Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. promised to capitalize on the growing tourism sector to boost job generation in the Philippines. Speaking at his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, the Chief Executive said government agencies, including the Department of Tourism (DOT), are doubling down on efforts to ensure that the remaining jobless Filipinos are employed within his administration's term.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President emphasized that during the last three years of his administration, all efforts will be focused on providing comfort and opportunities to Filipinos. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), along with the DOT and related agencies, are tasked with finding opportunities for the remaining 4 percent of Filipinos who are unemployed.
In 2024, the tourism industry contributed 8.9 percent to the national economy and provided 6.75 million direct jobs to Filipinos. Domestic tourism expenditure in 2024 reached PHP3.16 trillion, surpassing the pre-pandemic level of PHP3.14 trillion in 2019. International tourism expenditures stood at PHP699 billion, up from PHP600 billion pre-pandemic levels, despite the country missing the 2024 arrival targets.
Among the sector's main employment generators are the hotels. Speaking at the Philippine Hotel Connect 2025 in Pasay City last week, hotel developers conveyed optimism about the prospects of hospitality and tourism in the country. Kevin Tan, president and CEO of Alliance Global Group, said Megaworld Corp. intends to invest 'almost USD2 billion' in expanding its integrated resort developments.
Tan recognized the effort the government is putting into the development of tourism infrastructure, including new airports, rails, and new roads. Filinvest Development Corp. senior vice president Francis Gotianun shared the optimism, highlighting the growth trajectory of the Philippine economy and human capital as painting a favorable picture for the industry.
Gotianun noted the developments in infrastructure, such as new airports and privatization efforts in regions like Bohol, Laguindingan, Mactan, and Clark. He emphasized the importance of human capital and the positive outlook for the industry.
