London: The Department of Tourism (DOT) called on foreign investors to take advantage of the Philippines' growing tourism opportunities. Speaking at a forum at the World Travel Market (WTM) London on Nov. 4, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco cited government reforms and fiscal incentives that make the country an attractive investment destination.
According to Philippines News Agency, tax holidays, enhanced deductions, and import exemptions for priority tourism projects are all covered under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE MORE) Law. Frasco highlighted that the Philippines is undergoing a transformative development agenda led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aimed at sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven growth. The CREATE MORE Act provides fiscal incentives promoting sustainability, green innovation, job creation, and equitable regional development.
Frasco emphasized the vital role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in accelerating tourism development, including airport modernization and tourism infrastructure improvements. She noted that the national government is investing in tourism programs such as community training, the establishment of rest areas, and the installation of hyperbaric chambers in major diving and coastal destinations.
At the launch of the Philippine Pavilion at the same event, Frasco stressed the importance of sustainability in tourism amid global economic challenges and climate-induced disasters. She underscored the relevance of sustainability, especially as the Philippines faces recurring natural calamities like typhoons and earthquakes.
Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. also attended the event, expressing optimism over the tourism sector's recovery and renewed global confidence in the Philippines. Locsin noted that UK arrivals grew by 5.36 percent in 2024, surpassing the overall 2.1 percent increase in UK outbound travel to Asia. He highlighted the 90.71 percent recovery rate as evidence of the resilience of the Philippine tourism industry.
The Philippine Pavilion at WTM 2025 showcased the country's diverse tourism offerings, including the beaches of Boracay and Palawan, the heritage sites of Cebu, Iloilo, and Vigan, highland escapes in Bukidnon and Benguet, world-class dive sites like Anilao and Tubbataha, and wellness sanctuaries in Bohol and Camiguin. The prestigious annual travel and trade event was attended by stakeholders and other foreign tourism ministers from around the world.
