The Department of Tourism (DoT) has renewed ties with two of the country’s tourism stalwarts — the Philippine IATA Agents Travel Association (PIATA) and the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), stating that public- private collaborations are key to the tourism sector’s growth.

During the post-yearend gathering of PIATA over the weekend, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in overcoming beyond-control issues that challenge the Philippine tourism industry.

“Tourism is not a solitary endeavor. It is a whole-of-nation approach that requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-private sector intervention. And that is exactly the perspective that we have tried to apply in the Department of Tourism. And so, I assure you that we are just as fueled as we were from day one to champion your causes,” Secretary Frasco told PIATA members.

An active partner of the DoT, PIATA has been instrumental in facilitating travel-related services, including the issuance of tickets, travel tours, accommodations, and promotion of various travel deals for both domestic and international destinations.

The DoT has since worked closely with PIATA member-companies to address their fiscal and operations- related concerns, ensuring that tourism services in the country remain sustainable and competitive.

Commitment to PTAA

In a separate event, Secretary Frasco also reinforced its commitment to close collaboration with the private sector, as aired during the 1st General Membership Meeting and Induction of Newly Elected Officers and Trustees of PTAA at the Manila Hotel.

Secretary Frasco, in her address, underscored the importance of sustained government–private sector partnership in addressing industry concerns and advancing Philippine tourism, citing PTAA as an enduring and steadfast partner of the Department.

“The Department of Tourism values our partnerships with the tourism industry. I have said this from the very beginning that it is such a blessing to lead an industry where the private sector is so unceasing in championing this industry. We appreciate all the work that you’ve (PTAA) done, and we’re here to help all of you to see this through to the Philippines’ emergence in Asia,” Secretary Frasco said.

The Tourism Chief highlighted the Department’s efforts to elevate the tax-related concerns of travel agencies and tour operators, citing ongoing coordination with the Department of Finance on Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 5-2024 and its impact on the sector.

Secretary Frasco likewise acknowledged the efforts of both the DoT and the PTAA Foundation in extending assistance to tourism stakeholders and communities affected by calamities, as part of their continued collaboration.

The gathering also featured the oath-taking of PTAA’s newly elected officers and trustees for 2026.