DOT Sec. Ma. Esperanza Christina Codilla-Frasco – Photo courtesy of Jess M. Escaros Jr./Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has called for a review of airline regulations amid growing public concern over rising domestic airfares, saying high ticket prices discourage Filipinos from traveling within the country.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco raised the issue during a Senate hearing on Tuesday, urging regulators to require clearer disclosure of airfare pricing and closer monitoring of how rates are set by carriers.
She said airlines operate under government franchises and are therefore expected to comply with laws ensuring that fares remain reasonable, transparent, and subject to effective oversight.
Frasco stressed that while domestic travel continues to drive the tourism industry, sustaining demand will depend on making destinations more accessible and affordable, particularly as airport fees, taxes, and other charges push prices upward.
Industry representatives told senators that infrastructure limits remain a major factor behind high fares, citing short runways and limited airport capacity that restrict flight frequency and force airlines to rely on smaller aircraft with fewer seats.
The DOT said it is working closely with the Civil Aeronautics Board, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Philippine Competition Commission to align regulatory oversight, infrastructure development, and consumer protection, including proposals for a regular airfare pricing index.
On safety and security, the DOT said it is coordinating with the Philippine National Police and local government units to protect tourists, citing the deployment of trained tourist police under its Tourism-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection program and the operation of a tourism assistance call center to respond to visitor concerns.