Should Cebu — not just Metro Manila — take center stage as the Philippines’ official main tourism gateway?
Elmer Catulpos, Founder and CEO of Brigada and the Delightful Philippines initiative, believes the time has come — and perhaps, it’s long overdue.
“Cebu isn’t just another destination,” Catulpos says. “It’s the starting point for the kind of soulful, scenic, unforgettable adventure that travelers expect from the Philippines. So why not welcome them right where the magic begins?”
For decades, Metro Manila has served as the country’s primary entry point for international travelers. And as the national capital, it will always play a vital role in business, history, and culture.
But from the eyes of many travelers, when they dream of the Philippines, they picture crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, tropical islands, and warm, smiling locals.
They imagine Cebu, Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao.
So why not align our tourism gateway with the experience visitors are truly seeking?
Cebu’s strengths are undeniable:
A world-class international airport with Filipino-themed interiors and hospitality — far less congested than Manila’s.
Seamless connections to top destinations — from Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao to Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga, plus nearby gems like Bohol, Siquijor, and Dumaguete.
Add to that a vibrant cultural identity and deeply rooted heritage — a perfect introduction to Filipino warmth and charm.
“Tourism isn’t about boardrooms — it’s about breathtaking moments,” Catulpos adds. “And Cebu is built for that.”
In Cebu, island-hopping begins just minutes from the city. Pristine beaches and turquoise waters are within easy reach — and from there, more delightful adventures unfold.
But beyond beauty lies practical urgency.
With NAIA undergoing major repairs and facing congestion challenges, ATR aircraft bound for key island destinations have already been rerouted through Clark. While Clark remains an important regional hub, this logistical detour can be confusing and inconvenient for first-time international visitors unfamiliar with local geography.
“We need to make travel easier, not harder,” Catulpos explains. “Why should tourists land at one airport, then transfer to another just to reach the destinations they came here for?”
Positioning Cebu as the Philippines’ official tourism gateway — not to replace Manila, but to complement it — could create a smoother, more memorable, and tourist-friendly arrival experience.
When Cebu takes on this expanded role, the entire country stands to benefit — from job creation and economic activity to increased tourism flow across regions. This isn’t a regional agenda — it’s a national opportunity.
The Brigada nation-building initiative, Delightful Philippines, is stepping up to promote Cebu as a strategic entry point. We humbly hope the Department of Tourism will consider this idea as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen Philippine tourism.
Brigada, through this advocacy, is inviting Cebuanos, tourism advocates, and industry leaders across the country to rally behind this shared vision.
“If we truly believe this can help our country, then we don’t need to wait. We can start now,” Catulpos emphasizes.
He encourages Cebuanos to support this initiative not just for Cebu, but as a contribution to national development.
“Cebu may benefit directly, but the impact will ripple nationwide — uplifting livelihoods, strengthening regional economies, and contributing to our collective pride as Filipinos.”
This movement, he adds, is about more than just airport logistics. It’s about nation-building through tourism — making the Philippines easier to explore, more delightful to experience, and better positioned for inclusive and sustainable growth.
So — is Cebu the new official tourism gateway of the Philippines?
If Brigada’s vision gains traction, it won’t just be a regional shift.
It will be a collaborative step toward a smarter, stronger, and more connected Philippine tourism future.
Erine Dejecacion is a contributor for Brigadanews.ph and an Anchor of Di Pwede Yan on Brigada News TV. A media practitioner since 2016, she holds a degree in Political Science and has completed her Juris Doctor. Beyond the studio, Erine has a passion for travel—exploring hidden corners of the Philippines, capturing stories through photography, and finding inspiration in every destination she visits.