The Department of Tourism (DOT) has partnered with Mastercard to implement digital and experience-based programs aimed at assisting micro, small, and medium enterprises across the Philippines.
The collaboration, set over three years, focuses on promoting regional development by helping local tourism stakeholders adopt digital payment systems and related technologies.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara Mathay said the initiative seeks to support communities and smaller businesses in improving their participation in the tourism sector.
Data from the program showed that merchant-led activities have generated more than Php 6.3 million in sales, benefiting businesses involved in travel, dining, and cultural services.
To support planning and monitoring, the department has been using Mastercard’s data analytics platform to track visitor spending trends and identify emerging destinations.
Officials said the information helps direct tourism demand toward areas that may require additional economic support.
Businesses in Metro Manila, Baguio, Bohol, Bicol, and Ilocos have also been included in a global platform that promotes curated travel and cultural experiences to a wider audience.
The DOT said the partnership is intended to help ensure that tourism-related economic activity reaches local communities and smaller enterprises.