Manila: The Philippines remains committed to investing in tourism and improving the travel experience for tourists, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos said Friday. The First Lady made the assurance before the tourism stakeholders, including business leaders, at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Tourism Night at New World Makati Hotel.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mrs. Marcos emphasized the administration's recognition of the tourism sector as a key economic driver, contributing 8.9 percent to the country's 2024 Gross Domestic Product. She stated, 'So, this is why this administration is investing in better airports, stronger connectivity, and smoother travel experiences.' Acknowledging the role of the private sector, she added, 'As my husband always says, more tourists, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people. Needless to say, this cannot be done without the private sector. So, on behalf of my husband, thank you very much to all of you.'

The event saw the recognition of 16 MOPC Grand Tourism awardees, including Sonya's Garden, Rodeo Masbate±o, New World Hotel Makati, Shangri-La Hotel The Fort, Rajah Tours and Travel, Discovery World Corporation, Clark Development Corporation, Globe Telecom, GT Capital Holdings, Aboitiz Infracapital, Alliance Global Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, and MVP Group of Companies. Representatives and presidents of these firms, such as San Miguel Corporation chair and CEO Ramon S. Ang, Alliance Global Group CEO Kevin Tan, and Aboitiz Infracapital head of airports business Rafael Aboitiz, received the recognition.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted the strategic efforts of the administration in bolstering tourism and its significant role in employing nearly seven million Filipinos. She remarked, 'These have been the result of deliberate strategic interventions to ensure the long-term resilience of the industry.'

Mrs. Marcos was also honored with the MOPC Transformative Power Award for her contributions to the sector.