International travelers continue to gravitate toward Central Visayas, reinforcing the region’s status as the Philippines’ premier tourism gateway. A comprehensive tourism sectoral review by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, drawing on data from the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Statistics Authority, shows that Central Visayas has remained the country’s top destination for foreign visitors over the past two decades.
From 2000 to 2024, the region welcomed an estimated 31.5 million international tourists, far outpacing the 19.6 million recorded by the National Capital Region. At the heart of this sustained momentum is Cebu, which continues to anchor the Philippines’ global tourism image with a mix of heritage, adventure, and world-class marine experiences.
From the historic landmarks of Cebu City to the cascades of Kawasan Falls in Badian, the sardine runs of Moalboal and whale shark encounters in Oslob, and the renowned dive sites of Malapascua and Bantayan Islands, Cebu’s diverse offerings have kept it firmly on the international travel map.
Beyond Cebu, Central Visayas’ broader appeal is bolstered by destinations that have gained global recognition. Bohol is home to the country’s first United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Global Geopark, as well as the iconic tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates.
Neighboring islands and provinces add further depth to the region’s tourism portfolio, from the sweeping sandbar of Manjuyod in Bais City and the laid-back charm of Dumaguete in Negros Oriental to the waterfalls and hidden coves of Siquijor, often called the island of fire.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the region’s consistent performance highlights the impact of coordinated, community-based tourism development. She noted that Central Visayas reflects the strength of sustained public-private partnerships among national agencies, local governments, industry stakeholders, and host communities.
Cebu, she added, is accelerating its tourism recovery and reinforcing its standing as a premier meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions destination following the successful hosting of major regional events, while Bohol continues to benefit from improved international flight connectivity. According to Frasco, this growth translates into jobs, investments, stronger local enterprises, and a reinforced reputation for Filipino hospitality.|
The review also underscores strong international tourism performance in other parts of the country. Western Visayas drew 11.9 million foreign visitors over the same period, largely fueled by Boracay, recently recognized as the world’s leading luxury island destination.
The Bicol Region recorded 8.9 million foreign arrivals, driven by attractions such as Mount Mayon and whale shark interactions in Donsol. Central Luzon, leveraging its proximity to Metro Manila and Clark International Airport, accounted for 8.3 million, while the MIMAROPA region logged more than 6.9 million international tourists, anchored by Palawan, a New Seven Wonders of Nature site and a UNESCO World Heritage destination.
While Central Visayas dominates international arrivals, CALABARZON has emerged as the country’s domestic travel leader. From 2008 to 2024, the Southern Tagalog region attracted 77.5 million local visitors, benefiting from its accessibility and appeal as a short-haul and weekend getaway for Metro Manila residents. The PIDS noted that this ease of access has made CALABARZON a prime choice for frequent domestic travel.
Frasco emphasized that the strength of regional tourism highlights the crucial role of domestic travel in sustaining the industry. She said Filipino travelers continue to drive economic activity, support local businesses, and generate employment nationwide, underscoring the need to further improve infrastructure, accessibility, and tourism experiences to build a more resilient and inclusive sector.
Other regions have also posted robust domestic tourism numbers, with Bicol recording 51.7 million local travelers, followed by Central Visayas with 45.9 million, Central Luzon with 44.2 million, and Western Visayas with 38.2 million. In 2024 alone, CALABARZON logged more than 10.8 million overnight travelers, according to DOT regional data.
Tourism’s growing role as an economic engine is further reflected in spending figures. The Philippines now ranks first in Southeast Asia in domestic tourism expenditure, accounting for more than one-third of the region’s total. In 2024, domestic tourism spending reached USD 63.4 billion and is projected to rise to USD 70.8 billion in 2025, based on estimates from the World Travel and Tourism Council.
These findings are detailed in the PIDS discussion paper Philippine Tourism Sectoral Review (2000 to 2025): From Promise to Power – Accelerating the Philippines’ Tourism Transformation toward Sustainability, Competitiveness, and Inclusion, which chronicles the sector’s evolution over the past 25 years and outlines the path forward for a more competitive and inclusive Philippine tourism industry.