Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reported the resurgence of the Philippine tourism industry as it records P344 billion in foreign visitor receipts in just the first nine months of 2023.

"As of 3 October, the Philippines has received over 4 million international arrivals into the Philippines, constituting over 84.7 percent of our target for this year. Thus far, the revenues contributed by tourism to our economy as of 30 September numbers P344 billion," Frasco said.

"After the pandemic, the landscape variably changed, which necessitated taking on a developmental approach toward tourism, as well as a recognition of the necessity for innovation in corresponding to global trends. Our President has long recognized the immense potential of tourism as a socio-economic tool for development."

According to Frasco, DoT is optimistic about implementing more projects that "would further elevate the quality of Philippine tourism."

The DoT's projects in the pipeline include the continuation of tourism roads and infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways convergence, enhancement of tourist experience through the Travel Philippines application, development of its Disaster Risk Reduction Management operations manual, the establishment of tourist emergency centers and more tourist rest areas, introduction of programs to support the creative industries, and further develop of tourism products, such as farm, halal, health and wellness, MICE, pilgrimage and heritage, sports (including surfing and golf, tourism), and tourism scholarships.