Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA), operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) Airports, officially marked a historic milestone on May 2, 2026, as it welcomed its first-ever direct chartered flight from Japan.
Cebu Pacific Flight 5J8811, carrying 163 Japanese tourists, touched down directly from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport. Upon arrival, the aircraft was greeted with a traditional ceremonial water cannon salute, signaling a major leap forward in the province’s international tourism drive and global connectivity.
The landmark flight was chartered by JTB Asia Pacific Corporation with the active collaboration and support of the Provincial Government of Bohol, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and local tourism stakeholders. The arrival of the full charter flight underscores a strong post-pandemic recovery and reflects renewed international confidence in Bohol as a premium travel destination.
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado warmly received the arriving passengers alongside Japanese Consul General in Cebu Yudai Ueno and Bohol Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne M. Pinat.
“We warmly welcome this direct chartered flight from Japan. This is a significant milestone that strengthens our international relations and opens up massive opportunities for our local tourism industry and economy,” Governor Aumentado said. “Despite global economic challenges, Bohol remains a highly preferred destination for international travelers. More direct arrivals mean greater economic opportunities for our communities, from local tour operators and transport services to accommodations and dining establishments.”
Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne M. Pinat echoed this optimism, noting that the successful charter flight is a direct result of recent strategic business missions to Japan designed to forge international tourism partnerships.
“In a highly competitive regional market, this full flight serves as a strong signal of market trust. It represents a strategic shift toward attracting higher-value tourism and firmly positions Bohol as a sustainable, globally connected destination,” Pinat stated.
As the Philippines’ first “eco-airport,” the Aboitiz-operated Bohol-Panglao International Airport is uniquely positioned to champion sustainable tourism. Operating on solar energy and utilizing advanced natural ventilation systems, BPIA ensures that a traveler’s green journey begins the moment they land.
By enabling direct international routes like Narita-to-Bohol, AIC Airports helps travelers bypass multi-leg transit routes, significantly minimizing their carbon footprint while maximizing their immersive experience on the island.
This landmark arrival coincides with ongoing collaborative initiatives between AIC Airports, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, and the provincial government to highlight Bohol’s rich cultural, culinary, and natural heritage. With seamless direct flights, visitors are brought closer to Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills, pristine beaches, and community-based heritage tours—such as traditional chocolate-making at Lasang Farm and the preservation of heritage crafts like asin tibuok—creating meaningful connections that benefit local communities.
Looking ahead, the provincial government of Bohol, in coordination with Aboitiz InfraCapital, the DOT, and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), is actively exploring additional international charter markets and advocating for streamlined visa-upon-arrival processes to encourage more direct flights from neighboring Asian countries.
