Tourists passing through the Philippines can now maximize long layovers and access world-class healthcare services with the launch of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) first-ever Transit Tours and Medical Tourism Concierge at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 Arrival Area.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, led the launch of the programs on Tuesday, December 16, describing the initiatives as part of the administration’s push to modernize and enhance the country’s tourism experience.

The President described the programs as “experiential tourism,” underscoring the government’s goal of positioning the Philippines as a leading tourism destination in Asia.

“DOT introduces the Transit Tour, an initiative created for international passengers with long layovers. Instead of spending hours confined to the terminal, travelers are now given a chance to enjoy a curated glimpse of the Philippines. With the launch of the Medical Tourism Concierge area, we take another important step toward people-centered service. It is designed to receive and assist patients with both efficiency and with compassion,” Marcos said.

“All these improvements do benefit travelers, including families with children and the elderly, and of course, these changes were designed with our OFWs in mind,” he added, citing improved coordination among government agencies as key to the initiative’s rollout.

Tourism Secretary Frasco said the programs align with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028, which aims to diversify tourism offerings through gateway-based initiatives.

“These initiatives reflect a stakeholder-driven approach to governance built through collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and tourism frontliners,” Frasco said.

“Under President Marcos and the vision of Bagong Pilipinas, we continue to modernize our gateways to work better for people and compete confidently on the global stage. When we elevate the visitor experience, we create livelihood for Filipinos and present the Philippines with confidence to the world,” she added.

Curated layover experiences

Under the Transit Tours program, eligible travelers from visa-free countries with a minimum layover of eight hours may join curated tours showcasing key attractions in Metro Manila.

Initially, two itineraries are being offered at USD 50 per person, inclusive of entrance fees and insurance coverage. These include a morning tour of Intramuros and the National Museum in Manila, and an afternoon tour featuring entertainment and shopping destinations at Okada and Solaire in Pasay and Paranaque City.

Participants will be transported via a 49-seater, air-conditioned bus accompanied by a DOT-accredited tour guide and a police officer. Bookings may be made through the LovePH mobile app, the Philippine Airlines website, or via walk-in registration at Transit Tour Concierge desks at NAIA Terminal 3.

Medical tourism support

The Medical Tourism Concierge, meanwhile, is designed to provide end-to-end assistance to medical travelers, from arrival to departure. The service connects patients with DOT-accredited medical, wellness, and tourism partners, offering post-treatment recovery options such as spa resorts, healing retreats, and leisure activities.

Partner institutions include The Medical City, St. Luke’s Medical Center, Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, Belo Medical Group, Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center, Novodental, Urban Smiles, and members of the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines.

Under the program, the International Patient Concierge at the chosen medical facility prepares all necessary medical documents and travel requirements. Upon arrival, patients will pass through standard immigration, quarantine, and customs procedures before proceeding to the Medical Tourism Concierge area, where assigned personnel will assist them while awaiting transport. Private rooms are also available for VIP patients.