By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Department of Tourism (DOT) vowed to revitalize the country’s tourism industry.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco met with major tourism shareholders in Central Europe to discuss ways to bring more tourists to the country.
“We are aiming to invite more German nationals to our shores. After almost three years of setbacks and the global pandemic among the hosts of other calamities, we can finally say the worst is almost over, we flourished and we have survived,” Frasco said.
“Now, the Philippines is thriving and ready for your partnership. Ready to receive all of you and the tourists that you would like to bring into our country,” she continued.
In 2022, the Philippines received a total of 39,013 German nationals, 23,949 French nationals, 19,306 Dutch nationals, 11,092 Swiss nationals, and 8,964 Belgian nationals visited the country.
“And talking about this side of the world, as many of you know, while you are experiencing winter here, we are just about to declare the official start of summer in the Philippines,” Frasco said.
“This is the best time to explore sun and beach destinations which we will make available for you through our overwintering program,” she added.
According to the DOT, the German tourists spend an average of 14.50 nights in the country, mostly for leisure and business, while German tourists prefer Cebu, Palawan, and Bohol.
Frasco said the administration prioritizes the tourism sector, particularly in terms of connectivity, human capital development, and peace and security.
“Our President is very serious in ensuring that the gains that have been made as far as peace and security are sustained,” she added.
Frasco said the DOT will enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of National Defense and Department of Interior and Local Government to ensure peace and security for tourists. – gb
