The Philippines has reported that its tourism sector will achieve an all-time high revenue of nearly US$13 billion in 2024, marking a 126.75 percent improvement from pre-pandemic levels.
Income from domestic tourism expenditure is 9.04 percent higher than the total seen at the end of 2023.
Data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) shows that 2024 revenue is up 26.75 percent from 2019.
According to Tourism Secretary Cristina Frasco: “With these statistics, it is clear that the Philippine tourism industry is not only recovering but also developing and expanding, contributing significantly to the country's economic stability and growth. Over the past year, we have witnessed significant growth in tourism revenue, surpassing previous records.”
Vital to the national economy
Frasco noted that the numbers also translate into thousands of jobs created for Filipinos, increasing economic resilience and enabling families to thrive.”
He attributed this growth to the national government's pro-tourism policies that prioritize sustainable development of the Philippines' tourism assets.
Frasco said: “These policies focus on improving infrastructure, promoting heritage conservation and investing in skills development programs for our workforce. We believe that tourism growth should be inclusive and equitable, empowering local entrepreneurs and communities.”
And more time = more income
According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council, international tourists spend at least US$2,073 per capita.
From an average of nine nights in 2019, tourists are now staying an average of more than 11 nights in the country, with 70 percent being repeat visitors.
DOT officials also noted that continued collaboration with private sector stakeholders also achieved about 63.18 percent repeat visitors in 2024.