Cebu Attracts More than One Lakh Visitors During the Christmas Season, Highlighting their Continued Popularity as a Top Holiday Destination - Travel And Tour World
Home
»
TOURISM NEWS
»
Cebu Attracts More than One Lakh Visitors During the Christmas Season, Highlighting their Continued Popularity as a Top Holiday Destination
According to the latest report from DOT, Cebu has maintained its position as one of the most opted-for destinations for local tourists to spend their Christmas holidays. It welcomed 102,124 visitors in the province between December 15 and December 28, 2025, securing the province as the second most opted-for destination in the Philippines for that period, next only to world-famous Boracay in Western Visayas.
Tourism in Cebu has continued to be broad-based, ranging from visitors looking at its beautiful beaches to those wanting to visit the cultural and historical sites in the Cebu City area. After all that the region suffered early this year, with natural calamities being the worst case, their tourism sector in general showed resilience, with Cebu having a good recovery and further showing consistency in the number of visitors it receives.
Boracay Leads the Way in Visitor Numbers
Topping the list was Boracay, the renowned tropical beach destination in Western Visayas, which recorded a massive influx of 118,745 visitors during the same period. In addition to Filipino tourists, the island also attracted foreign visitors, including cruise passengers from international vessels like Star Navigator and Norwegian Sun, which made multiple port calls during the festive season.
The popularity of Boracay continues to grow, further cementing its status as one of the Philippines’ premier beach destinations. It’s not just about the beaches — Boracay also offers visitors a wide range of activities from water sports to vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal holiday destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Panglao Island Also Draws in Tourists
Panglao Island, located in Bohol, came in third with 62,240 visitors. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, Panglao remains a favorite among travelers looking to experience a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of Boracay. Its growing reputation as an eco-tourism hub and its proximity to Bohol’s historical and cultural attractions make it an attractive destination for both international and domestic tourists.
Sustained Domestic Travel in Central Visayas
The Department of Tourism (DOT) attributed the surge in visitor numbers to the strong public participation in domestic travel, particularly in Central Visayas, despite the region facing natural calamities earlier in the year. The region’s resilience has played a crucial role in ensuring that destinations like Cebu, Bohol, and Boracay continue to thrive even amid challenging circumstances.
Other provinces in Central Visayas, such as Siquijor, have also posted strong figures, with Siquijor seeing an increase in holiday travelers attracted by its serene beaches, waterfalls, and mystic allure.
Growing Popularity of Other Philippine Regions During the Holidays
Beyond Cebu and Boracay, other parts of the country also saw significant tourist arrivals during the long Christmas break. For example, Baguio City, with its cooler climate and festive atmosphere, recorded 117,137 visitors, maintaining its status as a beloved Christmas destination. Known for its iconic parks, markets, and holiday displays, Baguio continues to draw tourists looking for a classic winter holiday experience in the Philippines.
In Bicol, the provinces of Camarines Sur and Albay attracted 92,000 and 45,000 visitors, respectively, thanks to their scenic landscapes and famous tourist sites like Mayon Volcano and the whale shark sanctuaries in Donsol.
Island and Nature Destinations Remain a Key Draw
Island destinations like El Nido in Palawan, Coron, and Puerto Galera also remain favorites for those seeking a tropical getaway. El Nido alone recorded 40,000 tourists, showcasing the continued demand for beach resorts and island tours. As many travelers look to enjoy a “summer in December”, these island destinations offer a perfect escape during the holiday season.
In Mindanao, Siargao Island saw 32,742 tourists as it continues to grow in popularity, while Sarangani Province, known for its natural beauty and adventure offerings, welcomed 26,191 visitors.
Metro Manila’s Intramuros Lights Up the Holidays
In Metro Manila, Intramuros, the historic walled city, emerged as a significant holiday attraction. Tourists flocked to the illuminated streets, churches, and heritage landmarks like the Manila Cathedral during the Christmas season, enjoying both the cultural heritage and festive atmosphere that the area offers.
Future Tourism Growth: Continued Expansion of Central Visayas as a Key Hub
Looking ahead, the Philippine tourism sector is poised for continued growth, particularly in Central Visayas, where Cebu, Bohol, and other nearby destinations are becoming increasingly popular for domestic and international tourists. The success seen during the Christmas holiday season will serve as a foundation for future growth, with more visitors expected to flock to the region in the coming years.
Cebu, in particular, is expected to continue expanding its appeal as a key tourism hub, supported by government efforts to improve infrastructure, enhance tourism offerings, and promote sustainable travel practices. The tourism recovery from natural calamities earlier in the year also demonstrates the resilience of the region’s tourism sector, with Cebu at the forefront of this transformation.
Central Visayas to Benefit from Sustainable Tourism Development
As eco-tourism continues to gain traction globally, Central Visayas’ focus on sustainability will be critical in maintaining long-term tourism growth. With the continued rise in demand for eco-conscious travel options, the region is poised to attract more tourists seeking sustainable and experiential travel experiences. This trend is expected to drive investment in eco-friendly accommodations, green tourism initiatives, and nature-based attractions, ensuring that the region remains a sought-after destination for years to come.
A Bright Future for Philippine Tourism
The impressive increase in domestic tourism for the Christmas season shows the resilience of the Philippine tourism industry, particularly in Cebu and other areas of Central Visayas. With greater public involvement, strategic development of tourist spots, and infrastructure improvements, the future of the Philippine tourism industry looks bright for the year 2026. Rich cultural and natural attractions, aside from an improved package offering tourism, will ensure that it remains a major destination for Filipinos and international visitors alike.
As the Central Visayas continues to develop and expand its tourism infrastructure, Cebu and its environs are set to become even more integral to the Philippines’ tourism growth strategy, luring a growing number of tourists seeking new and sustainable travel experiences.
