Go pushes sports tourism nationwide

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged the government and private sector to support sports tourism as the Philippines prepares to host major international competitions in 2027, including the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in Cebu.

During Senate deliberations on the proposed 2027 budgets of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Games and Amusements Board recently, Go said international sporting events could attract foreign visitors, generate economic activity and promote destinations outside Metro Manila.

“Sports tourism is a good initiative. The Philippines is beautiful, and we should encourage our fellow Filipinos to support our own country and travel around it,” Go said.

He welcomed Cebu’s selection as host of the 2027 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, which will be played at the new SM Seaside Cebu Arena in July. He said the tournament would give visitors an opportunity to explore Cebu and nearby destinations, including Bohol.

Go cited the Philippines’ co-hosting of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which contributed an estimated P5 billion to the country’s gross domestic product.