Launching Of Xiamen-Cebu Route Bolsters Cebu-Xiamen Sister City Partnership

Consul General Julius Caesar A. Flores led a delegation of Fujian media and tour operators as guests of Xiamen Air’s inaugural flight on 28 March 2016 for the Xiamen-Cebu route. The 25 media representatives come from print, broadcast and TV sectors from the cities of Xiamen, Fuzhou and Quanzhou.

The delegation was accompanied by officials from Xiamen Air namely, Vice General Manager Zhang Yousong, Mr. Lin Huagon of Xiamen Airlines-Manila, and Sales Manager Yin Yixi as well from Xiamen Airlines International Travel Service including General Manager Deng Dongtao and Vice General Manager Hong Yongjin.

Consul General Flores and his entourage called on Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama at the City Hall. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Gaisano led Cebu’s business community in joining the call on Mayor Rama.Consul General Flores underscored the importance of nurturing the sister-city partnership between Cebu and Xiamen and that the inaugural flight of Xiamen Airlines is a valuable opportunity for both sides to enhance the partnership of 32 years. Consul General Flores handed to Mayor Rama some memorabilia to commemorate the first Cebu-Xiamen Friendship Day in October 26, 2015.

Mayor Rama hosted a dinner reception for the delegation. During their stay in Cebu City, the delegation visited various points of interest including the Cross of Magellan, Fort San Pedro and the Sto. Nino Basilica. From Cebu City, the delegation proceeded to visit the eco-tourism destinations in Cebu, Bohol and Negros Oriental.

As part of its economic diplomacy thrusts, the Consulate General pursued to encourage airlines to open more air links between Fujian cities and the Philippines to enhance opportunities for trade, business, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, notwithstanding deepening friendship and understanding between the Philippines and Fujian province.

The route, which is Xiamen Air latest destination this year, will be serviced thrice weekly (Monday, Wednesday and Saturday). Cebu Pacific Air used to service the route years ago. END