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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOT signals coordinated push for tourism-led growth under new leadership

DOT signals coordinated push for tourism-led growth under new leadership

Published Apr 17, 2026 12:05 pm

Newly appointed Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay has moved to align key attached agencies under a unified strategy, emphasizing tourism’s role as a driver of inclusive economic growth and signaling a push for stronger coordination early in her term.

(Photo from Department of Tourism)
(Photo from Department of Tourism)

Angara-Mathay convened the heads of the Department of Tourism (DOT) attached agencies on Thursday (April 16) at the DOT Central Office in Makati to discuss priority programs, projects, and initiatives aimed at boosting tourism investments and aligning these with the infrastructure and development agenda of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr..

Present during the meeting were Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid; Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita M. Nograles; Intramuros Administration Administrator Joan M. Padilla; and National Parks Development Committee Executive Director Cecille A. Lorenzana-Romero.

Also in attendance were Duty Free Philippines Corporation Chief Operating Officer Patrick Joel M. Cinco; Philippine Retirement Authority General Manager Roberto Z. Zozobrado; Nayong Pilipino Foundation Executive Director Marygrace A. Ac-ac; and Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving Executive Director Marco Angelo Ancheta.

Earlier, the tourism chief also convened the DOT Executive Committee following her oath of office, underscoring the need for clarity of purpose, strong coordination, and steady leadership as the Department navigates an increasingly complex global environment.

“I join the Department at a time when the global environment remains uncertain and increasingly complex. These conditions call for clarity of purpose, strong coordination, and steady leadership across all levels of the Department,” Angara-Mathay said.

She emphasized that tourism remains a vital pillar of inclusive economic growth, adding that the Department must ensure the sector continues to support livelihoods, strengthen enterprises, and create opportunities for communities nationwide.

“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that the sector continues to support livelihoods, strengthen enterprises, and create opportunities for our communities,” she added.

In her first message to DOT employees, Angara-Mathay also called on personnel across all levels to uphold professionalism, dedication, and a shared sense of purpose in advancing the country’s tourism agenda.

“I count on every member of the Department—across all levels—to bring your professionalism, dedication, and sense of purpose, as we work together in a spirit of accountability, collaboration, and service,” she said.

Related Tags

Department of Tourism tourism tourism sector Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay
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