Dwindling tourism

Cebu’s tourism industry, long known for its resilience, is once again put to the test. The recent 6.9-magnitude quake that rattled the province on September 30 may have lasted only seconds, but its aftershocks continue to reverberate, and at this time through empty hotel rooms and cancelled tour bookings. One of the core sectors that puts Cebu on the map continues to be threatened.

The Hotel, Resort, and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC) admits that the impact has been staggering. According to HRRAC President Mia Singson-Leon, cancellations poured in for October and November, hitting both group and individual bookings. The losses already run into the millions. The reasons are concerns over safety, should another earthquake hit the city. Guests also worry about cancelled flights or boat trips, fearing they might get stranded if another calamity strikes.

The problem isn’t just fear. Truth be told, it’s misinformation too. Rumors of widespread damage in Central and Southern Cebu have circulated online, discouraging travelers from pushing through with their trips. In reality, most roads and bridges remain intact. The industry is wary that tourism jobs and livelihoods are at risk if this continues. It’s a sobering thought. Every cancelled booking doesn’t just affect hotel owners. Those affected include front desk clerks, tour guides, transport providers, and vendors who depend on visitors’ spending.

Still, there’s reason to stay hopeful. The HRRAC continues to reassure the public that Cebu’s hospitality sector remains open and safe. Rigorous safety checks are constantly done. In fact, key destinations such as Mactan, Moalboal, Badian, and Cebu City have largely been spared. The beaches are still turquoise, the waterfalls still cascade, and the city’s warmth remains.

The Cebu Association of Tour Guides (CATG) has also seen a worrying decline in tour bookings. CATG president PG Guba said many tourists have either postponed or canceled trips through the rest of the year. This even after engineers cleared tourist sites and accommodations as safe. The situation is “alarming”, especially since this was supposed to be their peak season following the lean months of June and July. The group has even implemented safety protocols to ensure guests know what to do in case another tremor occurs.

Meanwhile, up north in Bantayan Island, local officials are eager to set the record straight. Councilor Jaypee Lao of Santa Fe clarified that their tourism operations remain fully open despite a few cancellations. Viral photos showing Hagnaya Port submerged in water, he said, were taken during high tide is a normal occurrence. There was no major damage or injuries, and all tourist facilities, accommodations, transport services, and attractions are open.

For travelers, that means the island’s powdery white beaches and calm turquoise waters await. It is untouched, unbroken, and ready to welcome everyone back. Cebu may be shaken, but its spirit stands firm. The call now is simple: believe the facts, not the fear. If we want to retain Cebu as thriving then let’s help each other. The province’s beauty and hospitality are still here, waiting to be rediscovered.