Travelers flying through Cebu can explore more destinations across the Visayas under a new tourism campaign encouraging multi-island trips.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) launched the “Discover the Visayas, #FlyViaCebu” campaign after signing a memorandum of understanding on October 23 at the airport.
With the theme “One Gateway. More Islands,” the initiative initially promotes six destinations: Lapu-Lapu, Panglao, Boracay, Siquijor, Guimaras, and Biliran.
Cebu Connects Travelers to More Islands
The campaign brings together the DOT, PCCI through the Visayas Island-Chamber Tourism Alliance (VITA), and MCIA to promote tourism offerings across the region.
MCIA will serve as the main gateway for domestic and international travelers, connecting passengers arriving in Cebu to onward air, sea, and land transportation options across the Visayas.
The airport's CEB Connects service facilitates transfers across its 28 domestic and 13 international destinations. Domestic-to-domestic connections require at least 35 minutes, while domestic-to-international and international-to-domestic transfers need a minimum of 60 minutes.
Passengers can also have their baggage transferred automatically to connecting flights, eliminating the need to reclaim and recheck luggage during layovers.
Six Destinations Offer Varied Experiences
The campaign highlights the different attractions travelers can enjoy across the participating destinations.
Lapu-Lapu features beaches, marine attractions, and historical sites, while Panglao offers white-sand shores and diving opportunities. Boracay is known for its beaches, island activities, dining, and nightlife.
Siquijor offers waterfalls, beaches, and cultural experiences, while Guimaras showcases its mangoes and scenic landscapes. Biliran, meanwhile, features waterfalls, island escapes, and nature-based activities.
The initiative aims to encourage visitors to include multiple destinations in their itineraries instead of limiting their trips to one island.
Trip.com, Klook Support Travel Planning
The campaign has partnered with Trip.com for flight and hotel bookings and Klook for activities and experiences. Travelers can also access available partner deals and promotional offers.
The memorandum was signed by MCIA General Manager Ricia Vinelli Montejo, PCCI President Ferdinand Ferrer, and DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Development Planning Stanley Ng.
Witnesses included Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi Chan, VITA Chairman Anthony Noel, Aboitiz InfraCapital executives Christopher Camba and Blessie Cruz, PCCI representatives Jobert Peñaflorida and Felix Taguiam, and DOT Region 7 Director Gelena Asis-Dimpas.