Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco assured both local and foreign travelers that Cebu remains open and accessible to tourists despite the recent earthquake that struck the province.
Frasco emphasized that public areas, commercial centers, hotels, and tourism sites not affected by the tremor have been declared safe for visitors. She added that the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and Cebu’s major ports continue normal operations, ensuring that flights and ferry services remain undisrupted.
“We wish to clarify that here in the northern part of Cebu, relief efforts continue and many tourist sites remain closed. However, other parts of Cebu remain open to tourism. These include Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan, and other areas in the south of the province,” Secretary Frasco told reporters.
She encouraged tourists to coordinate with tour operators and travel agencies for updated advisories. “Again, tuloy po ang turismo dito sa Cebu,” Frasco affirmed, stressing that reliable information and proper coordination are key for a safe and enjoyable visit.
In its latest advisory, the DOT noted that while Cebu remains under a state of calamity, visitors may continue exploring the central and southern parts of the province. Tourists are advised, however, to anticipate possible road closures, limited services, and ongoing inspections in some areas.
Attractions currently open to the public include canyoneering in Badian, island-hopping adventures in Moalboal, and visits to cultural landmarks such as the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City and the Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City.
Following the September 30 magnitude 6.9 earthquake, Secretary Frasco immediately returned to Cebu, accompanying President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other cabinet officials in conducting inspections. On October 4, she personally visited the hard-hit towns of Medellin and San Remigio, as well as ground zero in Bogo City, where she distributed ₱3,000 in personal financial aid to 50 affected tourism workers.
Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s commitment to balancing safety and tourism continuity: “We remain vigilant, but we also want to reassure our tourists and tourism workers that Cebu is open and ready to welcome visitors. Tourism plays a vital role in recovery, and Cebu will continue to rise stronger.”