Panglao, Bohol — Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) marked a significant milestone in its connectivity expansion as it warmly welcomed 163 Japanese visitors on May 2, 2026, arriving via the first-ever chartered flight from Narita, Japan to Panglao, Bohol operated by Cebu Pacific via 5J8811.
The arrival signals a renewed interest from the Japanese market and underscores Bohol’s growing appeal as a premier destination for international travelers. Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado expressed optimism about the development, emphasizing its importance in boosting the local tourism industry and economy.
“This is a very encouraging development for Bohol. We are hopeful that this chartered flight will pave the way for regular international arrivals, particularly from Japan, which has always been a valued tourism market for us,” Governor Aumentado said.
Driving this initiative forward is Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), the operator of BPIA. Joining the Governor’s official delegation during the September 2025 Bohol Business Mission to Japan, ABAC held exclusive talks with charter flight organizer JTB Corporation. These discussions highlighted the airport’s modern infrastructure and laid the groundwork for expanding Japanese tourist arrivals in Bohol.
Building on these engagements, ABAC also conducted on-site inspection in Tagbilaran in October to assess the readiness and adequacy of the airport’s Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (ICQ) facilities—a crucial step in ensuring seamless international operations and passenger experience.
Bohol-Panglao International Airport General Manager Aldwin Uy highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in enabling international connectivity. “We are proud to support this milestone arrival made possible through our strong partnership with Cebu Pacific, the Provincial Government of Bohol, and our tourism partners in Japan. This charter flight demonstrates Bohol-Panglao International Airport’s readiness to handle international traffic, connecting travelers to Bohol’s unique experiences and opportunities, while we continue enhancing our facilities and passenger experience to support stronger international operations.”
The visiting Japanese tourists were welcomed with a warm reception upon arrival, showcasing Boholano hospitality and culture. Local tourism stakeholders and airport authorities coordinated closely to ensure a seamless and memorable arrival experience.
Bohol-Panglao International Airport, known as the country’s first eco-airport, continues to play a vital role in enhancing connectivity and supporting the province’s tourism growth. By connecting travelers to destinations like Bohol, the airport helps open pathways to local communities, businesses, and experiences—supporting a more inclusive and sustainable tourism ecosystem. The successful arrival of this charter flight reflects ongoing efforts to position Bohol as a key gateway for international travel in the Philippines.
With this milestone, stakeholders remain optimistic about further strengthening international air links and sustaining the upward trajectory of Bohol’s tourism sector.
