Potential Venue for ASEAN Tourism Forum

Currently under construction, the Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu is emerging as a strong candidate for hosting the upcoming ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in January 2026.

Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced this potential on June 26, highlighting that the ATF will also include the ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place in Cebu. This forum is a significant event, as the Philippines holds the chairmanship of ASEAN next year.

Frasco expressed confidence that the Mactan Expo Center, developed by Megaworld, will be an attractive venue for the ATF, which is pivotal for promoting Cebu as a premier hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

The Expo Center, valued at approximately PHP 1.5 billion, is expected to be finished by December 2025 and will have a capacity of 2,600 attendees. This venue, alongside others like the NUSTAR Convention Center and IC3 Convention Center in Cebu City, enhances the region’s infrastructure for significant events.

Moreover, Secretary Frasco’s department is collaborating with local governments and tourism stakeholders to maximize the benefits of the ATF for Cebu. The forum will provide a travel exchange component, connecting buyers and sellers throughout ASEAN, showcasing a variety of products and services.