Manila: The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the latest economic forecast of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, the WTTC, in its 2025 Economic Impact Research (EIR), projected the tourism sector to inject PHP5.9 trillion into the national economy this year, representing a 13.5 percent increase from 2019. This forecasted figure is marked as 'a new all-time high' and is expected to contribute more than one-fifth or 21 percent of the national gross domestic product (GDP), reinforcing tourism's role as a vital pillar of the Philippine economy.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco expressed that the projections affirm the DOT's determination to boost the Philippines as a leading tourism destination in Asia under the Marcos administration. She highlighted the success of strategic initiatives aimed at leveraging the country's culture, diversifying tourism products, introducing innovations, and focusing on sustainability and quality in tourism, which have resulted in record-breaking tourism spending and employment.
The WTTC report further indicates that the Philippines is on a path to surpass its record performance in 2024, with projections suggesting even greater accomplishments by 2025. The sector is expected to support 11.7 million livelihoods this year, accounting for nearly 23.8 percent of national employment. Additionally, international visitor spending is projected to reach PHP709.2 billion, while domestic visitor spending is anticipated to hit PHP4.1 trillion.
WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson praised the Philippines as a prime example of how a clear, long-term vision for Travel and Tourism can yield substantial economic benefits and opportunities. She emphasized the country's extraordinary appeal and its focused policies on tourism growth, supported by the energy of its people and private sector.
The WTTC noted the industry's potential to transform the national economy as the Philippines continues to enhance air connectivity, invest in infrastructure, and prioritize destination resilience.
