DOT hails bicam backing as tourism spending fuels ₱3.86-trillion economy
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- DOT thanks Bicameral Conference Committee for backing tourism budget.
- Tourism generated ₱3.86-trillion in total receipts, including ₱700 billion from foreign visitors.
- Sector contributed 8.9% to GDP and supported 16 million jobs.
- Increased promotions budget to expand campaigns, boost arrivals, and strengthen destinations.
- Tourism investments stimulate growth across transportation, agriculture, retail, creative industries, and local governments.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday, Dec. 19, thanked the Bicameral Conference Committee for supporting the sector’s budget, saying sustained investment in tourism drives economic growth and job creation.
DOT highlighted that even with a reduced P100 million promotions budget in 2024, the tourism industry generated P3.86 trillion in total receipts, including a record P700 billion from foreign visitors.
The sector contributed 8.9 percent to the country's Gross Dmoestic Product (GDP) and supported around 16 million jobs.
Tourism continues to provide stable income and employment across regions, supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises, the DOT noted.
The increased promotions budget will allow DOT to expand targeted campaigns, strengthen market presence, and boost visitor arrivals and spending, according to the agency.
It added that tourism investments also stimulate growth in transportation, agriculture, retail, creative industries, and local government activities nationwide.
The DOT commended lawmakers for approving a budget based on data and measurable outcomes, which, it said, ensures funds translate into jobs and regional development.