THE Department of Tourism (DoT) said it expects to sustain industry growth following last year’s performance, citing the administration’s prioritization of tourism.
“The President’s prioritization of the industry enabled it to achieve record-breaking numbers and notable milestones in 2023,” said Tourism Chief Maria Esperanza Christina G. Frasco in a statement sent over the weekend.
“The DoT is optimistic about achieving even greater heights for Philippine tourism this year and in the coming years,” she added.
Ms. Frasco noted that 2023 became a banner year for the tourism sector, contributing 8.6% to the country’s gross domestic product, marking the highest growth rate in tourism direct gross value added in 24 years.
The sector also recorded a $2.45 billion net trade surplus last year, the first in 15 years, and P509 billion in investments, a 34% increase from the previous year.
The industry exceeded its 4.8 million international arrival target for last year by welcoming 5.45 million international visitors in 2023, a 75.3% increase from the previous year.
As of July 19, the country had already received 3.33 million international arrivals, representing 43% of the DoT’s 7.7 million target for 2024.
Meanwhile, January-to-June tourism earnings grew 32.8% to P282.17 billion from P212.47 billion in the same period last year.
Ms. Frasco said that with Mr. Marcos’ support, the DoT was able to craft and implement innovative programs that enhanced the quality of tourism services and expanded opportunities nationwide, resulting in longer stays and increased spending.
“Together with our partners across government agencies and the private sector, we have worked collaboratively toward the President’s aspiration for the Philippines to take its rightful position on the global tourism stage,” she added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
