Bohol marked a milestone in its tourism recovery and expansion with the arrival of its first direct chartered flight from Japan, signaling stronger international connectivity and growing global interest in the province.
This was after a total of 164 Japanese tourists arrived on May 2, 2026, via Cebu Pacific flight 5J8811 from Narita International Airport to Bohol–Panglao International Airport.
The flight is a chartered service by JTB Asia Pacific Corporation, supported by tourism stakeholders and led by Governor Aris Aumentado’s business mission to Japan last year.
The launch of the new route is expected to open more opportunities for Bohol’s sustainable tourism industry and local economy, reinforcing the province’s position as the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, known for its unique natural landscapes, rich culture, and diverse offerings.
During the welcome reception, Governor Aumentado met with the Japanese Consul General in Cebu, Yudai Ueno, highlighting efforts to deepen relations between Bohol and Japan.
“I’m very happy to be back here. You have a very good airport. Japan’s and Bohol’s relationship is very good, and now we have a chartered flight from Japan to boost Bohol’s tourism,” Consul General Ueno said.
The governor, along with Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne Pinat and key tourism and aviation stakeholders, personally welcomed the visitors, who were greeted with a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival.
“Mas daghang international tourists nga mubisita sa Bohol, mas dako nga advantage sa atong tourism industry. We’re looking forward sa regular flights direkta gikan sa Japan,” Aumentado said.
Additionally, Aumentado expressed optimism over the development, emphasizing the resilience of the local tourism sector.
“Nalipay kita sa kalamboan sa atong turismo sa Bohol nga bisan pa man sa kakulian sa ekonomiya apan padayon nga ang Probinsya sa Bohol usa sa mga gipili nga destinasyon sa atong mga turista mapa-local man o internasyonal busa aktibo gihapon ang atong turismo.”
Furthermore, Aumentado also revealed that the provincial government has been working closely with Abotiz InfraCapital, the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Foreign Affairs in exploring other markets on international chartered flights to Bohol and easing the ‘visa upon arrival’ process as requested by neighboring Asian countries.
Also present at the event were Aldwin Uy, Airport General Manager from Aboitiz InfraCapital; Anghelo Ibañez, Acting Airport Manager – Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines; and Leonides Senica, Panglao Municipal Tourism Officer.
Anchored with its Strategic Governance Roadmap, the provincial government remains committed to sustaining tourism growth through strategic partnerships, improved accessibility, and continued promotion of Bohol as a premier and sustainable travel destination. (PIMO/JSS)
