Lace Up, Explore, Empower: "Takbo Para sa Turismo 2025" Invites You to Run for the Philippines!

Go out and enjoy the outdoors for a cause! The National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS) has partnered with the Department of Tourism (DOT), for "Takbo Para sa Turismo" – a unique fun run which celebrates the Philippines’ beauty, while highlighting tourism’s important contribution to the company’s economy. To be held in Manila's iconic Quirino Grandstand on April 26, 2025, “Takbo Para sa Turismo” isn't your average race, it’s a call to action, inviting runners of all backgrounds to become tourism ambassadors by supporting the event.

Choose your challenge: 3K, 5K, and 10K, all three categories provide a rewarding test of endurance while showcasing the city's iconic landmarks.

"Takbo Para sa Turismo is a vibrant movement, a testament to the power of tourism to uplift communities," says Ms. Florence Rivera, National President of NAITAS. "Takbo Para sa Turismo is more than just a race; it’s a movement that highlights the importance of tourism in our country’s economy. By joining this event, runners will not only invest in their health but also contribute to the growth and sustainability of local tourism.”

Philippines Emerges as Regional Leader at Routes Asia Awards 2025

Being recognized for sustained efforts to implement tourism development across the country particularly in making it accessible to more travelers, the Philippines claimed victory in two key categories at the esteemed Routes Asia Awards 2025, held in Perth, Australia.

Represented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippines was declared Destination of the Year, while low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific secured the Best Airline title for the second consecutive year. The winners were revealed during the Routes Asia 2025 Networking Evening on March 26, 2025.

The triumphs at Routes Asia 2025 build on the strong momentum generated by the DOT’s initiatives, including the flagship “Love the Philippines” campaign and its aggressive effort on the expansion of domestic and international routes. As of February 28, 2025, 46 new domestic and 47 international routes are in operation, improving access to destinations such as Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron, among others.

A Love Song for the Philippines

Asia’s Phoenix, Morissette is the powerful voice behind the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) new Love the Philippines song, which showcases the many reasons to fall in love with the country.

More than a travel destination, the Philippines is home to many beautiful things worth discovering. Food, festivals, traditions, and the people all add to the connections that are developed and strengthened when travelers explore and experience what makes the Philippines beautiful and unique. 

DOT highlights farm tourism’s transformative potential at 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth through the promotion of farm tourism at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC), held Tuesday (Feb. 25) at the KCC Mall in General Santos City, South Cotabato.

The three-day conference, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) in partnership with the DOT, brought together local and international experts, policymakers, farmers, and tourism stakeholders. The event aimed to highlight General Santos City’s potential as a leading destination for sustainable and innovative farm tourism practices. 

Korean-Speaking Agents join DOT's tourist hotline

Beginning in February, tourists can access support from Korean-speaking agents through the Department of Tourism's (DOT) expanded Tourist Assistance Call Center (TACC).

The DOT made the announcement on Saturday (Feb 1) on the expansion of the tourist hotline to provide Korean-speaking support, reflecting the Department's commitment to enhancing service for travelers from South Korea, the country’s largest source of inbound tourists.

Inquiring travelers can now receive direct assistance from a dedicated Korean-speaking agent available Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Philippine Standard Time). 

“As South Korea continues to be our top inbound market, this initiative ensures that Korean travelers can easily access assistance, allowing them to fully enjoy the warmth, hospitality, and attractions that make the Philippines a  destination to love,” stated Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “In alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a digitally empowered government, the DOT is dedicated to improving its platforms to deliver accessible, efficient, and world-class service to all tourists, both domestic and international.”

DOT, DSWD formalize partnership to aid disaster-affected tourism front liners

Tourism workers affected by natural calamities, disasters, and emergencies can now avail of financial and training assistance from the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). 

This, after Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian formally sealed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the Bayanihan sa Bukas na may Pag-asa sa Turismo (BBMT) program on Thursday (Jan. 23). Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Diana Rose Cajipe were also present and served as witnesses. 

Philippines to Host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

Johor Bahru, Malaysia – In a significant milestone for Philippine tourism, The Philippines represented by Secretary of Tourism Christina Garcia Frasco formally accepted the chairmanship of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 during a ceremonial handover held at the Johor International Convention Center on January 20, 2025. The symbolic gavel was handed  over  to Secretary Frasco by  Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture  marking The  Philippines' commitment to host this prestigious event.  

The ATF is set to include the highly anticipated ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting,  which will convene in the  province of Cebu in January 2026. 

DOT’s Philippine Experience Program now on KLOOK

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Klook Philippines on Wednesday (Jan. 15) formally signed a partnership that would make travel experience in the country more accessible for all, highlighting curated tour packages of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), a flagship tourism program that was developed and launched under the Marcos Administration.

With the unveiling of the latest collaboration between the DOT and one of Asia’s leading platforms for experiences and travel services comes a pioneering roster of PEP tours on the platform offering tours across the country. It also aims to accelerate the digitalization of Philippine tourism.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Rizal’s Hometown

Aside from being the proud birthplace of the Philippines’ National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, Calamba, a vibrant city in the heart of Laguna province is also known as the “Spring Resort Capital of the Philippines” due to the multitude of resorts that can be found there. Highly accessible and with so much to offer, Calamba is just one of the many destinations the Department of Tourism (DOT) aims to highlight as it explores more tourism projects in Laguna.

“Steeped in history and culture, the province of Laguna is brimming with tourism opportunities that will benefit locals and guests alike. The birthplace of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, the location of the beautiful Mount Makiling and the Pagsanjan Gorge National Park, there’s so much to see and experience here. Calamba’s historical significance makes it a must-see destination for all tourists who want to learn more about Philippine history. I am keen to see younger generations to also come and visit as it is highly important for our future generations to stay connected with our roots, which is why traveling to these places has so much more meaning. We hope that more tourists will add Calamba, and other tourist destinations in Laguna to their itinerary so they can discover more reasons to love the Philippines.

Inspired By Love, DOT Unveils Murals Featuring Breathtaking Sites, Rich Biodiversity

Driven by the passion to let future generations witness the beauty of the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled a series of murals that featured not only breathtaking tourist sites across the country but also its rich natural wonders.

From July to October 2024, DOT’s regional offices led their respective celebrations of “Love Inspired: The Philippines, a Canvas of Biodiversity” in 16 locations, all popular tourist destinations.

The events, also called Love Biodiversity Day 2024, highlighted the launch of murals made by local artists and activities that raised the awareness of tourism stakeholders and local communities about taking care of the environment.

LOVE DIVING: DOT launches Philippine Dive Experience in Anilao, Batangas

The maiden Philippine Dive Experience was formally inaugurated with the symbolic Banging of Air Tanks, led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco alongside esteemed members of the diplomatic corps in Anilao, Mabini, Batangas on Thursday (November 28) to reinforce the Philippines’ position as a premier global destination for diving and marine biodiversity exploration.

The tourism chief was joined by high-ranking diplomats including South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Lee Sang Hwa, Bangladesh Ambassador to the Philippines H.E F.M Borhan Uddin, Indian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Harsh Kumar Jain, Lao-PDR Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Sonexay Vannaxay, Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Malik Melvin, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Catherine McIntosh, Sri Lanka Ambassador to the Philippines H.E Chanaka Talpahewa, Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Tull Traisorat, Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Lai Binh, as well as diplomatic and consular corps from Cambodia, China, France, Indonesia, and the United States of America.

DOT’s Immersive Cube Experience Showcases the Philippines’ Tourist Spots Like an Artwork

Like a visually appealing artwork, art enthusiasts and collectors marvel at the natural and man-made wonders of the Philippines through the “Immersive Cube Experience”— an innovative attraction that brought the country’s beauty to life in an art setting.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the Immersive Cube Experience during the ManilArt 2024, one of the country’s longest-running visual arts fairs, held at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig City last October 9, 2024. This event bridged the world of tourism and art, attracting both art aficionados and curious onlookers.

The photo and video booth enabled visitors to witness the Philippines’s world-renowned tourist destinations through five LED screens seamlessly arranged to create a 3D-like environment. The cube’s interior featured three walls, a ceiling, and a floor— swathed in blue, reminiscent of the Philippines’ crystal-clear waters. The vibrant Love the Philippines campaign was prominently displayed setting the tone for the celebration of the country’s natural and cultural riches.

DOT, TPB to lead Philippine Delegation to World Travel Market 2024 London

With the goal of showcasing the Philippines' diverse tourism offerings and solidifying its position as a premier global destination, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines will lead the largest Philippine delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 since the pandemic. The WTM 2024 will be held from November 5 to 7, 2024, at ExCeL, London.

The WTM is one of the leading global business-to-business events for the travel industry, bringing together tourism professionals, government ministers, and international media to showcase innovations in travel and tourism. Founded in 1980, the event serves as a vital platform for nations to build business connections and strengthen their global presence.

"We see the World Travel Market London as a vital platform to present the Philippines to a global audience, showcasing the distinctive qualities that set our country apart—from our award-winning destinations and vibrant culture to our rich gastronomy, world-class hospitality facilities, and the renowned warmth of the Filipino people. With our largest delegation of tour operators, hotels, and resorts since the pandemic, the DOT and TPB Philippines are strategically positioned to strengthen international partnerships and solidify the Philippines as a premier destination in the global tourism market, reaffirming our commitment to transforming the country into a tourism powerhouse in Asia, as envisioned by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” said DOT Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

LOVE LUXURY: DOT reveals top-tier hotels, resorts recommended by Michelin Guide

When it comes to spending a lot – we mean a whole lot – for a relaxing vacation, local and foreign travelers can look to the Philippines for a top-tier yet worthwhile getaway.

A reliable guide for tourists looking for high-quality restaurants and hotels is the iconic Michelin Guide, which has been rating mostly restaurants worldwide for over a century. According to information from its website (https://guide.michelin.com/en/about-us), “the guide now rates over 30,000 establishments in over 30 territories across three continents.”

The world-famous guide has featured on its website six accommodation establishments in the Philippines. These include three luxury hotels located in Metro Manila and three luxury island resorts scattered throughout the country’s major island groups, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Frasco returns to Sulu, leads groundbreaking of Tourist Rest Area

A promise fulfilled, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the groundbreaking of a Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Patikul, Province of Sulu on Wednesday (Sept. 18).

“I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to return, to fulfill a promise, the promise that under the Administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.—under the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas—no one will be left behind in the development of our country,” the Tourism Chief said.

Philippines successfully hosts World Travel Awards 2024, bags eight awards

The Philippines has once again demonstrated its status as one of Asia’s premier tourism destinations by clinching a total of eight recognitions at the 31st World Travel Awards (WTA). This is the first time the country hosted the prestigious travel and tourism awards gala ceremony through the combined efforts of the Department of Tourism and its attached agency, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

During the Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2024 at the City of Dreams held on Tuesday (Sep. 3), the Philippines was honored as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year since 2019, as it bagged the titles of Asia’s Leading Beach Destination and Asia’s Leading Island Destination.

Some of the country’s top destinations also took center stage at this year’s WTA, with the historic Walled City of Intramuros recognized as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, while Boracay nailed the title of Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination.

Iloilo's first Tourist Rest Area to further boost Western Visayas tourism

Tubungan, Iloilo–The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday (Aug. 23), led the groundbreaking ceremony and memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing of the Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in the Municipality of Tubungan, Iloilo.

Situated in Brgy. Igpaho, the TRA in Tubungan is the first to be constructed in the province of Iloilo and the Western Visayas region.

In her address during the MOA signing program, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco underscored the importance of basic infrastructure in the development of towns and the nation, as she had seen first hand as a former Mayor.

Another First: Philippines to Host the World Travel Awards in September

The Philippines is solidifying its position as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination by hosting, for the first time, the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony. The red-carpet event organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) will be held on 03 September 2024 at the City of Dreams Manila.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her enthusiasm, “This not only marks a historical tourism milestone for our country under the Marcos administration, but also serves as a testament to the Philippines' growing prominence and readiness to host high-caliber international events. We are glad that esteemed global organizations, like the World Travel Awards, are recognizing our capacity to deliver world-class hospitality, superior event management, and unparalleled tourism experiences,” adding that the gala is also an avenue to network with various tourism stakeholders in the region.

DOT Chief proposes 24/7 tourist courts in the Philippines

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has proposed the establishment of a new flagship project, the 24/7 tourist courts, to aid in the swift resolution of cases where tourists are involved.

According to the secretary, she proposed the matter during the recent sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang, where the President agreed that the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), will work alongside the DOT to investigate and prosecute crimes related to tourists. 

DOT Presents “Escape: Stories from the Road” Podcast

The Department of Tourism (DOT) presents its first podcast, “Escape: Stories from the Road,” showcasing the best destinations in the Philippines through stories from different personalities.

Escape: Stories from the Road

This five-episode podumentary, a combination of podcast and documentary, infuses an element of storytelling, veering away from the usual question-and-answer formats of podcasts. Through these stories, the DOT hopes to reach out to various audience and inspire them to participate in meaningful tourism through unique experiences and local interactions.

One of the special guests, National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, shared stories about Baguio—his home and a UNESCO Creative City. Photo courtesy of Kidlat De Guia.