CEBU — The province's comprehensive and integrated logistics ecosystem stands as one of its most powerful magnets for investment, a leading industry figure declared at a major regional summit.
Logistics as a Strategic Advantage
Speaking at the Cebu International Investments Summit on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, Leslie D. Lim, the chief executive officer of the LDL Group of Companies, argued that Cebu's appeal extends far beyond its established reputation for commerce and tourism. She emphasized the province's end-to-end logistical capabilities as the core differentiator.
"Logistics is no longer just a support function. It is a strategic advantage," Lim stated. She explained that modern investors actively seek locations with reliable supply chains, predictable regulations, and modern infrastructure—all of which Cebu offers.
The Infrastructure Backbone
Lim detailed the physical assets that make Cebu a natural distribution hub for the Visayas, Mindanao, and international markets. Its central Philippine location is supported by an extensive road network and robust inter-island connectivity.
The province hosts major international and domestic seaports, such as the Cebu International Port and Cebu South Harbor. This maritime strength is complemented by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, a dual-passenger and cargo gateway served by multiple international airlines.
Beyond infrastructure, Cebu benefits from a dense network of logistics service providers. This ecosystem includes:
- Freight forwarders and customs brokers
- Bonded warehouses
- Over a hundred registered trucking firms with thousands of vehicles for island-wide distribution
This network allows manufacturers and traders to significantly shorten delivery times and reduce operational costs, Lim noted.
Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Digitalization and Workforce
Lim, who also serves as president of the Federation of Ecozone Service Providers – Visayas Chapter, highlighted critical non-physical improvements. She pointed to advances in trade facilitation and digitalization, particularly in customs and regulatory processes.
The shift to electronic documentation and the reduction of manual procedures have accelerated cargo clearance and enhanced transparency. Remarkably, Lim characterized the bureaucratic environment not as one of red tape, but of "red carpet service," crediting the current administration's intensified efforts to streamline processes.
She also cited Cebu's skilled and resilient workforce, strong English proficiency, and supportive local government units as foundational pillars of investor confidence. The province's economic zones, which offer tax incentives and streamlined procedures, further strengthen its appeal, employing hundreds of thousands across sectors like electronics, garments, shipbuilding, and food processing.
"With the right mix of infrastructure, services and governance, Cebu is no longer just an option for investors," Lim concluded. "It has become a deliberate choice."
This logistics-led growth model positions Cebu to capture more investments as companies diversify supply chains and look beyond Metro Manila for expansion opportunities.
