CEBU CITY — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has assured travelers that Cebu remains safe, accessible, and ready to welcome visitors despite the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck the province last September. All scheduled tourism events and activities will proceed as planned, signaling a strong vote of confidence in the island’s recovery and resilience.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco affirmed that tourism operations across Cebu and the Central Visayas are in full swing, with most public areas, accommodations, and heritage sites already inspected and cleared by authorities.
“Tourism in Cebu continues not only to highlight the island’s culture, history, and natural beauty but also to sustain the livelihood of thousands of tourism workers who rely on this vibrant industry,” Frasco said.
Post-Quake Recovery Efforts
Following the September 30 earthquake centered in Bogo City, the DOT’s Regional Office VII immediately conducted post-disaster inspections and coordinated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Small Business Corporation (SB Corp), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to fast-track aid and recovery programs.
A total of 2,062 affected tourism workers have received food packs, while emergency cash assistance and livelihood training are being processed. The DOT also partnered with DTI and SB Corp through the MSME Financing Caravan to provide low-interest loans to affected enterprises. Coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues for infrastructure inspection and repairs, while TESDA has launched alternative livelihood and skills training programs for displaced workers.
Cebu’s Tourism Facilities Remain Operational
According to DOT-7’s latest situation report, Cebu’s key transport hubs—including Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Cebu Baseport, and seaports in Santa Fe, Maya, and Kawit—remain fully operational, ensuring smooth access for both domestic and international travelers.
Major hotels such as Shangri-La Mactan, Crimson Resort & Spa, Radisson Blu, Seda Ayala Center, Waterfront Cebu City, Quest Hotel, and Dusit Thani Mactan have all been declared structurally sound and remain open. Establishments that reported minor damage have completed repairs and resumed normal operations, with no guest injuries recorded.
Cebu’s diving and island attractions, including Malapascua and Gato Island, also remain safe following marine ecosystem assessments by local authorities and accredited dive operators.
Moving Forward: Events and Heritage Restoration
The DOT confirmed that all scheduled events in Cebu—including regional promotions and diving activities—will push through in the coming weeks to reaffirm the province’s readiness and to support local tourism stakeholders.
Secretary Frasco added that the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is working closely with heritage and cultural agencies, as well as the Archdiocese of Cebu, for the restoration of damaged churches and historical sites in San Remigio, Bantayan, and Tabogon.
“We deeply thank our tourism frontliners and communities whose courage and hospitality never wavered amid challenges. The Cebuano spirit of resilience shines brighter than ever—Cebu remains a destination to love, explore, and support,” Frasco said.
The DOT likewise reassured travelers that other destinations in Central Visayas, including Bohol, are safe and open to visitors after experiencing only brief disruptions in tourism activities.
Cebu’s message to the world is clear: the island stands strong, its people steadfast, and its doors wide open to travelers ready to rediscover its beauty.