Cebu province recorded 1,080,809 tourist arrivals from January through August 2026, marking a 12.78 percent increase over the same period in 2025. Domestic visitors numbered 838,575, rising 9.19 percent, while foreign arrivals grew 27.28 percent to reach 242,108, according to figures from the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office.
Top Foreign Markets and Growth
South Korea was the leading source of international visitors to Cebu, contributing 60,518 arrivals and posting the largest absolute gain of 13,630 tourists during the period. The United States followed with 22,866 arrivals, and Japan was third at 22,223. China and the United Kingdom also showed strong growth, with increases of 10,546 and
3,409 visitors respectively. Tourism statistics indicated that 53 foreign markets recorded positive growth.
Leading Local Destinations
Among Cebu’s local destinations, Cordova attracted the highest number of tourists, registering 171,552 arrivals. Santa Fe came next with 120,197, while Daanbantayan recorded 59,435 visitors during the January to August timeframe.
Report Submission and Growth Factors
The tourism statistics report for the first eight months of 2026 was submitted to Governor Pamela Baricuatro on September 30, 2026. The Provincial Tourism Office credited the growth in arrivals to sustained promotional efforts led by the provincial government, local government units, tourism establishments, communities, and industry stakeholders.
The faster rate of growth in international tourism
arrivals significantly contributed to the overall increase in visitors. The continued rise in foreign arrivals has driven momentum in Cebu’s tourism sector during 2026, reinforcing its position as a key destination in the Philippines.
Officials highlighted that the data reflects the coordinated work of government and industry partners in marketing Cebu’s attractions and tourism activities.
