The Outdoors7 Hub is a permanent gathering space for hobbyists, adventurers, and explorers to connect, collaborate, and take part in initiatives that support the development of adventure tourism in Central Visayas.
Located at R.O.X Cebu in Ayala Center Cebu, the hub also serves as a sign-up point for trekking, paddling, canyoneering, and other exciting adventures.
Catalyst for environment stewardship
The Outdoors7 Hub was launched alongside the Outdoors7 Summit, which returned for its fourth year, a three-day gathering focused on storytelling, innovation, and sustainable outdoor recreation.
During the summit launch on Feb. 27, Gelena Asis-Dimpas, acting director of the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas, said outdoor tourism has evolved into an important driver of economic growth and a catalyst for environmental stewardship.
Outdoor adventure tourism, she said, effectively meets the demands of priority markets. It also enables youth engagement and countryside development.
Dimpas noted that interest in outdoor tourism continues to grow not only across the Philippines but also among international adventurers.
They have welcomed outdoor enthusiasts from Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and the United States who love to trek, paddle, climb, dive, ride, and explore.
Outdoors7 Hub
To further boost outdoor tourism in Cebu, Dimpas said they established the Outdoors7 Hub, where enthusiasts—both beginners and veterans alike—can sign up for trekking trips, paddling trails, canyoneering activities, and even climbing expeditions.
“This is a place where brands, guides, operators, and enthusiasts meet face-to-face—a place where beginners can take their first step and where veterans can share their experiences,” she said.
Some of these homegrown outdoor brands are even being exported abroad and patronized by international markets, she added.
Launched in 2018, Outdoors7 began as a venue for the adventure community to exchange stories and best practices.
Over the years, it has evolved into a key gathering that promotes safety standards, sustainability, and responsible outdoor recreation while boosting homegrown brands and adventure offerings.
More upland trails for trekkers
Mia Singson-Leon, president of the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, said the Outdoors7 Summit was a fantastic opportunity for adventure seekers to connect, promote, and elevate the region’s breathtaking outdoor experiences.
“I am thrilled to see the region’s outdoor adventure tourism showcased on this platform,” she added.
Councilor Nice Archival, Cebu City committee chair on tourism, said Cebu City plans to open more upland trails for trekkers as part of efforts to boost outdoor tourism.
She noted that Cebu has many tourist spots that can uplift the tourism industry, especially when combined with hospitality and the sharing of heritage stories with visitors.
The Outdoors7 Summit, she added, is one platform that showcases the outdoor adventures not only of Cebu but also Bohol, providing opportunities to promote products and services while connecting travelers and adventurers to meaningful experiences. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
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