Central Visayas is starting to feel the effects of a slowdown in tourist spending, as bookings and revenues decline amid global uncertainties affecting travel demand.
During a recent coordination meeting led by the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas (DOT 7), stakeholders reported fewer visitors and early signs of booking cancellations affecting transport, hotels, and tour operations.
While some international flights continue to operate, cancellations on select routes have added uncertainty, particularly for long-haul travelers.
On the ground, rising costs are making travel within the region more expensive.
Bohol Tourism Office head Joanne Pinat noted higher ferry rates for the Cebu-Bohol route, along with increased prices for island-hopping tours and land transport.
Hotel operators are also adjusting expectations. Mia Singson-Leon, president of the Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI), said resort occupancy may hover between 50 and 60 percent, while city hotels could perform below that range.
Despite the decline, stakeholders emphasized protecting jobs as a priority.
“Responses must look towards the preservation of livelihoods as the ultimate goal during this period,” participants said.
Julie Alegrado-Vergara, co-chairperson of the Cebu Provincial Tourism Council, added that recommendations—including prioritizing worker welfare—will be presented at the provincial level.
Proposed measures include developing a gastronomy circuit in northern Cebu and encouraging tourists to stay longer in single destinations to reduce transport costs.
DOT-7 is coordinating with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to identify alternative livelihoods for affected workers.
DOT-7 Officer-in-Charge Gelena Asis-Dimpas described the sector’s response as a “proactive and compassionate stance,” highlighting efforts to sustain operations while adapting to the slowdown.
The initiative is part of the Central Visayas Tourism Coordination and Resilience (CV-CoRe) Network, aligned with the national government’s UPLIFT (Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food and Transport) framework.
To stimulate demand, at least 22 Cebu hotels and resorts have launched promotions offering up to 50 percent off, alongside “workcation” and “staycation” packages targeting domestic travelers and emerging international markets.
Stakeholders are also shifting focus toward Asia-Pacific markets—including China, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia—while continuing participation in travel exchanges and adjusting long-haul campaigns.
Despite the challenges, industry leaders see opportunities to strengthen the workforce through expanded training programs, including the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence.
Cebu’s tourism officials and provincial government are expected to meet soon to further refine strategies aimed at building resilience in the sector. (LLP)
Image: Vetty Mata
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