The Philippine tourism sector has generated USD 4.2 billion (PHP 242 billion) in visitor receipts from January 1 to June 18, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT). Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced on Thursday that this figure represents a year-on-year increase of 0.48 percent.
As of July 30, the DOT recorded a total of 3,473,726 international visitors, comprising 3.15 million foreigners and 317,536 overseas Filipinos. In a media briefing held in Makati City, Frasco indicated that the DOT is planning to recalibrate its targets for 2025 to address the challenges currently facing the sector.
Despite these challenges, aggressive promotional efforts will continue in the Philippines’ key markets, including South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Frasco also mentioned that the DOT aims to enhance the Philippines’ exposure in Canada to attract more Canadian visitors, particularly following the recent launch of direct flights from Air Canada.
In addition to established markets, Manila is exploring emerging markets to boost tourist arrivals, including Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and India. “We’re taking a very close look at these exciting markets, especially India, which now has visa-free access and forthcoming direct flights to Manila,” Frasco stated.
Diversifying Tourism Offerings
Frasco highlighted that the Philippines is diversifying its tourism offerings to include gastronomy, halal tourism, cultural arts, and experiential travel. She also disclosed that the DOT is providing training on Pag-asa Island in the Kalayaan Island Group to prepare it for tourism.
A tourism master plan is currently in development for Pag-asa Island. “I have advised TIEZA (Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority) that even prior to the finalization of the master plan, it’s important for us to provide short-term interventions like jetty ports, restrooms, and the like. This way, while the long-term plan is being finalized and executed in the coming years, the island can already benefit from touristic activities,” she explained.
Frasco expressed confidence that TIEZA will coordinate effectively and conduct public consultations in collaboration with other government agencies to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives.