DoT extols long weekend to boost tourism
‘We see these upcoming extended weekends as a timely opportunity, specifically advantageous in propelling our domestic tourism forward.’
Daily Tribune‘We see these upcoming extended weekends as a timely opportunity, specifically advantageous in propelling our domestic tourism forward.’
photograph courtesy of Department of Tourism Department of Tourism Secretary Maria Christina Frasco welcomes the six long weekends set for this year, saying that ‘these weekend holidays will result in tourism activity upticks, with a significant impact on the nation's economic growth trajectory.’
The Department of Tourism is extolling the six long weekends set this year saying that these long breaks provide a potential catalyst for a substantial boost to the country's domestic tourism sector.
In a statement on Friday, Tourism Secretary Maria Christina Garcia Frasco said the series of long weekend holidays will result in tourism activity upticks, with a significant impact on the nation's economic growth trajectory.
"Amidst the remarkable resurgence of our country's tourism industry, characterized by 5.45 million international visitor arrivals in 2023, there's an overwhelming sense of enthusiasm among travelers eager to make up for lost time, engaging in what has come to be known as 'revenge travel.' This fervor aligns with the steadfast strategies outlined in the Philippines' National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, aggressively pursued by the DOT," Frasco said.
Propelling domestic tourism forward
"We see these upcoming extended weekends as a timely opportunity, specifically advantageous in propelling our domestic tourism forward. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to President Marcos for recognizing the pivotal role these breaks play in not only revitalizing but also sustaining our vital tourism sector, which remains a cornerstone in propelling our country's economic resurgence by providing opportunities for livelihood and employment," the Tourism chief added.
Reflecting on statistical insights from 2022 released mid-2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority noted a staggering 102 million domestic trips, contributing an impressive P1.5 trillion to domestic tourism expenditure.
Among the overall P1.87 trillion in internal tourism expenditure, inclusive of spending by foreign visitors and Filipinos residing abroad, a substantial P1.5 trillion was directly attributed to domestic tourism spending.
This economic contribution stemmed from expenses by local visitors, encompassing both domestic trips and components of international travel occurring within the country's borders.
"In these upcoming extended weekends, I strongly encourage fellow Filipinos to seize the opportunity and embark on journeys that will create lasting memories with family and friends," said the DOT secretary.
