TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) — Bohol welcomed 163 Japanese tourists on May 2, 2026, as the province received its first direct charter flight from Japan via Cebu Pacific flight 5J8811 from Narita International Airport to Bohol-Panglao International Airport.
The flight was chartered by JTB Asia Pacific Corporation, with support from tourism stakeholders and the Bohol provincial government.
“This forms part of our strategic efforts in foreign business missions to strengthen global tourism partnerships and expand market reach,” Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne M. Pinat said.
Pinat said the full charter flight signals renewed confidence in the province as an international travel destination.
“In this time of crisis and tough regional competition, this full flight is a signal of renewed market trust, a move towards higher-value tourism, and strategic positioning of Bohol as a globally connected, sustained destination,” she added.
Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado expressed optimism over the development, citing 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,” Aumentado said.
(We are happy with the growth of tourism in Bohol. Despite economic difficulties, the province remains one of the preferred destinations for both local and international tourists, and our tourism sector continues to thrive.)
Aumentado, Pinat, and key tourism and aviation stakeholders personally welcomed the visitors, who were greeted with a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival.
During the welcome reception, Aumentado also met with Japanese Consul General in Cebu Yudai Ueno, underscoring efforts to strengthen ties between Bohol and Japan.
Aumentado said the provincial government has been working with Aboitiz InfraCapital, the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Foreign Affairs to explore other international charter markets and streamline the visa-upon-arrival process for neighboring Asian countries. (ECB/PIA-7 Bohol)
