Cebu stays in hunt for Philippine MICE Con hosting

Local

CEBU has moved a step closer to hosting the Philippine MICE Conference after making it to the shortlist of candidate destinations, according to the tourism committee head of the Cebu Business Month 2026.

Josef Chiongbian said Cebu's bid is unique because it brings together local government units and the private sector under a single proposal, a first for the province.

"In the past, individual hotels or venues submitted their own bids. This time, everyone is working together," he said.

Cebu is among three Visayas contenders still in the running, alongside Iloilo and Boracay, after competing against proposals from several cities in Luzon and Mindanao.

The next requirement is the submission of a promotional video in August highlighting Cebu as a meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination.

Chiongbian said the presentation will feature not only Cebu City but also Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City and the rest of the province.

Organizers are currently finalizing the storyboard, with the official announcement of the winning host expected in September.

If Cebu wins the bid, Chiongbian said the province already has suitable venues to accommodate the conference, including the SMX Convention Center in Cebu City, the Mandani Bay Tent in Mandaue City and the Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City.

He added that hosting the event would allow local stakeholders and international buyers to experience Cebu's convention facilities and tourism offerings firsthand.

Chiongbian also hinted at more opportunities for Cebu's tourism sector, saying sports tourism will receive a boost with the expected announcement that the SEA and Beach Games will be held in the province. He added that more sporting events are being lined up by industry partners.

Despite challenges affecting the global tourism industry, including tensions in the Middle East, Chiongbian said Cebu continues to prepare for future opportunities by holding industry summits, strengthening partnerships and improving its tourism programs.

"We've never stopped preparing. Instead of slowing down, we're using this time to improve so we're ready when bigger opportunities come,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the private sector and government, saying public support will be key in attracting more international conventions and tourism events to Cebu.(MyTVCebu)