South Koreans still top foreign tourists in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines — South Koreans continue to be the top tourists visiting Cebu, according to data gathered by the Department of Tourism Central Visayas (DOT-7).

The DOT-7 record showed 1.028 million Koreans visited Cebu last year, demonstrating the province remains a popular destination for both local and international tourists.

This is evident from the tourist arrival numbers recorded by DOT-7 last year, with 5.1 million tourists visiting Cebu in 2024.

DOT-7 Regional Director Judy Gabato stated that out of the 7.5 million tourist arrivals in the region, 1.9 million were foreigners, and 3.2 million were domestic tourists.

According to the same DOT-7 data, following South Korea in the list of visitors to Cebu are the USA (234,755); Japan (226,755); China (127,084); Taiwan (88,728); Australia (71,872); Germany (9,341); France (54,448); the United Kingdom (53,459); and Canada (41,949).

The cultural heritage and tourism offerings of Cebu and Bohol have significantly contributed to the number of visitors.

The tourism sector also created more job opportunities for locals, with 1.5 million direct and indirect jobs generated in the region last year.

All-Time High

Gabato reported that the region recorded a total of 7,517,450 visitors based on overnight stay data from accommodation establishments.

This surge in visitors significantly boosted the local economy, generating P125.92 billion in revenue

through the efforts of provincial, city, and municipal tourism offices.

Gabato noted that the tourism department has set an annual target of a 10 percent increase in arrivals, and this year s figures indicate substantial progress toward that goal.

Cebu, as the region's leading destination, recorded five million arrivals, comprising both domestic and foreign tourists.

A key factor in the increased revenue generation is the extended length of stay among tourists.

Compared to 2019, when the average stay was nine nights, visitors now spend an average of 11 nights in the region, with an expenditure per arrival of $2,073.

Gabato shared that this economic boost is expected to further support tourism development initiatives and infrastructure improvements in the coming years.

 We will make sure that we are ready to showcase our destination by focusing on sustainable tourism resiliency and inclusive approaches that will benefit both travelers and our community,  she said.

Currently, around 1.5 million Filipinos in Central Visayas are employed in direct and indirect tourism jobs.

 We equip our frontliners with the best skills to ensure our travelers have a truly memorable experience,  Gabato added.

In 2024, the top ten sources of international tourist arrivals in Central Visayas were South Korea, the United States, Japan, China, Taiwan, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

The director also mentioned that they are strengthening the accreditation of accommodations, including hotels, inns, resorts, and the popular choice of tourists, Airbnb.

As of December 31, 2024, there were a total of 2,677 accredited primary and secondary tourism establishments in Central Visayas.

This accreditation ensures quality service and facilities, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Additionally, the DOT has introduced a progressive accreditation system for Airbnb, setting new standards for short-term rental accommodations.    Jonnavie Villa, LPM (CEBU NEWS)