Philippine officials say tourism rises on policy reforms, global linkages
The Philippines continues to position itself as a top global travel destination with sustained policy reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and expanded international partnerships, according to the official of the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT).
Speaking at a luncheon hosted by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted that the country is actively preparing for future demand by working closely with private sector stakeholders.
“Their group has really been such a wonderful resource for us to ensure that not only are we able to sustain the offerings that we already have in the accommodation sector, but that we are able to prepare for projected demand,” Frasco said, referring to the Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA).
Currently, the Philippines has around 335,000 room keys across its destinations. “By 2028, it is projected that there will be a demand for around 456,000 keys. There are many more rooms to build,” she added.
Key programmes promote access and cultural heritage
Frasco also presented the department’s major initiatives to support this growth, including the rollout of Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) in strategic locations and the Philippine Experience Program (PEP): Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravan.
Efforts to expand the country’s gastronomy tourism are also underway, bolstered by the recent arrival of the Michelin Guide. “We are building up our gastronomy portfolio, which highlights our culinary heritage and enhances our global appeal,” she noted.
Workforce development and global connectivity
Tourism Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso earlier confirmed that international visitor spending in the Philippines now averages $2,073 per person, the highest in Southeast Asia. The sector’s recovery has reached 126 percent of pre-pandemic levels.
To support growing visitor numbers, the DOT has introduced visa reforms, including e-Visas for Indian nationals and visa-free access for over 150 nationalities. New direct international flight routes from United Airlines, Air Canada, Air France, and Philippine Airlines further improve connectivity.
Integrated resorts seen as tourism, investment drivers
Complementing DOT’s tourism expansion, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) earlier said it is moving ahead with a nationwide integrated resort expansion strategy.
A new resort in Entertainment City is expected to open this year, with additional projects in Cebu and Boracay by 2026. An economic zone in Central Luzon is also in development and is targeted for 2027.
Last year, the Philippines’ gaming industry achieved record-breaking gross gaming revenues (GGR) of PHP372.33 billion (€6.14 billion). PAGCOR said this record was primarily driven by a massive surge in the eGames and eBingo sector, which grew by 165.7 percent year-on-year to PHP154.51 billion (€2.55 billion).
