Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan International Airport (ALAC), the operator of Laguindingan International Airport (LIA), in partnership with Limketkai Luxe Hotel, recently convened the Strategic Tourism Dialogue on May 19, 2026, with key stakeholders and decision-makers from the hospitality, travel, tourism, and aviation sectors across Northern Mindanao amidst the current geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
With the industry facing significant challenges, including volatile fuel supply conditions and rising operational costs, these factors directly influence airfare pricing, travel demand, and overall destination competitiveness.
“The aviation and tourism sectors are inextricably linked; when global headwinds such as volatile jet fuel prices and rising operational costs challenge our airline partners, the entire regional ecosystem feels the shift,” shared Engr. Ryan Ermac, General Manager of Laguindingan International Airport. “By aligning closely with our hotel and tourism partners, and developing agile scenario-planning, we are bringing the same proactive management model that has driven sustainable growth across our other gateways. True resilience isn’t just about weathering the storm, but it is built through transparent collaboration, shared foresight, and an unwavering commitment to investing in the facilities and experiences that matter most to our passengers.”
Addressing Industry Headwinds
The Strategic Tourism Dialogue serves as a vital collaborative platform to address these challenges head-on. This fosters meaningful discussions on how the current state of global affairs affects fuel availability, airline economics, and tourism mobility. With the shared understanding that surging aviation fuel costs impact airfare pricing and passenger traffic, the forum centered on forging unified, industry-wide strategies to weather external global challenges. It also provides an avenue for industry partners to share sectoral intelligence, operational insights, and emerging market perspectives.
The collaboration strengthens stakeholders to build resilience and uncover new opportunities, ensuring the region’s tourism ecosystem can navigate present challenges and sustain long-term growth.
“Northern Mindanao’s appeal as a premier destination lies not only in our natural wonders and rich culture, but in the enduring resilience of our industry partners,” said May Unchuan, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 10. “The Strategic Tourism Dialogue is a timely and vital initiative. By bridging the public sector with aviation and hospitality leaders, we are actively shaping adaptive strategies to cushion the impact of global economic headwinds. Together with Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports and our local stakeholders, we are ensuring that Region 10 remains competitive, accessible, and ready to welcome the world despite global uncertainties.”
The dialogue features a comprehensive program designed to maximize targeted discussions among key industry leaders. The dialogue was attended by a diverse roster of industry leaders including DOT Region 10, Misamis Oriental Provincial Tourism Office, Cagayan De Oro City Tourism Office, Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurant Association (COHARA), Cagayan de Oro Travel & Tours Association (COTTA), and the Cagayan de Oro Korean Association.
Looking forward, LIA is committed to serving as a catalyst for economic growth and regional connectivity in Northern Mindanao, working hand-in-hand with industry partners to thrive amid an uncertain global landscape
