welcomes asean as a single tourism destination, iatf allows baguio hotels to receive domestic tourists under gcq, raising the bar of filipino hospitality with the leadership excellence series 2021, dot lauds inclusion of tourism frontliners in priority group for vaccination, dot’s ‘kain na’ cooks up online food fest, phl hosts 3rd asean meet on tourism professionals; dot commits to beef up competency of tourism workforce in the new normal, safety marshalls to ensure physical distancing when beaches, resorts reopen, 10,000 bpo jobs for displaced tourism workers, zero interest loans, no collateral, easy terms for distressed tourism businesses, puyat to grace baguio reopening; dot to go big on domestic tourism in 2021, chocolate, coffee, tea take centerstage in dot’s kain na food festival, dot receives safetravels stamp from world tourism body, puyat launches baguio’s vis.i.t.a. platform, reopening of boracay to more markets builds momentum for domestic tourism revival, puyat: even in most unusual ways, tourism must stay alive, message of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat on the celebration of the world tourism day, dot statement on the city garden grand hotel, dot chief supports negrense cookbook launch, vows continued support to thriving food tourism scene in western visayas, dot statement on the closure of makati shangri-la hotel, dot pledges to help negros occidental get ready for more domestic tourists, dot welcomes the first two recipients of the wttc safe travel stamp, dot statement on baguio party incident, dot welcomes iatf decision to allow balikbayans, dot launches “have a safe trip, pinas” to promote safe travels and support tourism workers, dot celebrates ph’s victory as world’s leading dive destination and tourist attraction for intramuros in 2020, dot welcomes coron’s reopening on dec. 1 with health and safety measures in place, dot aims for data-driven response to tourism recovery under new normal with survey, dot backs enhanced contact tracing; announces low-cost covid tests with up-pgh for boracay-bound tourists, puyat encourages affected tourism workforce to avail of the expanded dot-dole financial assistance, dot welcomes strides to reboot mice, puyat visits batangas, shores up dive tourism, statement of the dot on cebu resort incident, dot presents virtual concert to promote manila’s cultural heritage sites, dot, makatimed foundation forge partnership for tourism destination health security, dot launches webinar training on reducing single-use plastics for hospitality sector, dot to assist zambales in safe and gradual tourism reopening, dot bats for uniform lgu travel requirements, dot, tpb promote pinoy christmas through music, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot prepares local destinations, accommodation establishments for wttc safe travels stamp application, 27,000 displaced tourism workers of car receive dot-dole financial assistance, dot backs temporary suspension of flights from uk, dot inspires balikbayans to come home with ‘balikan ang pilipinas’ campaign, dot, tpb expand rt-pcr financial subsidy program for 11,600 tourists through pcmc, dot reiterates penalties for quarantine hotels used for staycation and other purposes, dot supports strict entry protocols in light of new covid-19 variant, dot reiterates rule on staycation hotels, dot celebrates boracay and palawan inclusion in conde nast’s 25 best island beaches in the world list, dot issues guidelines for safe ‘staycation’, dot accreditation goes digital, boracay reopens, heralds “safe, gradual” revival of philippine tourism, dot gets coa’s highest rating on 2019 audit, dot sees domestic tourism boom in baguio with affordable antigen testing, phl islands named top favorites by int’l travel magazine, dot welcomes reopening of ilocos norte to luzon tourists on oct 15, dot funds rt-pcr testing of boracay tourism workers, dot inks tourism “cares for travel” msme loan program with sb corp, health, safety rules drawn up for recreational diving, batangas now open to divers – dot, puyat reminds ‘staycation hotels’ to follow rules, protocols, dot welcomes baguio city’s opening to guests from luzon starting oct. 22, dot statement on the opening of ilocos sur starting nov 15, ridge and reef corridor heralds domestic tourism recovery, puyat – hotels in gcq, mgcq may now be allowed to operate at full capacity, pra to amend retirement policies, suspends processing of srrv applications, dot supports expansion of palawan’s travel bubble starting oct. 30, tourism chief bats for covid-19 tests price cap, dot urges tourism businesses to avail of sb corp’s covid-19 loan program, dot leadership excellence series returns anew, dot statement on the inclusion of palawan and boracay in big 7 travel’s list of 50 most beautiful places, dot, tpb launch official philippine travel app, dot, dole agree on guidelines for cash-for-work program for displaced tourism workers, tour guides, dot’s kain na takes on food trips for november, intramuros is now asia’s leading tourist attraction the philippines and dot receive accolades at the 2020 world travel awards asia winners day, statement of the department of tourism on prrd’s signing of eo 118, dot inks mou on tourism education, training, dot partners with nissan to promote ‘safe trips’, dot allows operation of 7,200 hotels, resorts, dot lauds ibagiw 2020, baguio’s creative city festival, dot welcomes reopening of phl’s surfing capital, siargao, ridge and reef travel corridor expands to ilocos sur, dot chief visits baguio city, touts cultural tourism with creative crawls, sec. puyat to grace 2020 bambanti festival, dot allocates p340.7m for iloilo tourism infrastructure development, tourist arrivals mark 7.4m in november, up by 15.58%, safety of tourists is dot’s top priority – sec. puyat, dot, cab collaborate to enhance air passenger’s bill of rights, statement of the department of tourism, 2nd statement of the department of tourism, dot thanks smart for emergency satellite phones, dot–dotr meet to boost tourism infra, connectivity; puyat to push approval of 1b for night–rated airports, dot chief to visit, vows to revitalize baguio, tourism chief: phl one with asean in responding to covid crisis.

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Central Visayas gets 2.2M tourists

CENTRAL Visayas logged 2.2 million tourist arrivals in the first half of this year, but even better news is ahead as cruise ships, tourist rest stops and diving industry support are expected to boost arrivals in the region, according to the country’s top tourism official.

Cebu’s share of tourist arrivals stood at 1.55 million combined domestic and international tourists from January to June, said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco during the post-State of the Nation Address (Sona) Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB)-Cebu leg on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023 at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

Cebu province, according to Frasco, is now the most preferred destination among regional overnight travelers, an improvement from last year’s second-ranking.

“The growth of tourism in Central Visayas has been phenomenal and very well aligned with the phenomenal growth of the entire country as far as our regions are concerned,” she added.

Some 3.4 million foreign tourists visited the Philippines as of Aug. 11, 2023, which represents 70.34 percent of the 4.8 million target foreign arrivals this year.

Foreign tourism receipts as of June 30 stood at P285 billion.

“We are optimistic not only to meet our target but also to exceed it,” Frasco said before an audience of local financial and business communities in Cebu.

In 2022, the Philippines logged 2.65 million foreign arrivals, and recorded P1.87 trillion in tourism receipts for domestic and foreign tourists combined.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) was one of the presenters during the PEB, a flagship activity of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Investor Relations Group that updates regional stakeholders on the developments in the Philippine economy.

The BSP, together with the Department of Finance, has mounted domestic roadshows for the post-Sona PEB in key growth centers in Davao, Cebu and Ilocos Norte.

Tourist rest areas

Frasco, in her presentation, outlined the agency’s upcoming programs to grow the tourism industry in Central Visayas.

To enhance the overall tourism experience, more Tourist Rest Areas (TRA) will be inaugurated in Cebu Province, namely in Carmen, Carcar and Moalboal.

The TRA, according to the DOT, is a convergence point that foreign and local travelers could approach to get information on tourism sites and attractions, activities and accommodations; report concerns related to safety and security; and gain access to other provisions necessary during their stay at a destination, such as a clean restroom.

The TRA in the town of Medellin in northern Cebu was the first to be completed out of the initial batch of 10 TRAs that the DOT broke ground on last year.

During its turnover ceremony in July, Frasco announced that 15 more TRAs will be added to the initial batch of 10 TRAs.

The DOT broke ground on TRAs in Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon; Samal Island in Davao del Norte; the towns of Carcar, Carmen and Moalboal in Cebu; Dauis in Bohol; Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte; Roxas in Palawan; and Baguio City.

On Aug. 27, the DOT is set to inaugurate the TRA in Carcar in Cebu’s south in time for the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2023 celebration.

Dive dialogue

Recognizing the huge contribution of diving to the country’s tourism industry, Frasco also announced that the first tourism dive dialogue will take place in Cebu this September.

The dialogue is meant to consolidate all efforts of the national and local government as well as the private sector to ensure that policies will support the full expansion of dive tourism in the region.

Frasco also announced that the agency’s infrastructure arm Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority will put up hyperbaric chambers in Malapasuca and Dumaguete next year.

The DOT also plans to bring the Philippine Experience program to Negros and Siquijor next year.

“This drives the agency to push for the Philippine Experience program that seeks to expand and replicate Cebu’s success in tourism, in particular to its neighboring provinces by instituting a heritage, culture and arts caravan,” said Frasco during the media briefing.

Cruise ships

Cruise tourism is also another opportunity for Central Visayas to capture.

Frasco said more than 100 cruise calls are scheduled in the Philippines, of which four are expected to arrive in Central Visayas.

“We anticipate the massive growth of cruise tourism in this part of the country especially as very high demand from international cruise providers has been expressed. In fact, they are ready to start this year. We are excited to collaborate with the local government units to grow this tourism portfolio,” she said.

Studying English

Frasco also voiced plans to support the growing English as Second Language (ESL) industry in Cebu.

She said the DOT is working with concerned agencies to liberalize policies concerning the entry of ESL students to the country including the digitalization of requirements.

The DOT is also eyeing the expand ESL to other provinces in Central Visayas.

Other plans of the department include the restoration and rehabilitation of heritage sites in the southern part of Cebu as well as the rehabilitation of the coastline of Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol.

The DOT chief also said there are massive opportunities in the area of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (Mice), golf and medical tourism.

Frasco also announced Cebu’s hosting of the 36th joint meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organization Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and South Asia in 2024, saying the DOT is looking forward to showcasing the tourism jewels of Cebu and the region.

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