Phl tourism to create 11.7M jobs

The tourism industry could generate 11.7 million livelihoods this year amid the government's continuous diversification of tourism products and services, a report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said.

The Department of Tourism (DoT) on Wednesday shared the WTTC's outlook which will represent 23.8 percent of the country's total employment.

WTTC said it expects the Philippines to grow tourist arrivals this year, leading to a 13.5 percent expansion of the tourism industry from the level in 2019.

The growth will be backed by likely revenues amounting to P5.9 trillion, which could comprise more than 21 percent of national gross domestic product.

"The Philippines is a standout example of how Travel & Tourism, when supported by a clear, long-term vision, can deliver real economic impact and long-term opportunity," said WTTC President and Chief Executive Officer Julia Simpson.

Under the leadership of DoT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the country's trained hospitality workers increased to over 303,637 individuals as of May.

The DoT also launched the first Philippine Dive Experience program where 25 state ambassadors learned about the marine landscape in Anilao, Batangas and the country's environmental conservation efforts.

The government agency reported revenues from scuba diving have nearly doubled at P73 billion compared to P37 billion in 2022.

DoT also introduced the first Philippine Golf Tourism Summit and secured the Philippines' hosting of the United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in June last year.

In February this year, renowned global restaurant reviewer the Michelin Guide announced it started exploring the country for world-class food spots amid the booming local restaurant industry.

"Our collaborations with our public and private sector stakeholders have been instrumental in these wins for the Philippines, as has been the hard work of millions in the tourism sector in our destinations and communities all over the country," Frasco said.

DoT recently reported over 300,000 visitors explored the Philippines' pavilion at Expo Osaka 2025, making it one of the crowd favorites. The travel event will run until 13 October.