How to find more affordable tourist spots amid fuel price hikes, according to DOT

As vacation season begins this summer, the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday advised budget-conscious travelers with alternatives and cost-saving tips for those planning trips amid surging fuel prices.

Value-driven travel options

Whether choosing a near or far destination, travelers may want to engage in activities such as walking or biking tours, the Tourism Department advised.

The DOT said there are also farm visits and community-based tourism activities that allow visitors to engage with locals and experience a destination's unique culture.

Travelers may opt for staycations and wellness and nature escapes within nearby areas for more relaxing options.

They may also immerse themselves in food culture and discover local cuisines or purchase local products to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

“These alternatives provide flexible ways to rest and travel meaningfully, depending on individual priorities and resources,” the DOT said in a social media post.

Plan ahead, go for DOT-accredited enterprises

With the increasing number of visitors to destinations in the country, the DOT advised the public to plan when traveling.

It also urged the public to consider DOT-accredited enterprises and service providers for quality, safety, and reliability.

These enterprises and service providers can be found on the DOT website.

Practice responsible and respectful travel

The DOT also reminded travelers to respect local customs, protect the environment, and support local enterprises and tourism workers.

“Be mindful of energy-saving measures in places you stay or visit. Choose sustainable transport, eco-friendly accommodations, and reduce energy consumption by turning off lights, air conditioning unit, and appliances when not in use,” DOT said.

Stay informed

For verified travel information and updates, travelers may contact the DOT’s official platforms:

• Hotline — 151-TOUR (151-8687)
• Mobile — 0954-253-3215
• Facebook — Department of Tourism – Philippines
• Email — touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph
• Click2Call / Live Webchat — www.tourism.gov.ph

The agency also urged the public to download the Travel PH App to find destinations and attractions when planning a trip.

Fuel companies have set another round of price hikes to mark the 12th straight week of increases for gasoline and the 14th for both diesel and kerosene as the conflict in the Middle East continues.

Diesel prices have increased by as much as P12.90 per liter, gasoline by as much as P2.90 per liter, and kerosene by as much as P2.40 per liter.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on Sunday said the first batch of 1.04 million barrels of diesel is expected to arrive in the country this week.

"The oil diplomacy ably conducted by energy officials led by Secretary Sharon Garin has resulted in the firm order of 1.04 million barrels of diesel, with the first batch arriving this week," he said.  

“From Indonesia also comes the ironclad guarantee of a steady supply of coal,” he added.

The Department of Energy said the Philippines now has a supply of petroleum products good for 50.94 days, with the country set to receive more in the coming months.

This is equivalent to a total inventory of 75.052 million liters, which will last six days longer than the previously reported 45 days.

The country now has 22.326 million liters (59.78 days’ worth) of gasoline; 32.516 million liters (46.93 days’ worth) of diesel; 142,140 liters (107.88 days’ worth) of kerosene; 6.320 million liters (62.69 days’ worth) of jet fuel; 2.472 million liters (57.27 days’ worth) of fuel oil; and 10.274 million liters (34.02 days’ worth) of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA News