MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) is expecting more than 30 million domestic and international travelers to visit destinations across the country during the Holy Week break.
In a statement released Friday, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said DOT has activated its regional operations to ensure smooth coordination and monitoring of tourist hotspots nationwide.
“Overall, we are delighted to note that Filipinos are actively traveling within the country, and our international tourists are enjoying experiential, meaningful and enriching experiences,” Frasco said.
“With this, we continue to encourage both international and local travelers to choose DOT-accredited establishments as we prioritize tourist safety and convenience.”
Frasco stressed that booking with DOT-accredited establishments ensures not only standardized services but also protection from travel scams.
Top Holy Week destinations this year include Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Palawan, Siargao, Baguio, Batangas, Ilocos Norte and Sur, Pampanga, Pangasinan, and Puerto Galera. Emerging tourist spots such as Camiguin, Siquijor, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and Sarangani are also gaining popularity.
In Metro Manila, Intramuros remains a top draw for heritage and faith-based tourism, with around 2.4 million visitors expected this season—up from 2.2 million last year—thanks to cultural attractions and Holy Week traditions like Visita Iglesia.
“I also just want to remind na active po, and live ‘yung ating Tourist Assistance Call Center. +151-TOUR (151-8687),” Frasco said.
“And we have already launched the Korean-speaking call center agent. And very recently, we have also already launched the Mandarin-speaking call center agents. So we’ve catered to over 14,000 calls already from 72 countries.”
The public may also reach DOT for tourism concerns via mobile at 0954-253-3215, email at tourismassistance@tourism.gov.ph, or through Facebook Messenger.