Bohol Emerges as Key MICE Destination in Central Visayas
Bohol is rapidly establishing itself as an emerging hub for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions while continuing to demonstrate resilient tourism demand, according to Cebu-based developer BE Group, which is expanding its hospitality footprint across the province. Company executives emphasize that new convention facilities and hotel developments are helping Bohol strengthen its position as a compelling alternative destination to Cebu for hosting large-scale events throughout Central Visayas.
Be Grand Convention Center: A Game-Changer for Large Events
At the forefront of this strategic push is the Be Grand Convention Center in Panglao, which represents a significant advancement in Bohol's event hosting capabilities. The facility can accommodate approximately 800 guests on a single floor and up to around 1,000 people when breakout areas are fully utilized, making it among the largest indoor event venues currently available anywhere in the province.
"For major events in Bohol previously, organizers typically had to rely on improvised spaces or divided function rooms," explained Grand Benedicto, president and chief executive officer of Be Group. "Now we possess the capacity to host one substantial event within a single, purpose-built venue."
Since reopening following the Covid-19 pandemic, the convention center has successfully hosted events with as many as 3,000 participants by creatively extending activities to outdoor areas using temporary tents and large screens. This innovative approach reflects the growing demand for substantial gatherings and conferences within the province.
Complementary Roles: Bohol and Cebu in the MICE Industry
Industry leaders suggest that Bohol and Cebu can effectively complement each other within the competitive meetings industry. While Cebu serves as the region's primary MICE hub with established infrastructure, Bohol offers a distinctive island alternative for business events and corporate retreats.
"Cebu has firmly established itself as the mainstream destination for MICE activities throughout the region," Benedicto noted. "Bohol can strategically position itself as the captivating island alternative, providing a unique setting that combines business with natural beauty."
This complementary setup was clearly demonstrated during recent ASEAN-related activities, where major meetings and conferences were primarily held in Cebu while some events and international delegates were successfully hosted across various venues in Bohol.
Robust Tourism Demand and Diversified Visitor Base
The expansion of MICE facilities coincides with remarkably robust tourism demand throughout the province, despite concerns in certain sectors about potential slowdowns in visitor arrivals. BE Group officials report that their hospitality properties achieved record January revenues this year, significantly exceeding pre-pandemic performance levels.
"Last month represented our highest revenue period so far," revealed Nova Noval, chief operating officer of Be Group, noting that bookings have been consistently supported by a healthy mix of corporate events, leisure travelers and international visitors.
While arrivals from South Korea—traditionally Bohol's largest tourist market—have experienced some softening, developers emphasize that other visitor segments have effectively helped offset this decline.
"We acknowledge that Korean arrivals have decreased somewhat, but this decline has been substantially covered by growth from other international and domestic markets," Noval confirmed.
Tourism stakeholders highlight that Bohol's diverse array of attractions—from spectacular island hopping and world-class diving to immersive countryside tours and historical sites—continues to draw travelers seeking comprehensive experiences beyond conventional beach tourism.
Developers have also observed that the province's visitor base has become increasingly diversified, with a growing mixture of Asian tourists, Western travelers and domestic visitors contributing to a more balanced tourism economy.
Challenges and Future Growth Opportunities
Despite the overwhelmingly positive outlook, Benedicto identified international flight connectivity as a crucial factor for sustained tourism growth throughout the province.
"Regardless of how effectively we promote the destination, tourism remains fundamentally dependent on accessible flight connections," Benedicto emphasized, noting that additional international routes could dramatically boost visitor arrivals and event participation.
BE Group continues to expand its hospitality portfolio across Bohol, including the recent opening of Be Pods Alona in Panglao. This innovative limited-service hotel brand specifically targets value-conscious travelers by offering essential hotel amenities while strategically reducing nonessential services.
Company executives maintain strong optimism about Bohol's long-term tourism potential as investments in convention facilities, hotels and comprehensive tourism infrastructure continue to expand throughout the province.
