Marcos says tourist arrivals show PH tourism recovery

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has said the tourist arrivals in the country have proven the tourism industry's recovery.

In a speech delivered by Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina Garcia Frasco during the Tourism Summit 2024 on Monday, Marcos said the Department of Tourism (DOT) has been intensifying efforts to enhance tourism services in the country by implementing the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.

More than two million tourist arrivals have been recorded in the first four months of the year, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

"These numbers, and the accompanying visible increase in economic activities and commerce across our famous destinations, are a testament to the industry's recovery," Marcos said.

"These also prove that the active participation of every stakeholder matters; that one's perseverance to acquire more skills, know-how, and networks makes a difference in our tourism agenda. At the same time, these numbers pose a challenge for us to translate these gains into tangible benefits – benefits for our people, our communities and our economy," he added.

In 2023, the DOT recorded 5.5 million inbound tourists, the PCO said, which is 15% higher than the 4.8 million target for the year.

Marcos also highlighted the contribution of the private sector to the country's tourism industry, which has made the Philippine destinations stand out from others.

"To the exemplary industry leaders, content creators, and key players who are making an impact in the tourism community: You are serving your country well with your exceptional work. You are also showing us what it takes, what it requires, to give the Philippines that edge over other destinations," Marcos said.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let us continue this partnership between the government and the private sector, working together to support our MSMEs, including those catering to the needs of the tourism industry," he added.

Marcos urged the private sector "to bring the rewards of a thriving tourism industry directly to the Filipino people" as he reminded them to always keep in mind the need to protect the environment, to care for all people, and to utilize the resources with great prudence.

In June last year, the DOT unveiled the Philippines' new tourism slogan, "Love the Philippines."

"Love the Philippines" replaced "It's More Fun in the Philippines", the country's invitation to travelers since 2012. — VDV, GMA Integrated News