Central Visayas emerges as Asia's next top Mice destination with global awards
Central Visayas has secured its position as a rising star in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (Mice) sector. Three of its top venues—Shangri-La Mactan Cebu, bai Hotel Cebu, and The Bellevue Resort in Bohol—were honoured at the 6th Annual World Mice Awards for 2026-2028. The region is now pushing to compete with established hubs like Singapore, Bangkok, and Bali through expanded infrastructure and strategic partnerships.
The region's recent success follows a string of high-profile events. In 2026, Cebu hosted the Asean Foreign Ministers' Retreat and the Asean Tourism Forum, while Bohol's Panglao Island welcomed the First Asean Senior Economic Officials' Meeting. These gatherings set the stage for the upcoming Asean Leaders' Summit in Cebu this May.
The Cebu Mice Alliance, working with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has ramped up efforts to attract more business. Their latest initiative, the Cebu MICE Guide 2025, showcases the region's capabilities. Meanwhile, Bohol is capitalising on its Unesco Global Geopark designation to appeal to sustainability-focused event planners.
Cebu's strong air connectivity—with over 300 weekly international flights and 1,000 domestic services—adds to its appeal. A trained tourism workforce and upgraded infrastructure, driven by public-private collaboration, further strengthen its competitive edge. The region has also lined up a busy calendar for 2026, including the 11th International Travel Festival and the Sports Tourism Forum Cebu.
Looking ahead, tourism stakeholders are actively bidding for major regional and global events in 2027 and 2028. Their goal is to solidify Central Visayas as a top-tier Mice destination in Asia.
The recognition of three key venues at the World Mice Awards highlights Central Visayas' growing influence. With ongoing infrastructure upgrades, a packed event schedule, and a focus on sustainability, the region is positioning itself as a serious contender in the Mice market. Upcoming summits and festivals will test its ability to deliver on this ambition.
