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Philippines leads ASEAN-Japan push for sustainable tourism

Philippines | National

Philippines leads ASEAN-Japan push for sustainable tourism

By Trixee Rosel

At A Glance

DOT and AJC convened tourism leaders and stakeholders.
Initiative supports ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026–2030.
Highlights resilient, inclusive, and eco-friendly tourism.
Strengthens Philippines' role in regional tourism cooperation.

The Philippines is setting the pace in regional sustainable tourism as the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) gathered tourism leaders and stakeholders to discuss best practices and long-term strategies.

DOT OIC-Director Alex Macatuno said the initiative highlights the country’s commitment to resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism.

He added that the plan emphasizes digital transformation, workforce development, seamless travel, and emission reduction across the tourism value chain.

The session featured a panel discussion with representatives from Japan, the Philippines, and Lao PDR.

Keynote insights were provided by Junko Yoshida of the UN Tourism Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific, while H.E. Dr. Kunihiko Hirabayashi, Secretary-General of the ASEAN-Japan Centre, delivered the closing remarks.

DOT Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso and Takeshi Nakano, Vice Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency, underscored ASEAN’s shared vision for sustainable tourism.

The gathering reinforced the Philippines’ leadership in regional tourism cooperation.

Related Tags

Philippines ASEAN Japan regional tourism

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