The Philippines earned a record-breaking P760 billion in tourism revenues for 2024, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Monday, Jan. 6.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said the figure reflects a 9.04 percent increase from the P697.46 billion generated in 2023 and surpasses pre-pandemic levels by 26.75 percent.
She emphasized that the sector achieved a remarkable 126.75 percent recovery rate compared to 2019, highlighting its resilience and the success of the Marcos administration’s pro-tourism initiatives.
Frasco credited this growth to strategic policies prioritizing sustainable development, infrastructure enhancements, and workforce skill-building, which have fostered inclusive progress in local communities, particularly in rural areas.
International visitor arrivals surged to 5.95 million in 2024, a 9.15 percent increase from the previous year.
South Korea remained the top source market, followed by the United States and Japan, while emerging markets like Taiwan and Singapore also showed notable growth.
Tourist spending reached new heights, with the average expenditure per visitor increasing to USD 2,073.
Visitors stayed an average of 11 nights, up from nine in 2019, reflecting the Philippines' growing appeal for leisure and incentive travel.
The DOT noted that enhanced air connectivity and targeted marketing campaigns have strengthened the country’s position as a premier global destination, even amid global economic and geopolitical challenges.
Frasco reaffirmed the DOT's dedication to promoting quality growth by focusing on tourism’s meaningful contributions to the economy and local communities rather than solely prioritizing visitor numbers.
With continued support from the Marcos administration and active collaboration with stakeholders, the DOT is determined to solidify the Philippines' status as a world-class destination and maintain its crucial role in national economic development.