The Department of Tourism in Central Visayas (DOT-7) announced Cebu’s successful bid on its Facebook page on Sept. 9, drawing a warm welcome from the local business community.
“Cebu’s winning bid to host MICECON 2027 is a great win for all of us. More than just a victory for our tourism and MICE industry, it shows what we can accomplish when government, business, and our tourism stakeholders work together toward a common goal,” the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) said in a statement.
The Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) also welcomed the development, saying the event would highlight one of Cebu’s key strengths as a prime destination for business conventions and leisure events.
Back after 13 years
The return of MICECON to Cebu after 13 years was announced during a dinner hosted by the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2026 at Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Manila on Sept. 8.
The successful bid capped months of intensive preparation, cross-sector collaboration and outreach to local government units by the Cebu MICE Alliance, together with DOT-7, the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC), CEBU Alliance of Tour Specialists (CATOS) and various business chambers.
The groups secured the support of the local chief executives of Cebu, Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu cities, as well as the Cebu provincial government, rallying different sectors behind a unified “One Cebu” bid.
“Months of rigorous preparation went into building this proposal, but our greatest strength was bringing our local leaders together,” said Cebu MICE Alliance vice president for external affairs and Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown general manager Josef Chiongbian.
“Engaging the Cebu Provincial Government and the mayors of our tri-cities to unite under one single Cebu bid proves how Cebuanos collaborate and step up to position Cebu as a global powerhouse. This win belongs to the entire community,” said Chiongbian.
Global showcase
MICECON 2027 is expected to draw international buyers, event planners, trade delegates and industry leaders from around the world.
The conference will showcase Cebu’s expanding infrastructure, modern convention facilities and world-class accommodations, as well as its hospitality, rich cultural heritage and commitment to progressive and sustainable event management.
“Bringing MICECON back to Cebu after more than a decade is both a milestone and a strong validation of our industry's enduring strength and growth,” said Cebu MICE Alliance president Cleofe Albison.
“This hosting duty allows us to demonstrate how Cebu harmoniously combines top-tier business infrastructure with deep-rooted cultural experiences and regenerative, forward-thinking event practices,” she added.
MICECON 2027 is also expected to generate business for Cebu’s transport, hospitality, food and beverage, and other local industries while strengthening the province’s standing as a major conference destination in Asia.
Business opportunity
CCCI president Regan Rex King said hosting MICECON 2027 was not just about staging an event but also an opportunity to showcase Cebu, strengthen its MICE industry and create more opportunities for the local business community.
“When Cebu works together, Cebu wins. Congratulations to everyone who made this possible. This is a win we can all be proud of,” he added.
MCCI, meanwhile, said the conference’s return offered a welcome boost for Cebu’s tourism industry.
“In a time when the Cebu Tourism industry is underperforming compared to regional neighbors due to high travel costs, infrastructure bottlenecks, and lingering safety perceptions, this provides a light at the end of the tunnel,” MCCI said.
Aside from its strategic location and role as a major transport hub, MCCI said Cebu was well-positioned to stage a major event such as MICECON, with newer facilities including the SM Seaside Cebu Arena and the Mactan Expo Center at Mactan Newtown expanding the province’s capacity to host large-scale gatherings. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
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