Central Visayas has remained the Philippines’ most visited region by foreign travelers for 25 consecutive years.
A long-term audit by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) showed the region recorded 31.5 million foreign arrivals from 2000 to 2024, the highest among all regions, surpassing even Metro Manila. The findings were published in the Philippine Tourism Sectoral Review (2000 to 2025), a comprehensive assessment of the country’s tourism performance.
Cebu continues to serve as the primary international gateway driving the region’s growth. Central Visayas also ranked second in domestic tourism, drawing 60.1 million local travelers during the same period, next only to Calabarzon. Around 299,000 overseas Filipinos also visited the region.
Beyond Beaches: Niche and Ecotourism Strength
Researchers attributed the sustained growth to Cebu’s strong air connectivity, white sand beaches, world class dive sites, and historic landmarks. PIDS also highlighted the region’s high degree of institutional maturity, noting that local governments have effectively designed and implemented complex tourism circuits.
Beyond traditional sun and sea attractions, Central Visayas has expanded into high value niche markets. Cebu has emerged as a hub for English as a Second Language education and medical training, while also gaining recognition as a global pilgrimage site for Filipino Martial Arts. These segments attract long stay visitors who contribute more to the local economy.
The region is also recognized for community based ecotourism models such as the Bojo River Cruise in Cebu and the Cambuhat River Tour in Bohol. Adventure experiences like Kawasan Falls further strengthen its appeal to younger travelers.
Growth Pressures and the Road Ahead
Despite record breaking numbers, the report warned of mounting challenges, including traffic congestion, waste management concerns, overtourism risks, and climate vulnerability.
Through initiatives such as the One Visayas tourism integration plan linking Central, Western, and Eastern Visayas, policymakers aim to ensure the region’s next 25 years are defined not only by visitor volume but by sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience.
