Philippines

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Cebu MICE Alliance launched Cebu’s inaugural MICE Guidebook on the sidelides of ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) TRAVEX. The guidebook features key information on Cebu’s venues, accommodations, destination experiences, service providers, and support infrastructure

The Tourism Secretary dismissed the rumours alleging that she has been replaced as the Department of Tourism (DOT) Chief, noting that she believes “the matter has been addressed clearly by the Palace”

The ASEAN Foreign Ministers met in the Philippines, discussing complex agenda including Myanmar’s conflict, negotiations on an ASEAN‑China Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, and the Thai-Cambodia border dispute

The Philippine economy recorded a 4.4% growth, below the Jun projection of 5.5%-6.5% and the lowest non-pandemic numbers since 2011. The Economic Planning Secretary said that the low growth were attributed to “weather and climate-related disruptions”, as well as the flood corruption probe scandal

The 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 has officially begun in Cebu. The forum opened with a series of high-level meetings involving stakeholders from National Tourism Organisations (NTOs). ATF TRAVEX 2026 also provides a platform for B2B networking

The Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) is strengthening its marketing not just for top markets – such as South Korea, the US, and Japan – but also on reviving potentially big markets in Asia, including India and China. Arrivals from India is expected to grow significantly since the introduction of the visa-free scheme in Jun 2025 and the launch of Air India’s direct Delhi-Manila flight in Oct. TPB is also strengthening marketing in China, as the Philippines resumes e-Visa services for Chinese nationals. TPB’s Chief Operating Officer said that Iloilo is gaining traction in the US market due to its UNESCO recognition as Creative City of Gastronomy and World Heritage Site

Tourism activities in Tingloy, Batangas, will be temporarily suspended from 29 Jan due to a shortage of passenger ferry. Tingloy is accessible only by sea via passenger vessels operated exclusively by Montenegro Shipping Lines Inc., of which only 3 of its 60-pax capacity ships are currently operational

President Marcos Jr. called for sustainable and inclusive tourism at the opening of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Cebu. He highlighted the tourism sector as a “driver of opportunity for economies and communities”. He noted that a key milestone of ATF is the completion and adoption of the ASEAN Tourism Sector Plan 2026-2030, which outlines a clear and unified course for advancing sustainable and inclusive tourism across the region. He added that the Philippines’ ASEAN chairship is guided by five strategy called “SAIL ASEAN” or SAIL-A”, standing for Strengthening Trade and Investment Linkages; Accelerating Digital Transformation; Integrating ASEAN's MSME Development Agenda; Leveraging the Creative Economy and Innovation; and Advancing Sustainable and Inclusive Economies

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) intensifying efforts on its integrated complex model for convention centres. SMHCC’s Senior Vice President for Operations said that Department of Tourism (DOT) data showed MICE visitors spend over $573 USD per day, araound 5X more than leisure travellers, noting that with integrated complex, it all “stays within the ecosystem, multiplying benefits across hospitality, retail, and lifestyle components”. SMHCC’s upcoming openings include Park Inn by Radisson SM City Dasmariñas in Q4 2027, SM Olongapo Central (Q1 2028) and Laoag (Q3 2028), a major dual-brand Radisson and Park Inn development at SM Seaside City (Q3 2028), SM City Sta. Rosa (Q1 2029), and a capacity expansion for Park Inn by Radisson Davao (Q2 2029)

A lawmaker from Cebu City has filed House Bill No. 7367, which seeks to abolish the mandatory travel tax on Filipino nationals traveling overseas. Under current regulations, Filipino travellers are required to pay travel taxes from 300-2,700 PHP per departure from the Philippines, depending on flight class and eligibility for reduced rates

Cebu City implements hybrid and modular learning on 28-29 Jan, suspending all in-person classes, for the ASEAN Summit 2026. The measure applies for all public and private schools at every level

Tourism officials of ASEAN countries met with the officials of the National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) of China, Japan, and South Korea on 27 Jan ahead of the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu. The Tourism Undersecretary highlighted that “the partnership between and among ASEAN, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea is not just a collaboration, it is a vital alliance that highlights the profound role of tourism as a catalyst for unity and mutual prosperity”

The Transportation Secretary announced that the entire passenger fleet of Aleson Shipping Company has been grounded, pending investigation, following the sinking of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 off southwestern Mindanao on 26 Jan, which left at least 18 dead and 10 missing. The ship was carrying 344 passengers and crew. The Philippines’ maritime regulator and coast guard would conduct a safety audit over the next 10 days

Tourism officials from ASEAN and Russia held the 16th Meeting of the ASEAN-Russia Tourism Consultation on the sidelines of the 2026 ASEAN Meetings in Cebu. The Philippine Tourism Undersecretary said that ASEAN is aiming to build an “inclusive” and “resilient” tourism sector. She said that ASEAN is keen to pursue cooperation with Russia that boosts traveller confidence and safety, supports workforce development and skills exchange, and improves connectivity, along with further collaboration through digital marketing and data-sharing on travel and best practices

The Foreign Ministry said that it had made “firm representations” to China’s embassy and its ambassador in Manila over the “escalation of public exchanges” in regards to the South China Sea dispute. The ministry also called for “sober, professional and respectful exchanges in the public sphere”

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor and the city Technical Working Committee conducted an ocular inspection on 26 Jan ahead of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 Opening Ceremony and related meetings set for 26-30 Jan

The Department of Tourism Region XI (DOT-XI) recorded 2,897,168 overnight travellers from Q1-Q3 2025, +11% YoY. The increase is attributed to strong tourism performance, improved air connectivity, sustained domestic travel demand, effective promotion, and continued public-private collaboration. DOT-XI Regional Director noted that domestic tourism continued to be the “main driver” in the region, which provided stability and growth

The Philippines saw 6,484,060 visitor arrivals in 2025, +0.76% YoY. The number includes 5,940,975 foreign visitors (+0.27% YoY) and 543,085 overseas Filipinos (+6.41% YoY). Dec 2025 saw 625,484, +20.2% YoY. The top market in 2025 was South Korea at 1,346,301 (-18.49% YoY), USA, Japan, Australia, Canada and China (237,101, -14.27% YoY). The DOT will focus on the US, South Korea, Canada, China, India and the Middle East in 2026

The Philippines expects a “big boost” from being the chair of ASEAN in 2026, according to DOT Secretary. They aim to “fully recover” the South Korean market in 2026, and also noted a “very targeted and intensified campaign” for India, with +21% YoY growth in arrivals

The DOT Secretary highlighted the tourism industry as a great sector for investment, with every peso invested in tourism generating a 450% estimated return. In 2025, international tourism receipts generated 694 billion PHP

The Philippines, as ASEAN chair, will push for a 2026 completion of the long-delayed Code of Conduct with China on the South China Sea, insisting that it should explicitly reference the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

The Presidential Palace is coordinating with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Foreign Affairs, following difficulty in securing Japanese visa application slots. The Palace Press Office urged those who are waiting for Japanese visas to travel domestically instead

The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) has said that they are lobbying the Department of Tourism and the Department of Finance to help travel businesses lower their taxes, which would allow them to offer lower cost packages to domestic consumers. The DOT also acknowledged that costs for domestic hotels and airfares can be expensive, but reported there were 134 million domestic trips in 2025. The PTAA Travel Tour Expo will have 800 booths from 6-8 Feb

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is developing the SMX Seaside Cebu and SMXCITE (SMX Centre for International Trade and Exhibitions), which are set to open in Q4 2026 and in 2027, respectively

The Philippines recorded 6,484,060 arrivals in 2025, including 5,940,975 foreigners and 543,085 overseas Filipinos. The Department of Tourism’s (DOT) preliminary data shows that the tourism receipts totalled 694 billion PHP. The total arrivals in 2025 are still below pre-pandemic levels. DOT said the Philippines recorded several milestones in 2025, including the launch of the Michelin Guide and hosting of the first Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific. In 2025, 19 new international flights were launched connecting Manila, Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, and Kalibo to major cities in Asia, Oceania, North America, and Eastern Europe. The Philippines also recorded 136 cruise ships with 56,040 passengers and 15,071 crew members. The DOT also hosted the SALAAM 2025 Expo, for muslim-friendly tourism, and launched the Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments recognition, which is recognised nationwide as of 15 Dec 2025

Bohol Governor signed the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 into law, to manage tourism growth and protect the province’s environment, cultural heritage, and local communities. The law will strengthen the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office and reorganise the Provincial Tourism Council into the Provincial Tourism Development Council to formulate a Tourism Price Guide for activities and authorise tourism revenue collection. 50% of the collection will fund tourism development and sustainability program, and 20% will be allocated to barangays for other services. The code also mandates a 6-year Provincial Tourism Development Plan aligned with national tourism policies and UNESCO Geopark principles

Cebu City Government is preparing its heritage sites for the delegates attending the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) at the end of Jan. The heritage sites that will be visited on the tour include Patria de Cebu, Heritage of Cebu Monument in Barangay Parian, Fort San Pedro, National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu, and Casa Gorordo. At least 150 delegates are expected to attend the forum

The Cebu Provincial Tourism Office (CPTO) warned tourists and consumers to be careful against fake pages on social media posing as legitimate hotels and resorts. CPTO received complaints of fraudulent pages on Facebook impersonating Cebu-based hotels and resorts

Hotel101 Global has signed several agreements to develop the 766-room Hotel101 Melbourne in Australia, set to open by 2029. The property is expected to bring in around 323.6 million AUD in sales revenue

The Sinulog Grand Parade 2026 recorded 3.3 million visitors as of 5pm on 18 Jan. The Cebu City Police Office is expecting a total of 4 million visitors throughout the day

Cebu City is expecting 4-5 million devotees and spectators for the Sinulog Grand Parade 2026 on 18 Jan

Cebu is expected to welcome 5,000 delegates from the ASEAN region for the high-level meetings. The Tourism Secretary said hosting the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) will help with the Cebu tourism industry, after the province experienced earthquakes and typhoons in 2025. The ATF will be held in Cebu City from 28-30 Jan. The Tourism Promotions Board confirmed 600 international buyers will take part in the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX)

3,961 passengers and drivers were stranded at 14 ports nationwide following Tropical Storm Ada on 16 Jan. Bicol region recorded the highest number of stranded passengers, at 1,816 passengers, with 620 rolling cargo and 9 vessels in Mobo, Pilar, and Castilla ports

The Philippines announced visa-free entry for Chinese nationals for tourism and business purposes for up to 2 weeks, effective from 16 Jun. The policy is only valid for those entering through the Manila and Cebu airports, and no extensions will be allowed. The policy will be in effect for 1 year and will be reviewed before expiring

The 14-day visa-free policy for Chinese visitors received mixed feedback from Chinese internet users. Some said the Philippines has limited appeal compared with Thailand or Vietnam, due more to high entry barriers than a lack of attractions. However, the visa-free policy could help boost the country’s popularity among Chinese tourists. A Vice Dean of the ASEAN College at Guangxi Minzu University said these concerns are valid, citing tensions in the South China Sea and the Philippine government’s stance toward China. Data from Flight Manager shows that flight routes between China and the Philippines remain below 40% of pre-pandemic levels. In Dec 2025, only 766 round-trip flights were operated, representing a 61% decline vs pre-pandemic levels. China Southern Airlines remains the leading carrier, but overall flights to the Philippines are still down 40% vs pre-pandemic levels

The Henley Global Mobility Report shows the Philippines passport’s visa-free score dropped to 64 from 67, since Pakistan, Mauritania, and Somalia introduced the eVisa system in 2025. However, the passport’s global ranking increased to 73 from 75. The Henley Openness Index ranks the Philippines at 16 globally, since the Philippines offer entry to 81.34% of the countries and regions

Cebu City was placed under a state of calamity following the Binaliw landfill collapse. 13 people were reported dead, and the search and retrieval operations are underway as 25 people remain missing and 18 are injured. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Central Visayas (DENR-7) issued a cease-and-desist order against the private landfill. The company has been ordered to clarify the incident and submit a compliance plan within 90 days

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) is promoting Sogod Bay, Southern Leyte, as a top global dive destination at the Salon de la Plongee 2026 international exhibition from 8-11 Jan 2026. Stakeholders of the diving industry from Eastern Visayas and representatives from Sogod Bay Scuba Resort and Peter’s Dive Resort took part in the exhibition

AC Hotels by Marriott has been launched in Manila with 160 rooms, located in GLAS Tower, Ortigas district

K-pop group BTS will perform in Manila on 14 Mar 2027 as part of their world tour

The Michelin Guide has listed the Philippines among the must-visit places for food lovers in 2026, listing of 108 Manila and Cebu establishments in its selection

San Nicolas, Pengasinan recorded 186,628 tourist arrivals in 2025, +106% YoY. The top destination within the town is Malico, 97,932 visitors, Agpay Eco Park with 49,058 visitors, and Puyao Picnic Ground with 39,638

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will impose a 25% final withholding tax (FWT) on income earned by foreign-service providers and a 12% final withholding value-added tax (VAT) even if the service is performed outside the Philippines. BIR Revenue Memorandum Circular clarified that “cross-border services” will be taxed in the Philippines if the listed services are carried out in a foreign country, but the results are used, applied, consumed, or executed in the Philippines. Within the tourism sector, the nonresident foreign corporations (NRFCs) include online booking platforms, international tour operators, and foreign partners providing outsourced services to Philippine companies, such as travel and reservations technologies. The Tourism Secretary said the tourism stakeholders have expressed concerns over subjecting cross-border services to both withholding tax and VAT. They also worried that the additional costs could be passed to the customers, which could increase the room rates and affect the competitiveness of the hotels in the Philippines. The Department of Tourism will form a technical working group with BIR to address the tourism industry’s concerns

The Bureau of Immigration has reported 15.6 million passenger arrivals into the Philippines in 2025, with 6.7 million of those foreign travellers

The Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) recorded 5.69 million passengers in Dec 2025, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr). DOTr said the passenger traffic during the Christmas and New Year period reached 3,431,341, and total passengers in 2025 reached 60,281,330 vs 51,557,965 in 2024. EDSA Busway recorded 66,669,287 passengers in 2025, vs 63,022,953 in 2024

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched a brief city tour program for eligible transiting passengers from visa-free countries or those holding valid Philippine visas through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport with at least an 8-hour layover. The program will begin on 16 Jan, and the tour will cost $50 USD for a 4-hour guided experience, including a tour bus, entrance fees, tour guide, travel insurance, a police officer onboard, and light refreshments

The Hundred Islands National Park, Alaminos City, Pangasinan, reported that the park received 377,968 visitors in 2025, including 366,228 domestic and 11,740 international visitors. Apr and May are the peak season with 65,000 arrivals. The park generated a total of 43.8 million in income, -2.1% YoY. Alaminos City will open the Sky Garden Project, constructed at a cost of 249.8 million

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) highlighted the 5.24 million tourist arrivals from Jan-Nov 2025, -2.2% YoY and -37% vs pre-pandemic levels, and called on the government to address the challenges. FFCCCII proposed to the government to introduce a competitive visa regime similar to other ASEAN countries; modernise the main gateways and improve inter-island travel infrastructures; and champion the Philippines experience by offering training to the tourism industry and highlighting the Philippines’ attractions

The procession of “Black Nazarene”, Traslaction, lasted 30 hours and 50 minutes, the longest recorded, with 7,337,700 devotees

The procession of “Black Nazarene”, a procession of a centuries-old Jesus statue on 9 Jan, recorded 439,000 devotees

Camiguin recorded 397,818 visitors in 2025, +37.86% YoY, including 376,322 domestic visitors (+39.3% YoY) and 21,496 foreign tourists (+15.7% YoY). The Governor of Camiguin said the government faced limitations in collecting data since the court has issued a preliminary injunction on the province’s Smart Tourism Ordinance, preventing the use of the Smart Travel or QR code system in 2025. Due to this suspension, the province couldn’t collect accurate tourism data in 2025 compared to the previous system. The government couldn’t identify the nationality of the visitors, even though over 654,000 people were recorded at its ports and airports in 2025. Camiguin is on track to record at least 30% growth in tourist arrivals from 2025 to 2028. Camiguin will take part in the Feria Internacional de Turismo in Madrid, from 21-25 Jan

Despite the Mayon Volcano eruptions, the Albay Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office (PTCAO) said the province is safe and open for tourists. PTCAO has designated several areas across Legazpi City, Daraga, Camalig, Ligao City, Sto. Domingo, Tiwi, Tabaco City, Malilipot, and Guinobatan as safe viewing spots for visitors to watch Mayon. However, all tourist sited within the 6km Permanent Danger Zone will be closes, including the Green Lava Trail, Black Lava Trail, Mayon Skyline, and Mayon Volcano Natural Park

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the visa policy towards China remains the same, denying an alleged DFA memo that said the Philippines offers 14-day visa-free access to Chinese tourists. The Philippines welcomed 248,339 Chinese tourists from Jan-Nov 2025, -16.6% YoY

The Philippine peso (PHP) dropped to 59.355 PHP against USD on 7 Jan 2026, its weakest since 9 Dec 2025

The Philippines will host the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit from 8-9 May in Cebu City and the 49th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit from 10-12 Nov at the Philippine International Convention Centre (PICC), Manila. The 49th ASEAN Summit will invite leaders from 11 dialogue partners. However, Myanmar’s Acting President will not be invited. The Philippines will host 650 ASEAN-related meetings throughout 2026, including the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat and Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, which will be held in Cebu from 28-29 Jan, as well as a special meeting of foreign ministers to mark the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation on 24 Jul

The Presidential Palace denied that the Philippine Airlines (PAL) President will replace the current Tourism Secretary. There were allegations that the Department of Tourism commissioned Philippine Topics to feature a story about her, but the DOT denied and said Philippine Topics is a private publication and not the DOT’s official magazine

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) reported the Philippines secured 522.29 million PHP in sales leads last Nov 2025 from a business mission in South Korea. The delegation from the Philippines comprised 40 sellers, and took part in roadshows in Busan, Daejeon, and Seoul, meeting with 204 Korean agents and corporate buyers. A total of 792 business meetings were facilitated during the roadshow. From Jan-Nov 2025, the Philippines welcomed 1.134 million South Koreans, -21% YoY

The 45th Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) Track Championships will be held in the Philippines after 31 years at the new Tagaytay City CT Velodrome from 25-31 Mar, with 12 countries and over 200 athletes confirming their attendance

The Department of Health (DOH) advised Filipinos travelling outbound to take precautions such as vaccinations following reports of “Super Flu” cases. The DOH has identified 17 flu cases after reviewing surveillance data in 2025

Department of Tourism (DOT) topped the list of WeChat articles with the most views in China in 2025. DOT’s post on the DRT Diving Show in Beijing held from 8-10 Aug recorded 99,000 views

Occupancy rate of hotels and accommodation across Cebu may reach 80% to 100% in Jan 2026, due to an expected surge in visitors. DOT-7 expects 300,000 visitors in Jan alone

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has proposed to construct a permanent terminal for international cruises along Manila Bay in 2026, with a cost of 5 billion PHP. The project will be developed by PPA and run by private businesses

The Department of Tourism said Cebu remains a preferred destination for local tourists, with 118,745 tourists visiting Boracay, Western Visayas, from 15-28 Dec 2025. Cebu City welcomed 102,124 visitors, while Panglao Island in Bohol recorded 62,240 tourists. From 15-31 Dec 2025; Baguio City welcomed 117,137 visitors Bicol, Camarines Sur, recorded 92,000 tourists Albay recorded 45,000 visitors La Union, 47,338 visitors Ilocos Sur, 32,232 visitors Nueva Vizcaya, 10,012 visitors El Nido in Palawan, 40,000 tourists Coron, 17,850 Puerto Galera, 13,204 Siargao Island, 32,742 Sarangani Province, 26,191 Bukidnon, 9,488 Camiguin Island, 6,558

Khiri Travel has received the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification across all destinations where it operates – Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Sri Lanka

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor reported the economic growth may slow to 4.6% in 2025, a drop from 2024’s 5.7% expansion and below the government’s 5.5%-6.5% target. He said BSP will not cut interest rates. Inflation reached 1.8% in Dec, its fastest in 9 months, due to increase in food and clothing prices

Lake Holon’s trek site in South Cotabato will be closed for 2 months from 3 Jan to protect the biodiversity of the lake, preserve water quality, and for the lake’s long-term sustainability

Philippine Ports Authority recorded 6.1 million passengers from 15 Dec 2025 to 5 Jan 2026, +22% YoY. The majority of passengers were recorded in Panay/Guimaras, Batangas, Mindoro, Bohol and Negros Oriental/Siquijor. On 4 Jan, the Philippine Coast Guard recorded 250,505 outbound passengers and 197,291 inbound passengers in all ports

Cebu will host the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) from 28-31 Jan, under the theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together”. Alongside ATF 2026, there will be the Tourism Ministers’ meetings and the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX). TRAVEX will be held in Mactan Expo Centre. The Central Visayas’ DOT office has implemented Project Harana (Hosting Asean with Readiness, Agility, Nationalism, and Authenticity), aimed to prepare volunteers, tour guides, tourist drivers, students, faculty members, and event organiser fro ATF 2026

Cebu City is expecting to welcome 4-5 million visitors during the Fiesta Senor and Sinulog Grand Parade on 18 Jan. Nearly 7,000 security and emergency personnel will be deployed across key parts of the city

Palawan recorded 5.24 million visitors from Jan-Nov 2025, -2.16% YoY. The Department of Tourism has set a 6.7 million international visitors target for 2026, below the 8.3 million recorded in pre-pandemic

A Coast Guard team from Olango Island rescued a tourist boat carrying 61 Korean passengers and 14 Filipino crew members, which suffered engine failure near Barangay San Vicente amid bad weather on 4 Jan

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) announced 2 major international events that the Philippines will be hosting: the first Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games or SEA Plus YG in late 2027 and the Asian Beach Games or ABG in early 2028. The SEA Plus YG will include its members such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Timor Leste, and other countries in the Asian sub-region

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recorded 116,651 passengers, including 64,408 outbound and 52,243 inbound passengers on 2 Jan

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recorded 42,053 sea travellers, including 23,525 outbound and 18,528 inbound passengers on 1 Jan. PCG inspected 204 vessels and 512 motorised boats

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) will spend 1.5 billion to install 47 e-gates and 57 biometric devices in other international airports, after deployment in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. BI signed a contract with Amadeus for the expansion and upgrades of e-gates

Marriott International has added The Farm at San Benito, a 70-room wellness resort, as its first Autograph Collection property in the Philippines. There are over 340 independent hotels globally under Autograph Collection