Photo credit: DOT

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has reported a remarkable surge in the Philippines' tourism revenue, reaching P282.17 billion in the first half of 2024. This represents a robust 32.81 percent increase from the same period last year's P212.47 billion, underscoring the sector's resilience and growth despite global challenges.

"The significant increase in our tourism earnings to P282.17 billion in just the first half of 2024 is a testament to the relentless efforts of the Marcos administration in revitalizing our tourism sector," Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco stated.
In terms of visitor arrivals, the Philippines welcomed a total of 3,173,694 inbound tourists as of July 10, 2024, with 92.55 percent (2,937,293) being foreigners and the remaining 7.45 percent (236,401) overseas Filipinos.

South Korea maintained its position as the leading source of foreign visitors, contributing 824,798 arrivals, followed by the United States (522,667), China (199,939), Japan (188,805), and Australia (137,391). Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia rounded out the top ten markets.

The DOT remains optimistic about further enhancing tourism's economic impact. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the Philippines is poised for a record-breaking year, with the sector expected to contribute PHP5.4 trillion to the national economy in 2024, marking a 25 percent increase year-on-year.

"This growth is testament to the government’s efforts in enhancing tourism infrastructure, with efforts underway to upgrade regional airports to alleviate congestion at Manila's main airport and make travel more accessible," the WTTC highlighted in its report.

This forecasted growth underscores the Philippines' rising stature as a global travel destination, with both international and domestic visitor spending expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels, driving economic recovery and fostering widespread employment opportunities nationwide.