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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Direct flights set to increase Israeli tourist arrivals in the Philippines, DOT says

Direct flights set to increase Israeli tourist arrivals in the Philippines, DOT says

Published Dec 3, 2024 12:51 pm

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The Department of Tourism is eyeing more direct flights to and from Israel in a bid to further boost tourist arrivals in the Philippines through pilgrimage and adventure.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said the new direct flight routes between the two countries are expected to attract more Israeli visitors as the country could offer a unique combination of spiritual and leisure destinations, especially with the upcoming Roman Catholic Jubilee Year in 2025.

During her meeting with Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz in Makati, Frasco discussed the growing potential for Israeli tourism in the Philippines as sheemphasized that the country is a premier destination for both pilgrimage and adventure tourism.

These include world-renowned dive spots, rich cultural heritage, and diverse gastronomy.

Katz expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Filipino tourists to the Holy Land and proposed launching weekly direct flights between the two nations to enhance travel opportunities and strengthen tourism relations.

DOT data shows that Israeli tourist arrivals have steadily increased, with 13,835 visitors recorded this year.

Katz believes direct flights could draw up to 100,000 Israeli visitors annually and would position the Philippines as a key Southeast Asian destination for Israeli travelers.

Despite the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) advisory against non-essential travel to Israel due to ongoing security concerns, the DOT remains committed to enhancing collaborations with Israel in pilgrimage, heritage, diving, and gastronomy tourism.

Frasco stressed that tourism plays a pivotal role in strengthening cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

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