CEBU — Organizers of the East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Federation (EATOF) from South Korea paid a courtesy visit to Governor Pamela Baricuatro on August 13, 2026, to prepare for the federation’s upcoming general assembly. Cebu is set to host the biennial gathering at the Mactan Expo this September.
Cebu Welcomes EATOF Delegation
The visit served as a coordination meeting to align preparations for the major international tourism event. Governor Baricuatro expressed full support for the assembly, welcoming the Korean delegates and inviting them to explore more of Cebu when they return. She highlighted the province’s tourism destinations, rich culture, and unique local experiences as key draws for visitors.
The governor also floated the idea of establishing a Koreatown in Cebu to serve the province’s Korean community. An estimated 20,000 Koreans currently live, study, and do business in the province, making them a significant part of the local fabric. Such a development would further strengthen cultural ties and enhance the experience for Korean tourists.
A Premiere Tourism Gathering
The EATOF General Assembly will bring together delegates from 10 member regions across East and Southeast Asia. These include Gangwon State in South Korea, Tottori Prefecture in Japan, Jilin Province in China, and Sarawak in Malaysia, among others. The assembly will focus on tourism policies, strategic initiatives, and programs that strengthen interregional cooperation.
Cebu is a founding member of EATOF and has hosted the assembly twice before, in 2002 and 2011. Hosting again in 2026 reinforces Cebu’s central role in the federation and its commitment to regional tourism development. The event will provide a platform for sharing best practices and launching joint marketing campaigns.
Building on Tourism Momentum
This hosting comes on the heels of Cebu’s successful organization of activities for the ASEAN Tourism Forum earlier in 2026. The consecutive international events position Cebu as a leading MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hub in the region. The Mactan Expo venue is well-suited to accommodate the delegates and sessions.
The influx of international delegates will also benefit local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to transport operators and tour guides. The assembly is expected to further boost Cebu’s profile as a safe, capable, and attractive tourism and investment destination. It showcases the province’s readiness to host world-class gatherings.
A Shared Vision for Growth
The partnership between Cebu and EATOF underscores a shared vision for sustainable and inclusive tourism. Governor Baricuatro’s proactive engagement with the Korean delegation highlights the importance of international collaboration. The upcoming assembly promises to deliver tangible benefits for the local economy and strengthen Cebu’s standing on the global tourism map.
