The Department of Tourism (DOT) has called for the immediate passage of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) bill, citing its potential to boost tourism expenditures in the country.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco expressed full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s renewed focus on leveraging tourism to expand job creation, following his recent State of the Nation Address.
“This legislation sets the stage for a favourable financial environment for service-oriented businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector, through incentives tailored to meet their operational requirements,” Frasco said.
She highlighted the pivotal role of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority in attracting private sector investments to enhance tourism infrastructure and expand industry opportunities.
The CREATE bill, endorsed as a key legislative measure, aims to refine existing regulations by optimizing tax incentives and clarifying VAT benefits to stimulate economic growth.
Frasco also welcomed Marcos's initiatives to enhance tourism competitiveness through infrastructure development, e-Visa enhancements, and the introduction of E-gates, positioning the Philippines as a premier tourism destination in the region.
"Efforts to modernize Philippine airports enhance the overall service quality for travellers while simultaneously boosting the country’s attractiveness as a leading tourism destination in the region,” Frasco said.
She commended Marcos's advocacy for "experiential tourism," which promotes Philippine destinations offering rich cultural and culinary experiences.
Frasco underscored the importance of a comprehensive strategy to address evolving challenges in the tourism sector.
“This statement aligns with our continuous promotion of culture and identity, fitting seamlessly with our strategic focus outlined in the National Tourism Development Plan 2023 to 2028,” Frasco said.
Under Marcos's leadership, the DOT continues to showcase the Philippines through innovative programs like the Philippine Experience Program and specialized tourism segments such as dive tourism and gastronomy tourism.
Frasco reiterated their commitment to promoting the Philippines globally, collaborating closely to highlight its unique attractions to the world.