The Department of Tourism (DOT) has assured that all scheduled events and activities in Cebu will proceed, reporting that the island province remains safe and open to visitors following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in September and subsequent aftershocks.
DOT Secretary Christina Frasco encouraged continued tourism operations in Cebu not only to attract visitors to its rich culture, history and natural beauty but also “to sustain the livelihood of our tourism stakeholders.” She noted that tourism operations across Cebu and Central Visayas have been restored after a series of inspections.
Since the Sept. 30 quake in Bogo City, the DOT, through its Regional Office VII, has conducted post-disaster inspections and extended assistance to about 2,062 affected tourism workers, who have received food aid. Cash assistance and livelihood training are now being processed.
Major hotels, ports and airports in Cebu, including the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and key seaports, are fully operational, according to DOT-Region VII’s latest report.
Top hotels such as Shangri-La Mactan, Radisson Blu, Crimson, Seda, Waterfront, Quest, and Dusit Thani have reported no structural damage and remain open.
Dive and island destinations like Malapascua and Gato Island are also safe for tours and diving activities, based on assessments by the provincial government and accredited operators, the DOT said.
The DOT said it would push through with its upcoming tourism and diving events in Cebu to highlight the province’s resilience and readiness to welcome visitors.
The department, through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), is also coordinating with heritage agencies and the Archdiocese of Cebu for the restoration of damaged churches and historical sites in San Remigio, Bantayan and Tabogon.
The DOT said it continues to work with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Small Business Corp. (SB Corp.) to extend loans to affected enterprises, while coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) ensures inspection and repair of tourism establishments and access roads.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is also providing alternative livelihood and skills training to displaced workers.
The DOT said other Central Visayas destinations such as Bohol, which saw temporary tour cancellations, are now fully open and ready to receive visitors.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to our tourism frontliners and communities for their strength and hospitality. The spirit of Cebuano resilience continues to shine through, as Cebu remains a destination to love, explore, and support,” Frasco said.
