At A Glance
- Cebu's tourism operations remain safe and fully operational after the magnitude 6.9 earthquake.
- DOT confirmed that major destinations and facilities are structurally sound and open to visitors.
- More than 2,000 affected tourism workers received food and livelihood assistance.
- DOT, DTI, and SB Corp rolled out support programs for quake-hit tourism enterprises.
- Ongoing tourism events and restoration projects underscore Cebu's resilience.
Tourism activities in Cebu are regaining momentum as the province’s operations remain safe and fully operational following last month’s magnitude 6.9 earthquake, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Monday, Oct. 27.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said inspections confirmed that Cebu’s infrastructure and tourism facilities are structurally sound, which allowed Central Visayas region to continue hosting visitors safely.
Since the Sept. 30 tremor that struck Bogo City, DOT–Region VII has conducted post-disaster assessments to ensure the safety of key tourism areas.
The Department has also worked closely with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Small Business Corporation (SB Corp), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and local government units to implement immediate aid and recovery measures.
A total of 2,062 affected tourism workers have received food assistance, while cash-for-work and livelihood programs are being prepared in coordination with national agencies.
To further assist tourism enterprises, DOT is partnering with DTI and SB Corp through the MSME Financing Caravan to provide accessible loan packages to businesses affected by the quake.
Frasco said the department is also collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the inspection and repair of affected establishments and access roads, while TESDA is offering skills training and alternative livelihood opportunities for displaced workers.
According to DOT–7’s latest report, Cebu’s main gateways—including Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Cebu Baseport, and the ports of Santa Fe, Maya, and Kawit—are fully operational.
Major hotels such as Shangri-La Mactan, Crimson Resort, Radisson Blu, Seda Ayala Center, Waterfront Cebu, Quest Hotel, and Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu likewise remain open with no reported structural damage.
Frasco said DOT will proceed with its scheduled tourism events in Cebu, including promotional and diving-related activities, underscoring the province’s resilience and readiness to welcome travelers.
She added that through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the department is working with heritage agencies and the Archdiocese of Cebu on the restoration of damaged churches and historical structures in San Remigio, Bantayan, and Tabogon.
“We commend our tourism frontliners and communities for their strength and hospitality. Cebu’s resilience continues to shine through, proving it remains a destination to love, explore, and support,” Frasco said.
Frasco also noted that other destinations in Central Visayas, including Bohol, have resumed normal tourism operations following temporary disruptions.