Travel in the Philippines

Tourism industry in the Philippines proves to be resilient

As one of Asia’s fastest-growing countries, the Philippine economy recorded strong and stable growth in 2017. The travel and tourism industry accounted for 21% of the economy, at a total of PHP3.

Tourism key players shift to online, prioritising mobile as a key area of growth

Digital continues to be a significant space where key players should have an established presence, as their potential customers are also commonly found online given the Philippines’ high internet penetration rate. Digital is not only about online sales in the country, but also an opportunity to maximise this tool in promoting services most commonly through official websites and on social media.

Regulations and infrastructure

A new tourism chief was appointed in May 2018 and under this new leadership several tourism policies have been reviewed and strengthened. Among these are the Tourism Act of 2009, the national policy for tourism as an engine for national development, and the status of the National Tourism Development Plan 2016-2022.

Best value for money products and services still reign among domestic travellers

Among hotels, the mid-priced segment is seen as the key driver in the coming years, as these hotels already infuse different elements, such as a “share-worthy” ambiance, and also exciting innovations such as an in-stay mode mobile app to attract travellers, especially budget and frequent travellers. Among airlines, AirAsia and Cebu Air continue to be the first choice among budget travellers.

Sustainable tourism will be the key theme

The closure of the tourist island Boracay paves the way for a re-examining of the direction of tourism in the Philippines to ensure establishments are on the same path towards strengthening the sustainability of tourism in the country. Moreover, the rise of eco-tourists, both inbound and domestic, is expected since travellers have become more informed about tourism and its implications for the environment and society.

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