The Department of Tourism (DOT) has recorded 80,000 Indian visitors in 2024, which it said, showed a 12 percent increase compared in 2023.
In a statement following the 12th ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers Meeting on Jan. 20, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said the Indian market is becoming increasingly important for Philippine tourism and underscored the potential for further expansion.
While the number of Indian visitors remains lower compared to other ASEAN countries, Frasco noted that the growth reflects an encouraging trend, signaling India’s expanding outbound tourism market.
The Philippines' diverse attractions—ranging from world-class beaches and award-winning dive sites to vibrant cultural experiences and popular wedding destinations like Cebu—have become increasingly appealing to Indian travelers, Frasco added.
She further emphasized that the country’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage offers Indian tourists an ideal mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
To support this growth, the Philippine government has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving travel accessibility, including the Cruise Visa Waiver Program, efforts toward visa liberalization for air and sea travel, and the introduction of electronic visas for Indian nationals.
These initiatives are designed to enhance the convenience and accessibility of travel to the Philippines, positioning the country as a premier destination for Indian travelers.
Additionally, the DOT is strengthening ties with Indian tourism stakeholders through joint working group meetings and business-to-business engagements, fostering greater collaboration between the two nations’ tourism sectors.
With continued growth in Indian arrivals and ongoing improvements to travel processes, the Philippines is poised to tap into India’s rapidly expanding outbound tourism market.