Local officials expressed optimism on Monday that Cebu will see a significant boost in tourism and foreign investments following the successful hosting of the 48th ASEAN Summit.
Mayor Nestor Archival revealed that the city government has already started receiving inquiries from international parties interested in mountain tours and island-hopping activities, signaling immediate interest from the global community.
”I talked to some of them and they said they are happy because Cebuanos have their own [unique] smiles,” Archival shared, noting the positive feedback from delegates regarding the local hospitality and tight security measures.
Despite the praise, the Mayor acknowledged that the high-profile event also shed light on the city’s infrastructure challenges, particularly its congested roadways.
”That is one thing that we will improve on — our infrastructure,” he said, responding to feedback about the city’s narrow roads.
The National Organizing Committee (NOC) recently honored the local government units and stakeholders for their seamless management of the summit, which ran from May 7 to 8. Director-General for Operations Undersecretary Ma. Hellen De La Vega and NOC representative Undersecretary Leonardo Roy Cervantes specifically commended the city’s coordination during the two-day leaders’ meet.
Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro emphasized that the event’s success is a victory for the entire nation, showcasing the province as a world-class destination.
”This is truly a proud moment not only for Cebu, but for the entire country,” Governor Baricuatro said. “This summit showed the world not only the beauty of Cebu, but also the creativity, resilience, professionalism, and hospitality of the Filipino people.”
The summit brought together heads of state from all ASEAN member countries and thousands of delegates to the region. The Philippine National Police reported that the event concluded with no major security incidents.