Last June 20 to 22, the spotlight was on Eastern Visayas as it hosted the Central Philippines Tourism Expo (CPTEx) 2025 at Robinsons Place Tacloban. For three days, the usually laidback city buzzed with excitement as over 200 stakeholders from seven regions gathered to celebrate the beauty of the Philippines—and to uncover hidden gems waiting to be explored.
From colorful booths to inspiring talks, CPTEx wasn’t just an expo—it was a window into the soul of the country’s central regions.
Eastern Visayas Takes Center Stage
As the third region to host CPTEx—after Iloilo and Puerto Princesa—Eastern Visayas finally got its moment to shine. More than just promoting beaches or islands, it was about sharing stories, culture, and the pride of communities ready to welcome curious travelers.
Tourism Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano summed it up perfectly: “Tourism is not just about attracting visitors, it is about building pride, creating livelihood, and bringing every region to the spotlight.”
From the iconic San Juanico Bridge connecting Leyte and Samar, to the sacred Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park in Basey, Samar, and the pristine Kalanggaman Island in Leyte, the region boasts breathtaking spots for both adventure seekers and chill travelers alike. Not to mention Limasawa Island, the site of the first Catholic Mass in the Philippines, for a meaningful dive into history.
What made this expo different was the familiarization tour prepared for visiting tour operators. It wasn’t just a showcase on paper—it was a true invitation to experience the landscapes, history, and warmth of the people of Eastern Visayas.
