DOT-7: Cebu’s tourism sector continues to grow, rather than a restart

CEBU CITY—The Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region VII bared that Cebu’s tourism sector is thriving, with significant passenger numbers and new international routes, indicating continuous growth rather than a restart, emphasizing the industry’s
resilience.

“I commend the Cebu Travel Catalogue International, the reunion aspect of the event and the collective experience and contributions of the industry professionals present with their resilience through various seasons and disruptions.  The event is a space where Cebu's strengths in connections, creativity, and confidence are showcased,” said DOT-7 regional director, Gelena Asis-Dimpas, in her message at the opening of the Cebu Travel Catalogue International (CTCI) 2026, February 13 at the Ayala Center Mall Cebu.

More than 80 exhibitors composed of travel agencies, airline companies, hotels and resorts, travel and tour operators and banks gathered at the Center Stage of Ayala Mall Cebu for the 3-day, February 13-15 Cebu Travel Catalogue International (CTCI) 2026, celebrating 10 years of endless journeys under the theme, “Wander Beyond Borders.”

CTCI 2026 chair and Cebu Travel & Tours Association (CTTA) Vice-president, Angelita Dy shared that over the past decade, CTCI has evolved from a regional travel showcase into a trusted industry platform. It continues to connect businesses and travelers to their dream destinations, while strengthening Cebu’s presence in both local and international tourism networks.

“Now that we have reached ten years of Endless Journeys, we reaffirm our commitment to building global connections. We believe travel experiences should go beyond borders.  CTCI 2026 is open to the public at Ayala Center Cebu while industry stakeholders and travelers continue shaping the future of travel. As the world comes closer, the journey continues,” Dy said.

Dimpas on the other hand, went on to emphasize the importance of valuing both outbound and inbound travel movements, highlighting the role of travel agencies in navigating shifting preferences and new destinations.  Outbound travels keep Cebuanos present and expose travelers to new cultures and inspirations.

She highlighted the role of travel agencies and tour operators in guiding families, first-timers, returning OFWs, and young people choosing tourism as a field of study, Dimpas mentioned the increasing number of students enrolling in tourism courses, indicating a positive outlook for the future of the industry.

“Inbound travel uplifts communities, sustain jobs, support local businesses, and diversify the tourism portfolio.  The full support of the province and local government units, including the mayor, in hosting the ASEAN tourism forum and the Philippine tourism travel expo, reflects on the positive momentum and strong confidence seen in the 1.3 million passengers MCIA handled in January 2026, a significant increase from previous years,” Dimpas noted.

The launch of the Cebu MICE manual and the Philippine MICE manual at various events is a sign of growth and expansion and encourages travel agencies to strengthen ties with partners abroad to ensure Cebu remains competitive and visible in the global tourism landscape, Dimpas added.

The challenges and opportunities in tourism depend on how to navigate shifts and weather changes but the sector is still optimistic about the positive figures and expanding routes, the importance of travel agencies in maintaining connections and ensuring Cebu's presence in global conversations, Dimpas reiterated the role of travel agencies in partnering with agents abroad and keeping the region competitive and compelling.

“Book your flight now and be ambassadors of Cebu and the many reasons why visitors should come to the islands of Cebu, Bohol and the many islands in the Philippines,” Dimpas concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)