Cebu City, Philippines — Palace Social Secretary Bianca Cristina Cardenas Zobel visited the Cebu Provincial Capitol on August 19, 2025, to brief Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro on the progress of preparations for the ASEAN Summit 2026, set to take place in Cebu next year. Alongside these efforts, the Cebu Provincial Youth Fair continues to showcase the province’s talent and innovation, highlighting Cebu as a premier destination for international events, meetings, and conferences.
Zobel has spent two days in Cebu scouting venues for ASEAN leaders’ social events, as part of preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in January.
Scouting for the Ideal Venues
Zobel, Deputy Social Secretary Dina Tantoco, and Director Vivian Recio toured potential summit venues, focusing on spaces for social gatherings, networking, and informal leader meetings.
“Know that you have my full support. Anything that you might need, please don’t hesitate to tell me,” Governor Baricuatro assured Zobel during their meeting.
While the formal summit events will take place in convention centers and hotels, the social gatherings are a key aspect of the summit. These events give ASEAN leaders an opportunity to connect outside of the formal discussions, enhancing diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges.
Cebu’s Rich History and Culture as a Venue for Diplomacy
One of the highlights of the preparation meeting was the venue recommendations shared by Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano, a former tourism secretary. He emphasized the importance of choosing historical landmarks in Cebu that showcase the province’s rich cultural heritage.
Among his top recommendations were:
- Fort San Pedro – A historic fort built in the late 1500s, offering a unique glimpse into Cebu’s colonial past.
- Museo Sugbo – A museum housed in a former provincial jail, known for its collection of Cebuano artifacts and its connection to Cebu’s history.
Durano’s insights were well-received, with both Zobel and Baricuatro agreeing that these venues not only offer aesthetic appeal but also allow Cebu to showcase its culture during an international event.
“The venues we choose must not only accommodate international leaders but also reflect our rich history and warm hospitality,” Baricuatro noted.
Both Fort San Pedro and Museo Sugbo offer outdoor spaces ideal for hosting diplomatic dinners, receptions, and other informal gatherings that will complement the official summit proceedings.
Cebu: A Premier International Meeting Destination
Cebu has long been a top destination for international conferences, meetings, and tourism events. With its world-class hotels, modern convention centers, and beautiful landscapes, the province is well-equipped to host major international gatherings. The ASEAN Summit 2026 will be a testament to Cebu’s growing influence as a hub for regional and global diplomacy.
The ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in January 2026 will be the first major international event in Cebu leading up to the ASEAN Summit later in the year. This event will bring together tourism leaders from across the ASEAN region, showcasing Cebu’s potential as a global tourism and conference destination.
Gov. Baricuatro emphasizes Cebu’s commitment to becoming a leader in the MICE industry.
“This summit is not just about hosting world leaders; it’s also about strengthening Cebu’s role in the global conversation on tourism, business, and culture,” said Gov. Baricuatro. “We want to showcase our province’s potential to the world.”
The ASEAN Summit: A Step Toward Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The ASEAN Summit 2026 will bring together heads of state and government from the ten ASEAN member countries, along with other high-level representatives. The event will discuss critical issues such as regional security, economic cooperation, environmental sustainability, and cultural exchanges.
Hosting the summit boosts Cebu’s global visibility, strengthens regional diplomatic ties, and highlights its role in Southeast Asia.
Supporting Cebu’s Global Role: A Commitment to Infrastructure and Development
Under Governor Baricuatro, Cebu is enhancing infrastructure to support the ASEAN Summit, Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, and growing international events.
Baricuatro’s administration has championed several initiatives, including:
- Upgrades to transport infrastructure, including roads, airports, and seaports.
- Enhancing public utilities to accommodate international visitors.
- Building sustainable and accessible facilities to support large-scale events and conferences.
These efforts support the Philippines’ goal to strengthen the MICE industry and boost tourism and economic growth in Cebu.
A Unified Effort: Collaborating for a Successful ASEAN Summit
Gov. Baricuatro will collaborate with LGUs and private partners to ensure Cebu’s full readiness for the ASEAN Summit 2026.
Gov. Baricuatro said hosting the ASEAN Summit showcases Cebu’s strengths and commitment to regional cooperation.
Cebu’s community spirit and commitment to excellence ensure a successful ASEAN Summit and a lasting post-summit legacy.
Conclusion: Cebu Takes Its Place on the Global Stage
Cebu prepares for ASEAN Summit 2026 and Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, highlighting its global tourism and diplomacy role.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro’s support for these events strengthens Cebu’s role as a hub for diplomacy, business, and culture.
