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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOT: Tourism output may hit record P5.9 trillion in 2025

DOT: Tourism output may hit record P5.9 trillion in 2025

Published Jun 11, 2025 04:24 pm

At A Glance

  • The Department of Tourism (DOT) projects tourism output to reach an all-time high of P5.9 trillion in 2025.
  • DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said this reflects a 13.5% increase from 2019 levels.
  • The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) expects the sector to contribute 21% to the country's GDP.
  • Nearly 100 Tourist Rest Areas are being developed to support key destinations.
  • New direct international flights are seen to further boost tourist arrivals.
Photo: DOT
Photo: DOT
The country’s tourism industry is projected to generate an all-time high of P5.9 trillion this year as the Department of Tourism (DOT) accelerates infrastructure development to improve connectivity and promote culture-driven travel.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco on Wednesday, Jun. 11, said the estimate reflects a 13.5 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019, citing programs that showcase local culture, expand emerging markets, and enhance digital integration in tourism services.
In its latest outlook, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecast the sector to account for 21 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, supported by P4.1 trillion in domestic spending and P709.2 billion in international visitor receipts.
To sustain growth, the DOT is establishing nearly 100 Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) in major destinations and promoting traveler assistance platforms such as the 151-TOUR hotline and the Travel App Philippines.
Frasco also highlighted the Philippine Experience Program and the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours, which promote regional circuits featuring culinary heritage, festivals, wellness retreats, and lesser-known cultural sites.
She added that new direct flights from Air France, Air Canada, Air India, and United Airlines are expected to boost tourist arrivals from Europe, North America, and South Asia.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) show tourism supports 16.4 million jobs, accounting for 34 percent of the national labor force.
WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson recognized the DOT’s initiatives as instrumental in the Philippines’ post-pandemic recovery and its rise as one of Asia’s leading travel destinations.

Related Tags

DOT tourism output PH economy culture-based tourism WTTC
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