The Manila Times
CEBU CITY — Instead of flying back home after the Leaders’ Summit, Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão stayed on here and spent a day of heritage visits that placed the city’s centuries-old landmarks at the center of post-Asean diplomacy. Gusmão toured major historical sites on Saturday, May 9, following the conclusion of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Cebu. His itinerary included the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu, Magellan’s Cross, and Fort San Pedro before he proceeded to Cebu City Hall for a courtesy visit with local officials. Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, and Basilica rector Fr. Albert Benedict Soliman welcomed the visiting leader during the city hall stop. Archival said the visit highlighted Cebu’s historical identity while giving Asean leaders a closer look at its cultural heritage. “It was an honor to welcome Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão during his visit to some of Cebu City’s historical landmarks following the 48th Asean Summit 2026 activities held in Cebu,” Archival said. City officials said the delegation coordinated the heritage tour in advance through local offices. Beyond the cultural tour, discussions also touched on possible cooperation between Cebu and Timor-Leste, particularly in tourism and agriculture. Archival said early exchanges with Timor-Leste officials and its ambassador pointed to shared interests in tourism development and farming technologies, including benchmarking practices. He said the Asean Summit experience strengthened Cebu’s global profile as a host destination for major diplomatic events. “Such visits help strengthen friendship and cultural understanding while showcasing the rich heritage and hospitality of Cebu to the international community,” Archival added.
Go to News Site