𝗣𝗛 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗛𝗣 𝟱.𝟵𝗧, 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵

The Philippine tourism sector is set to achieve an unprecedented milestone in 2025, with projected revenue hitting a staggering PHP 5.9 trillion. This remarkable growth cements tourism's position as the biggest contributor to the nation's economic expansion, according to recent forecasts from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and welcomed by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The anticipated PHP 5.9 trillion injection into the national economy represents a significant 13.5% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and is expected to account for an impressive 21% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This marks a new all-time high for the industry's contribution to the Philippine economy, underscoring its significant role in national development.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, in a statement, expressed gratitude for the projections, attributing the success to the DOT's strategic shift towards elevating the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse in Asia. "Our resolve to leverage our culture, diversify our tourism products, introduce innovations, and focus on quality and sustainability in tourism is bearing fruit, with tourism spending and employment now in record high numbers," Secretary Frasco stated.

The WTTC's 2025 Economic Impact Research (EIR) further highlights that the tourism sector is poised to support 11.7 million livelihoods this year, accounting for nearly a quarter (23.8%) of all national employment. This significant job creation underscores the industry's broad impact across various communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Both international and domestic visitor spending are on an upward trajectory. International visitor spending is projected to reach PHP 709.2 billion, surpassing the 2019 peak by 2.1%. Meanwhile, domestic tourism spending is anticipated to hit PHP 4.1 trillion, a robust 9.3% increase over its previous high.

Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the WTTC, lauded the Philippines as a "standout example of how Travel & Tourism, when supported by a clear, long-term vision, can deliver real economic impact and long-term opportunity." She emphasized that the country's success is a testament to its extraordinary appeal, its policy focus on tourism as a growth engine, and the dynamism of its people and private sector.

The sustained growth is attributed to ongoing government initiatives focused on strengthening air connectivity, investing in tourism infrastructure, and prioritizing destination resilience. The DOT has been actively developing nearly 100 Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) in key destinations and promoting traveler assistance platforms. Programs like the Philippine Experience Program and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours are also being rolled out to showcase regional circuits, culinary heritage, festivals, and wellness retreats.

While the overall outlook is overwhelmingly positive, the DOT continues to work on addressing challenges, such as the reported sluggishness in tourist arrivals from some major markets in early 2025. However, the comprehensive strategies in place aim to attract higher-yield foreign tourists and enhance destination marketing efforts to ensure sustained momentum.

With these impressive figures, Philippine tourism has truly emerged as a formidable engine of economic growth, creating widespread opportunities and cementing the nation's reputation as a top global travel destination.

News by: Cee J Galang

Photo Courtesy: GMA News