Travel between Central Visayas and southeastern China is about to get easier. A new direct air route connecting Cebu and Fujian is set to launch soon, opening another gateway for tourism and cultural exchange. The development signals renewed momentum in people-to-people ties between the two countries. Read on for what travelers and businesses can expect.
Announcement in Manila
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan revealed the plan during the launch of Chinatown Revitalization Phase II at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Manila. The event was attended by Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. Officials framed the new route as a step toward strengthening bilateral connections. The announcement comes amid continuing diplomatic exchanges between Manila and Beijing.
Flight Schedule And Rollout
The direct service between Cebu and Fujian is scheduled to begin on March 29. Initial operations will run twice weekly, with the possibility of additional flights if passenger demand grows. According to the ambassador, Cebu stakeholders had long pushed for the route to improve accessibility. The move is expected to benefit both tourism and business travel.
Why Fujian Matters?
Chinese officials noted that a large portion of Filipino-Chinese families trace their roots to Fujian. The new connection is expected to make heritage visits and family travel more convenient. It also opens the door for more Chinese tourists to fly directly to Cebu under existing visa-free arrangements for certain tour groups. Industry observers say the route could further strengthen regional tourism flows.
Government Welcomes The Move
President Marcos expressed appreciation for the development, saying he hopes the flights will spark greater interaction between the Philippines and China. He described the new link as a potential starting point for deeper people-to-people exchanges. The Chinese side also signaled plans to add two more direct flights between Manila and Fujian due to rising tourist traffic. Officials from both countries say continued cooperation will be key to ensuring safe and steady travel growth.