Tailwinds of opportunities emerge for Philippine tourism

Even though economic and geopolitical headwinds have slowed Philippine tourism, tailwinds of opportunities abound within the destination in the coming times.

Last year’s tourist arrivals of 5.95 million – of which 8.58 per cent are balikbayans or Filipinos permanently residing overseas – is 9.15 per cent more than 2023. It is, however, 23 per cent shy of the 7.7 million targeted in 2024 and 28 per cent short of the pre-pandemic (2019) 8.26 million arrivals.

Shortage of tourists from China, aggravated by tourism budgetary constraints and visa liberalisation delays, have caused the fall.

Analysts foresee full tourism recovery in 2026.

In this light, Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) executive vice president, Jaison…