Cebu on wedding tourism: A growing identity, says guv

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu has widened its tourism industry and local enterprises strength as it showcases its growing identity as a wedding destination, particularly in the Second and Sixth Districts, including Lapu-Lapu City.

This came as Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro led the opening of “Kasalan sa Segundo og Sixto Distrito: Our Wedding Destinations of Cebu,” an exhibit highlighting the province’s wedding tourism offerings.

In her message, Baricuatro welcomed stakeholders and visitors to what she described as another exciting showcase, emphasizing that the exhibit goes beyond weddings and serves as a broader presentation of Cebu’s destinations, products, services, and cultural identity.

The governor noted that while weddings symbolize love and celebration, the exhibit also reflects the creativity, craftsmanship, and hospitality of Cebuano communities, which she said continue to define the province’s tourism identity.

Baricuatro encouraged the public to explore Districts 2 and 6, along with Lapu-Lapu City, highlighting their potential not only as wedding destinations but also as hubs for leisure, culture, business, and meaningful travel experiences.

She also cited the success of previous “Our Cebu” exhibits, noting that the first three editions generated more than P1.1 million in combined sales from participating local government units, reflecting strong local participation and economic impact.

“This remarkable achievement demonstrates how Cebu Province remains committed in supporting initiatives that enhance tourism development, strengthen local enterprises, and create sustainable livelihoods for our people,” Baricuatro said.

The governor further urged local government units, tourism stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and community partners to continue collaborating in developing authentic, sustainable, and distinctly Cebuano tourism products.

She also expressed gratitude to Robinsons Galleria Cebu for its continued partnership, saying the venue has provided a valuable platform for LGUs to showcase their destinations and local products to a wider audience.

Baricuatro said the exhibit should serve as a platform for forging stronger partnerships, increasing tourism arrivals, and expanding opportunities for local communities, as she emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism development.

“May this exhibit inspire new partnerships, attract more visitors, and open greater opportunities for our communities as we celebrate the creativity of the Sugboanon, the richness of Cebuano heritage, and our shared commitment to sustainable tourism development that uplifts lives and protects our future,” she said.

The three-day event will culminate today, June 21, 2026.

Meanwhile, Cebu Province Tourism Officer Rowena Montecillo highlighted the expanding potential of wedding tourism in the province, stressing Cebu’s diverse destinations, strong hospitality sector, and the economic benefits generated by destination weddings.

Montecillo emphasized that Cebu continues to stand out as a premier wedding destination, citing a wide range of locations that cater to different styles, from heritage churches and cultural towns to coastal and luxury resort settings.

She pointed to southern Cebu destinations such as Alcoy, Oslob, and Santander, as well as other coastal municipalities, as ideal venues for nature-inspired and romantic beach weddings. She also noted the historical and cultural appeal of heritage areas such as Alcala and Malabuyoc, which offer traditional church weddings surrounded by local history and identity.

In contrast, she highlighted the urban and modern appeal of Mandaue City and Consolacion, which provide accessible venues, hotels, and event facilities suited for large receptions and contemporary celebrations.

Meanwhile, island and waterfront destinations such as Cordova and Lapu-Lapu City were cited for their world-class resorts and scenic coastal settings, which, the tourism office highlighted, make them attractive for destination weddings and sunset ceremonies.

Montecillo said these diverse settings reflect Cebu’s strength as a unified tourism destination, where couples can choose from church, beach, garden, or luxury resort settings depending on their preferences.

She further stressed that beyond venues, Cebu’s real advantage lies in its people, crediting wedding planners, event coordinators, local government units, and communities for delivering seamless and memorable wedding experiences.

According to Montecillo, wedding tourism not only celebrates love but also drives economic activity by supporting small and medium enterprises, strengthening local livelihoods, and encouraging wider exploration of the province. — (FREEMAN)