The Philippines has recorded a record-breaking P760.50 billion in inbound tourism expenditures in 2024, surpassing the pre-pandemic figure of P600.01 billion in 2019 by 26.75 percent.
This is according to Department of Tourism Central Luzon Regional Director Richard Daenos.
“The country has welcomed approximately 5,949,350 international tourists in 2024,” Daenos said during Pampanga Press Club’s News at Hues at Park Inn by Raddison Clark on Tuesday, May 20.
Daenos added that region has been instrumental in the national tourism growth with its proximity to Metro Manila and key infrastructure like Clark International Airport.
DOT Secretary Christina Frasco earlier outlined a seven-point agenda in its National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028 to transform the Philippines into a tourism powerhouse.
The strategic goals include Improvement of Tourism Infrastructure and Accessibility; Cohesive and Comprehensive Digitalization and Connectivity; Enhancement of the Overall Tourist Experience; Equalization of Tourism Product Development and Promotion; Diversification of the Tourism Portfolio through Multidimensional Tourism; Maximization of Domestic and International Tourism; and Strengthening Tourism Governance through Close Collaborations with National and Local Stakeholders.
Daenos reiterated the region's commitment to sustainable tourism practices and community involvement to attract more tourists in Central Luzon.
As part of its commitment, Daenos said the regional tourism office has conducted a total of 83 trainings benefiting a total of 4,020 tourism workers.
These trainings aim to prepare and equip tourism workers skills to accommodate tourists coming in the region.