Cebu: The Department of Tourism (DOT) has teamed up with Cebu Pacific, a low-cost airline, and the Hotel, Resort, and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. (HRRACI) to introduce enticing travel incentives and accommodation promotions to stimulate tourism in Cebu. This initiative comes in the wake of recent natural calamities that have impacted the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the collaboration was sealed with a memorandum of understanding signed during the unveiling of the 'Visit Cebu' campaign. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the program is designed to rejuvenate tourism activities and bolster local businesses and employment.

The agreement offers foreign tourists discounted flights, hotel vouchers, and promotional packages from participating hotels and resorts in Cebu. Selected visitors may also benefit from a complimentary one-night stay, subject to specific program guidelines.

The 'Visit Cebu' campaign targets six major markets, namely Korea, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, and is bolstered by digital promotions and Cebu Pacific's existing international routes to the province. HRRACI President Mia Leon stated that the association is working with its members to deliver accommodation deals and manage voucher distribution.

Cebu Pacific will provide flight support for eligible travelers and tourism stakeholders, including those involved in familiarization tours and business-to-business sessions. The campaign includes planned familiarization trips to Moalboal and Malapascua, focusing on Cebu's dive tourism, alongside activities related to the upcoming Philippine Dive Experience organized by the DOT.

Tourism officials noted that this initiative represents ongoing collaboration between the government and private sector to aid Cebu's tourism industry recovery and attract more visitors in the future months.