The Department of Tourism (DOT) is in full support of President Marcos’ directive. The goal is to generate quality jobs. This is a vital step to eliminate poverty and hunger in the Philippines.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed gratitude. She thanked the President for recognizing tourism. It is a key sector in uplifting Filipino lives through employment and livelihood.
Under the current administration, tourism has become a major economic pillar. It empowers communities and creates jobs. DOT programs prioritize the people’s welfare. Sec. Frasco shares that, “The Philippines is recognized as world class when it comes to hospitality. Of course, the most important is to give our citizens the tourism industry skills so that they are employable to any tourism related industry jobs.”
Tourism now employs 6.75 million Filipinos. This is 13.83% of the country’s total employment. Over 10 million more benefit from indirect employment.
DOT is collaborating with other agencies. These include DSWD, DTI, SBCorp, and DMW. The goal is to provide social protection, loans, and reintegration programs. These are for tourism frontliners, MSMEs, and returning OFWs.
Internal tourism expenditures reached ₱3.86 trillion in 2024. This is 13.12% higher than 2023 and surpasses 2019 levels. The DOT embraces the President’s call for global investment in Filipinos. This is crucial to tourism’s success.
DOT has ensured a world-class tourism workforce. It has implemented high-impact programs like FBSE and TISP. These have trained over 358,000 tourism workers.
The President mentioned finding opportunities for the remaining 4% of the labor force. Tourism is ready to help meet that challenge.
DOT welcomes the President’s support for thriving industries like Halal. DOT has strongly promoted and developed Halal tourism. This aligns with the goal to diversify the country’s tourism portfolio.
DOT appreciates the President’s directive to enhance the tourist experience. This will be achieved through infrastructure projects. These projects are designed for the convenience of both Filipinos and visitors.
The President’s focus on infrastructure, climate change, and peace and security is vital. It will significantly boost the tourism industry.
DOT remains committed to building a globally competitive tourism industry. It is grounded on the mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos. This will be achieved through dignified and sustainable livelihood.
