Cebu’s Comeback: DOT Forges Stronger Bonds for Tourism Recovery

Cebu, a pearl in the Visayas, has faced its share of challenges, but its spirit and tourism potential remain undimmed. The good news? The Department of Tourism (DOT) is doubling down on its commitment to accelerate Cebu’s tourism recovery and ensure sustained growth, particularly by strengthening its invaluable partnerships with the private sector.

Speaking at the 1st General Membership Meeting of the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. (HRRACI), Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco underscored the critical role of long-standing collaboration between the DOT and local industry stakeholders. This synergy is key to cementing Cebu’s position as a premier gateway to the Visayas.

“HRRACI has been a steadfast partner of the DOT, over the course of these many years that Cebu has faced one challenge after another, but also in these years, that Cebu has enjoyed relative success as far as tourism is concerned,” Frasco stated, highlighting the association’s unwavering support.

A recent testament to this robust partnership is the successful launch of the Visit Cebu Campaign with Cebu Pacific, a strategic initiative designed to inject vitality back into Cebu’s economy.

Cebu is Open for Business!

Secretary Frasco reiterated that Cebu is not just open, but thriving, continuing to perform strongly as the Philippines gears up to host the 45th Asean Tourism Forum later this year. This robust performance is a clear indicator of the province’s resilience and appeal.

The DOT’s ongoing engagement with tourism stakeholders is seamlessly aligned with the National Tourism Development Plan, ensuring that industry growth translates into tangible benefits for local communities—a core principle of sustainable tourism.

A Platform for Progress

During the gathering, Secretary Frasco also had the honor of leading the induction of HRRACI’s 2026 officers and members of the board of trustees. She took the opportunity to encourage the association to continue serving as a dynamic platform for:

• Dialogue: Fostering open communication channels.
• Innovation: Driving new ideas and solutions.
• Collective Action: Working together for common goals.

These elements are vital in advancing a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry for Cebu. With strong government-private sector alliances, Cebu is not just recovering; it’s poised for an even brighter, more sustainable tourism future.

Source: Original Article