CEBU — The Lapu-Lapu Tourism Expo 2026 officially opened today, June 15, at the Mahi Center in MEZ 1, Barangay Ibo, marking the start of a five‑day showcase of the city's finest hospitality, heritage, and travel offerings. Organized by the city government as part of the 65th Charter Day celebrations, the expo runs daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. through June 19. Admission is free and open to the public, inviting locals and tourists alike to explore exclusive travel deals and discover the vibrant spirit of this historic island city.
Mayor Ahong Chan's administration has positioned the expo as a centerpiece of the Charter Day festivities. The event brings together an elite lineup of premium resorts and hotels, including Dusit Thani Mactan, JPark Island Resorts & Waterparks, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Fairfield by Marriott, Sheraton Hotel, and Mercure Mactan Cebu. Government institutions like the Social Security System and local community associations such as the Mactan Shrine Souvenir Vendors Association are also participating.
Exclusive Perks and a Grand Giveaway
Visitors can take advantage of event‑only discounts, staycation promos, and booking packages available exclusively during the expo. The highlight is a spectacular travel giveaway jointly offered by Marina Seaview and Sunlight Air. The first three bookers who lock in a reservation with Marina Seaview and pay a minimum deposit of ₱75,000 will each receive one complimentary round‑trip ticket to any domestic destination courtesy of Sunlight Air. The promotion is designed to encourage immediate bookings and reward early visitors.
Other exhibitors, including Chateau by the Sea, Goldberry Suites & Hotel, Infinitrip Travel Services, and OneRoot Hospitality, are also expected to present their own exclusive packages. The expo serves as a one‑stop shop for travelers looking to explore the Mactan islands and beyond, offering direct access to some of Cebu's most sought‑after resort destinations and hospitality brands.
A City on the Rise
The expo is one of several events commemorating Lapu‑Lapu City's 65th Charter Day. Proclamation No. 1276 declared June 17, 2026, a special non‑working day in the city. Other activities include the MUGNA Street Design Competition across 30 barangays, a blood donation drive, and a grand parade honoring Palarong Pambansa gold medalists and outstanding barangays. The city is also advancing its smart city ambitions through the OneLapuLapu Super App.
The choice of the Mahi Center as the venue reflects the city's growing capability to host large‑scale events. The convention facility, part of the ₱1.5‑billion Mactan Expo complex developed by Megaworld, recently hosted the ASEAN Summit 2026 and is positioned as a premier hub for international gatherings. Its proximity to major resorts, the Mactan‑Cebu International Airport, and the Mactan Newtown township makes it an ideal location for a tourism‑focused event.
A Platform for Community and Commerce
The Lapu‑Lapu Tourism Expo is more than a travel fair. It is a celebration of the community's growth and resilience. By featuring local souvenir vendors alongside international hotel brands, the expo bridges grassroots commerce and global hospitality. The participation of MASSVA, Inc., the association of Mactan Shrine souvenir vendors, ensures that the city's cultural identity remains at the forefront of its tourism strategy.
For the public, the expo offers a rare opportunity to book premium stays at discounted rates, plan domestic travel with complimentary tickets, and discover the full range of tourism experiences that Lapu‑Lapu City has to offer. As the city celebrates 65 years of charterhood, the expo stands as a testament to its transformation from a historic island community into a thriving urban tourism hub.
