By PR | 11:13 AM June 19, 2026
BOHOL, Philippines— Recognizing the growing impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East on global aviation and tourism, Aboitiz Infracapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), the operator of Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) under Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports, convened the Strategic Tourism Dialogue on June 15, 2026, bringing together leaders from the hospitality, travel, tourism, and aviation sectors to develop a unified response to emerging industry challenges.
Hosted at Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort Panglao, the dialogue served as a collaborative platform for government agencies and private sector stakeholders to discuss the implications of volatile fuel supply conditions, rising operational costs, and shifting travel demand—all of which influence airline economics, airfare pricing, and destination competitiveness.
“As an island destination, tourism is the lifeblood of Bohol’s economy. Global events may be beyond our control, but how we respond is entirely within our hands,” said Aldwin Uy, General Manager of Bohol-Panglao International Airport. “Our priority is to work alongside our tourism and airline partners to anticipate challenges, align strategies, and ensure that Bohol remains a reliable, competitive, and attractive gateway for travelers. The strongest destinations are those built on collaboration, adaptability, and a shared long-term vision.”
The Strategic Tourism Dialogue was organized to encourage the exchange of market intelligence, operational insights, and emerging travel trends while identifying practical strategies that will strengthen the resilience of Bohol’s tourism ecosystem.
The initiative reflects Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports’ commitment to fostering stronger partnerships across the tourism value chain and creating coordinated responses to external economic pressures that affect regional growth.
“Bohol’s strength as a destination extends far beyond its natural attractions. It is anchored on the collective commitment of our tourism stakeholders to continuously innovate and work together,” said Joanne Pinat of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office. “This dialogue is both timely and essential, providing a venue for government and industry leaders to align strategies that will help cushion global uncertainties while sustaining tourism growth. Through collaboration, we can ensure that Bohol remains accessible, competitive, and ready to welcome visitors from around the world.”
The dialogue gathered representatives from the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office, the Bohol Provincial Tourism Council, the Bohol Association of Resorts and Restaurants (BAHRR), the Bohol Association of Travel and Tour Operators (BATTO), alongside aviation and hospitality stakeholders.
The program featured presentations on aviation market trends, followed by an open dialogue that encouraged participants to identify opportunities for stronger destination marketing, enhanced connectivity, and more coordinated industry action. Discussions also covered the latest developments on the proposed revival of the whale shark experience, with sustainability at its core, as well as strategies to attract new source markets such as Japan and a stronger call for the visa-free entry of Chinese tourists arriving through Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA).
As Bohol continues to strengthen its position as one of the country’s premier leisure destinations, BPIA remains committed to serving as a catalyst for economic growth and regional connectivity by working hand in hand with its partners to navigate uncertainty and build a more resilient tourism industry for the future.
