During the recent 40th SAC-SMB Cebu Sports Awards, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick "Pato" Gregorio delivered a powerful speech that ignited conversations about Cebu's pivotal role in the nation's sports tourism landscape. When asked about rumors of potentially becoming the next Department of Tourism secretary, Gregorio laughed off the speculation but proceeded to articulate a compelling vision that bridges athletic excellence with tourism development.
Cebu's Historical Leadership in Sports Tourism
Gregorio began by reflecting on his personal connection to Cebu, recalling his early 2000s experience as general manager of Waterfront Hotel. "Cebu already understood the value of sports tourism: how it develops champions, how it connects people, how it showcases places, people, and culture," he emphasized. "Cebu was well ahead of its time."
The PSC chairman expressed his realization of how much he misses Cebu, particularly noting that he hasn't heard as much from the region in national sports conversations in recent years. Despite this, he highlighted Cebu's continued production of champions including basketball star June Mar Fajardo, boxer Mark Magsayo, weightlifter Elreen Ando, marathoner Mary Joy Tabal, and dancesport athletes Pearl Cañeda and Wilbert Aunzo.
Cebu's Enduring Sports Heritage
Gregorio detailed Cebu's rich athletic legacy that continues to thrive across multiple disciplines:
- Arnis/Eskrima: The beating heart of this martial art with the Cañete Family and Doce Pares Eskrima
- Boxing: A pantheon featuring champions like Donnie Nietes and Gerry Peñalosa
- Dancesport: A vibrant hub pioneered by Ed Hayco
- Endurance Sports: The premium choice for unforgettable marathons, triathlons, and cycling competitions
"That tells me something very important: the fire in Cebu never went out," Gregorio declared. "And if the fire never went out, then this moment is not about starting something new. This moment is about Cebu rising again."
Four Pillars of Cebu's Sports Tourism Future
The PSC chairman outlined four concrete developments that will propel Cebu's sports tourism renaissance:
- SM Seaside Arena: SM chairman Hans Sy is building this new facility scheduled to open in June 2026
- National Academy of Arnis: A partnership between PSC and UP Cebu that will establish Cebu as the global center of eskrima
- International Basketball Events: Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas will host major FIBA games in Cebu in 2027, with potential for WTA tennis tournaments
- Asian Beach Games 2028: Cebu will host over 3,000 athletes from across Asia competing in more than 19 sports disciplines
"Because of Cebu, they will all fall in love with the Philippines," Gregorio proclaimed. "I repeat: it's time for Cebu to rise again."
Iconic Infrastructure and National Vision
Gregorio shared his morning visit to the historic Cebu Coliseum, which has stood strong since 1962 while modernizing and evolving in the heart of the city. "Sports moves this city like no other," he observed.
The PSC chairman expressed confidence that in the next two years, "the Queen City of the South will show its might as the national powerhouse of sports tourism." He positioned Cebu as a centerpiece in realizing the Philippine sports vision: "from grassroots to gold, from gold to greatness."
Gregorio concluded with a call to action: "Cebu must be at the forefront of this movement. Let's continue to collaborate closely. It will be Cebu's gift to national renewal. Let's continue to make the nation smile."
The speech underscored how sports tourism represents more than just athletic competitions—it's about cultural exchange, economic development, and national pride. With major international events on the horizon and significant infrastructure investments, Cebu appears poised to reclaim its position as a premier destination where sports excellence meets tourism innovation.
