By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday touted the newly inaugurated Mactan Expo in Lapu-Lapu City as a world-class convention facility that will help strengthen the Philippines’ capacity to host major international events, including meetings linked to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Speaking during the inauguration of the convention center located within The Mactan Newtown, Marcos said the facility would boost the country’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry while showcasing Cebu’s hospitality and culture to the world.
“Pinapalakas natin ang turismo sa Cebu dito sa pagbukas nitong Mactan Expo (We are strengthening tourism here in Cebu, including the opening of this Mactan Expo),” the President said.
The Chief Executive noted that the facility will be crucial as the Philippines prepares to host numerous regional meetings, including activities related to the ASEAN Summit, which the country is chairing this year.
Marcos said the idea of developing venues outside Metro Manila was partly inspired by Indonesia’s approach when it hosted ASEAN events in new tourism destinations.
The President said Cebu, particularly Lapu-Lapu City, was identified as a strategic location because of its tourism appeal and available accommodations, making it capable of hosting world leaders and large delegations.
The Mactan Expo, the first stand-alone convention center built by Megaworld Corp., is designed to host large-scale events and conferences while highlighting Cebuano culture and identity.
Marcos said projects like the Mactan Expo demonstrate how public-private partnerships can accelerate infrastructure development.
“Very early on, we recognized that there are things that government does well and there are things that the private sector does well. And to partner with the private sector, ito nga ang nagiging resulta (this is among the results),” he said.
He added that improving tourism infrastructure across the country remains essential to enhancing visitors’ overall experience and attracting more international travelers.
“Alongside that, our infrastructure must continue to improve so that every visitor’s experience becomes smoother, more memorable,” Marcos said.
Lagging PH tourism
In the same speech, the President also lamented the lagging tourism industry in the country, saying that it is now far behind regional competitors.
“Our tourism industry is now under a great deal of pressure dahil sa mga nangyayari (because of what is happening). And last year, we only welcomed 6 million people,” Marcos said.
“Just to give you a frame of reference, Thailand welcomes 30 million tourists every year. Kaya malaki ang hahabulin natin (We a have a lot of catching up to do),” he added.
The remarks came following the reassignment of former Tourism chief Christina Frasco as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities. (PNA)
