THE Department of Tourism (DOT) wants more Indian travelers to come to the Philippines for leisure and entertainment.

India, with a population of more than one billion and a growing middle class, is considered an emerging tourist market for the country. As of now, most Indians who travel do so for business.

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The DOT believes the Philippines can offer more “variety” to the Indians—most of whom are seasoned
travelers—compared to other countries in Asia. The tourism department pointed out that the Philippines has several destinations for shopping, island-hopping and culinary activities, among others.

Glen Agustin, DOT team head for India, told reporters during the recent Philippine International Tourism Fair in Cebu that the tourism department wants to attract more Indians and their families to come and spend on recreational activities in the Philippines.

The DOT eyes Mice (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) participants who want to get involve in leisure activities during and after their business agenda, he said.

However, Anoop Ka-nuga of India-based tour operator Bathija Travels Pvt. Ltd. lamented the lack of direct flights between India and the Philippines.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano said the DOT’s efforts to convince Philippines Airlines (PAL) to fly to India is “getting there.” The DOT is hoping that the flag carrier will use one of its new aircraft that will be delivered in the third quarter of this year to serve India.

He said PAL assigned a general service agent in India last year. He described this as a “good step” in getting additional direct flights between the two countries this year.

Agustin advised tourism establishments targeting the Indian market to work with tour operators and be included in tour packages as the Indians have dietary requirements and want to be regularly updated on new products.

He also suggested to Philippine tour operators to find counterparts in India.

The DOT has lined up a series of media promotions that have been “effective” in drawing in more Indians to the Philippines.

The DOT notes that Indians travelers stay for an average of seven days, spending time in Manila before going to other tourist destinations in the country like Cebu, Bohol and Boracay.