Tourism stakeholders from the private sector and government gathered to recognize former Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco as she prepares to take on a new role as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities.
Representatives from airlines, hotels, travel and tours, food and gastronomy, wellness, sports, and the academe, along with Department of Tourism regional directors, attended the event and acknowledged her leadership during her tenure.
Former DOT Sec. Christina Garcia Frasco with former DOT Sec. Mina Gabor.
Industry groups said Frasco focused on collaboration with local governments and private partners, as well as programs on sustainable tourism, infrastructure development, and global promotion of Philippine destinations.
Former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor said Frasco demonstrated a results-oriented approach, noting, “When you say something to her, she implements it.”
Gabor added that this ability to act on proposals contributed to progress in the sector.
Former DOT Sec. Christina Garcia Frasco with Michelin -recognized chef Miggy Moreno.
Chef Miguel Moreno said her leadership encouraged travel to various parts of the country and helped highlight cultural destinations that were previously less explored by some sectors of the industry.
Stakeholders also cited the expansion of medical and wellness tourism during her term, which they said strengthened the country’s positioning as a destination for health and wellness services.
Tourism Congress of the Philippines President James Montenegro said Frasco maintained open communication with industry stakeholders and addressed concerns raised to the department.
Officials and industry representatives said her tenure emphasized coordination and broader participation across regions. Frasco, a former mayor of Liloan, Cebu, was appointed tourism chief in 2022 before moving to her new role.