Cebu spearheads Philippine tourism drive

MANILA, Philippines — Cebu hosted the recently concluded 2026 World’s Best Island Travel and Trade Expo, which brought new investment prospects, forged stronger partnerships among Philippine island destinations, and presented business opportunities for local enterprises.

The three-day event held at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Area brought together tourism stakeholders, travel professionals, businesses and potential investors. It focused on expanding markets, strengthening inter-island connections and encouraging sustainable development.

“By connecting our island destinations and strengthening our partnerships, we can reach wider markets, encourage investments, and create more opportunities for our people. Working together allows us to showcase the Philippines while ensuring that development brings meaningful benefits to our communities,”  Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro said.

Cebu businessman and aviation executive Blake Nelson Go said the initiative contributes to the Marcos administration’s efforts to promote economic development as these kind of gatherings help encourage investments, generate livelihood opportunities, and strengthen cooperation among Philippine destinations, complementing broader efforts to expand economic activity and create jobs.

“The expo created opportunities for businesses and communities by bringing destinations and industry stakeholders together. Gov. Baricuatro’s initiative showed how local efforts could support economic development and complement the national government’s objectives under President Marcos,” Go said.

He noted that the benefits of increased visitor activity could extend to hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, tour operators, retailers and small businesses. He also pointed to the importance of accessibility and cooperation between government and the private sector in translating opportunities into economic gains.