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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Tour packages encourage local travel amid soaring gas prices, says DOT exec

Tour packages encourage local travel amid soaring gas prices, says DOT exec

Published May 17, 2026 01:43 pm
BAGUIO CITY – Tour packages that fit a certain budget will encourage the public to travel and help boost economy even during times of soaring oil and commodity prices, a Department of Tourism official said Saturday.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano discussed about the importance of local travel and how such promotions showcase tourist areas and enhance collaboration with tourism stakeholders.
“At a time when Filipinos are more mindful of travel costs, initiatives like the regional travel fair help in tourism enterprises to generate jobs, and encourage Filipinos to appreciate the beauty of our destinations,” Tamano said during the opening of the “Business to Consumer” session of the travel fair here.
“This reminds us that tourism is also about people, shared experiences, and collective effort to build the economy and give information for future generation to learn about the people, culture, and the beauty of the country,” he said.
The three-day travel fair is a regular activity of the Tourism Promotions Board that aims to boost the local economy through promotion of tourism activities.
The session allowed tour agencies and promoters within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to link up with providers and other stakeholders for their tour packages and offers.
Tamano said the regional travel fair has proven itself to be an important platform that drives local economies.
It also shows resilience with the innovations done to adopt to the changing time, especially during the pandemic and this crisis.
There are at least 70 exhibitors coming from across the nation that are participating in the B2C sessions.
Meanwhile, Jovi Ganongan, DOT-CAR director, said the region is "proud" to showcase its beauty, resilience, and creativity.
"Over the years, the region has continued to develop tourism products that highlight sustainability, cultural preservation, and community participation, values that remain essential as we move toward a more responsible and inclusive tourism industry," she said.
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that in 2025, tourism contributed 8.9 percent to the country's Gross Domestic Product, spurring growth even in local communities with the creation of jobs. (PNA)

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