As summer temperatures rise and reports of online scams proliferate, the Cebu Association of Local Tourism Officers (Calto) has intensified its efforts to curb the increasing cases of fraudulent online bookings across Cebu Province.
Coordinated Measures Against Fraud
Calto President Earl Endab, who also serves as the Municipal Tourism Officer of Badian, revealed in an online interview with SunStar Cebu on Sunday, March 1, 2026, that the association has partnered with the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office to address this pressing issue.
"The Cebu Association of Local Tourism Officers together with the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office had come up with measures in addressing the concerns of online scams," stated Endab.
Key Initiatives Implemented
According to Endab, the measures include updating and publishing lists of legitimate tourism establishments on the official social media pages of local government units.
"Each tourism office updated the list of legitimate establishments and published it on their respective social media platforms to guide the public," explained Endab.
Additionally, Calto has coordinated with the PNP Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) to clarify reporting protocols for such incidents.
"We coordinated with the RACU on the proper protocols in reporting these issues to the authorities, which were discussed during meetings organized by the Provincial Tourism Office," Endab added.
Public Awareness and Policy Review
To broaden public information dissemination, Calto has enlisted the help of media partners to alert netizens about ongoing scams.
Endab noted that Provincial Board Tourism Committee Chair Red Duterte has agreed to review potential policies or ordinances at the provincial level to strengthen legal frameworks against fraud.
Tourism offices are also encouraged to partner with accredited booking platforms such as Hiverooms and TechSupport.Ph to ensure safer and more systematic online bookings.
Impact and Common Scam Tactics
Endab disclosed that common scam methods involve "online booking and numerous fake Facebook pages of accommodation establishments."
"It became rampant after the pandemic where the usual transactions are being done online," Endab pointed out.
The consequences are significant, leading to revenue loss for accommodation establishments and negative experiences for tourists, which can damage Cebu's reputation as a travel destination.
Ongoing Monitoring and Recent Cases
Monitoring efforts are currently active, with reported cases including areas in Badian, Sta. Fe on Bantayan Island, and Boljoon.
Calto discussed this issue during their first quarter general meeting on February 26, 2026, held at the Governor’s Conference Hall in the Capitol Building, highlighting its priority on the agenda.
The association remains vigilant in its campaign to protect both local businesses and visitors from deceptive online practices, aiming to restore trust in Cebu's tourism sector.
