EXACTLY after a year since the nationwide lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. (HHRAC) has officially launched its month-long “I Love Cebu” online sale to shine a spotlight on the island of Cebu in the domestic tourism travel map.
Geared toward reviving Cebu’s tourism economy, the sale treats potential travelers to attractive discounts of up to 70 percent on accommodations and tours.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has hit Cebu tourism harder than any other major economic sector. The sudden and unexpected fall in tourist arrivals placed on hold the many social and economic benefits that tourism delivers,” HRRAC president Alfred Reyes said during the official launch on Tuesday, March 16, 2021.
Participating in the massive online sale are 60 establishments composed of 18 tour operators and 42 hotels and resorts. The sale will run from March 21 to April 30, 2021.
“I Love Cebu” is a sustained campaign to bring back tourism to Cebu led by HRRAC members, and members of the hospitality industry including the Cebu Association of Tour Operators.
“This initiative encourages local travel to help revive tourism,” he said.
The online sale can be accessed at traveloco.ph/ILoveCebu, an online selling platform for consumers, hotels and resorts and tour operators in Cebu to offer the best accommodation, transportation and tour packages.
Reyes said it also highlights Cebu’s unique selling points like its history, culture, good food, beautiful beaches and the vibrant marine life.
“This is a huge step as we embark on a digital campaign to promote tourist attractions,” he said.
The HRRAC president added that revitalizing tourism activities has become one of the primary concerns in the short-run domestic tourism as it is expected to play a vital role in supporting the initial recovery phase to travel.
With the pandemic’s impact on traveler behavior and business operations, Reyes said it is necessary to present effective strategies in the midst of the new normal in Philippine travel. (JOB)