Traditional dances by the Blaan and Tagakaolo tribes open the Philippine Experience Program: SOCCSKARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) at the Center for Community Transformation in Malungon town, Sarangani province on June 5, 2024. Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco led the delegates. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)
The Department of Tourism (DOT) hailed Japan’s decision to lower its travel advisory levels for certain parts of Mindanao, describing it as a strong affirmation of the region’s safety and potential as a premier tourist destination.
In December 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs downgraded travel warnings for Japanese nationals visiting several areas in Mindanao. Effective December 19, the updated advisory reduced the risk level for the Davao region—including Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental—from Level 2 to Level 1.
These areas align with cities like Mati, Tagum, Samal, Davao, and Digos, previously designated Level 1.
The advisory also eased travel warnings for Surigao City in the Caraga Region and areas in Northern Mindanao, including Misamis Oriental, to Level 1. Cagayan de Oro City, Jasaan, Villanueva, Tagoloan, and the Siargao Islands remain at Level 1, signaling minimal risks but a recommendation to “take extra care” when traveling.
Additionally, the travel warning for the eastern part of Sarangani Province, covering Malungon, Alabel, Malapatan, and Glan, was lowered from Level 3 to Level 2. However, the western parts of Sarangani Province, including Maitum, Kiamba, and Maasim, remain under Level 3, where travel is discouraged.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco welcomed the update and thanked the Japanese government for recognizing the improved safety and security in Mindanao.
“This significant development underscores the positive strides made in ensuring safety across Mindanao. It also highlights the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and showcasing the beauty of lesser-known destinations,” Frasco said in a statement issued on January 2.
Frasco expressed optimism that Japan would encourage other nations to revisit their travel advisories for the Philippines. “The Philippines offers far more than its iconic sun and beach destinations.
With its rich culture, gastronomy, and breathtaking attractions, Mindanao has so much to offer both local and international tourists,” she added.
Japan remains a vital market for Philippine tourism. It is the third-largest source of international visitors, with 378,935 Japanese nationals traveling to the country as of December 28, 2024.
To further boost tourism, the DOT is intensifying its promotional campaigns in Japan, highlighting Mindanao’s unique offerings. Davao and Siargao Island, known for their gastronomy, pristine beaches, and surfing spots, are beautiful to Japanese travelers. In Northern Mindanao, activities such as golfing, swimming, diving, and birdwatching are popular among Japanese visitors.
The DOT’s efforts to enhance safety and diversify the country’s tourism portfolio underscore the administration’s vision of creating a more inclusive and sustainable tourism landscape across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.