Philippines
Full implementation of e-visas for Indian travellers launched.
Latest monthly intl arrivals
471,835
Nov 2024
Recovery vs 2019
69%
Nov 2019: 684,063
YTD Intl Arrivals
5,350,857
Up to Nov 2024
Percent of 2024 Target
69%
of 7.7M target
Source: Intl arrivals - Department of Tourism. Page last updated: 13 Dec 2024.
Latest Travel Industry News
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13-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundResearch by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) shows climate change has intensified the recent storms in the Philippines. 6 storms were recorded in Oct-Nov, causing 170 casualties, displacing 1.4 million people, and causing severe damages to infrastructure, homes, and crops. Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London researcher said “The barrage of typhoons was supercharged by climate change”Source: straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/climate-change-supercharged-deadly-string-of-philippines-storms-study
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13-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Air Inc. forecasts its systemwide network growth to increase from 103% in Jan 2024 to 130% by Jan 2025. Passenger capacity will increase from 2.3 million seats in Jan 2024 to 2.9 million seats in Jan 2025. The increased capacity of Cebu Pacific is expected to be supported by 15,000 flights by Jan 2025, an increase from 12,000 flights at the start of 2024. The route network is expected to increase to 116 by Jan 2025, from 104 recorded in Jan 2024Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/13/cebu-pacific-systemwide-seats-capacity-to-increase/
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12-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Asian Development Bank said the policies of the new Trump administration may begin to impact the Philippines from 2027. ADB maintains its economic growth forecast for the Philippines at 6% in 2024 and 6.2% in 2025. ADB said the average inflation will be at 3.3% in 2024, lower than the initial 3.6% estimate, and 3.2% in 2025Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/12/adb-trump-policies-likely-to-impact-china-phl-in-2027/
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11-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Department of Tourism (DOT) suspended tourism activities such as trekking, swimming, farm site visits, and day tours in parts of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental provinces following the Kanlaon Volcano eruptionSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2014484/fwd-dot-suspends-tourist-activities-in-negros-areas-due-to-kanlaon-eruption
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11-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundMarriott Bonvoy announced the opening of the first AC Hotels in Manila in 2025Source: ttgasia.com/2024/12/11/marriott-bonvoy-unveils-top-hotel-openings-across-asia-pacific-in-2025/
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11-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines will participate in Routes Asia 2025 in Perth, Australia to showcase its growth plansSource: travelandtourworld.com/news/article/philippine-airlines-to-showcase-growth-plans-at-routes-asia-2025-in-perth/
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11-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationSunlight Air hosted its first Grand Travel Fest (GTF) in SM City Cebu offering promotions for travel dealsSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/610695/sunlight-air-holds-its-first-grand-travel-fest-cebu
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10-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippines hosted a photo exhibition in Ulaanbataar, titled “Explore and Love the Philippines” from 9-14 Dec. The host hopes this event will promote Philippines tourism among MongoliansSource: traveldailymedia.com/philippine-tourism-officials-encourage-mongolians-to-visit-their-country/
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10-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe World Bank said the Philippine economy is expected to grow slowly in 2024 due to a series of typhoons affecting the country, but should be more robust in 2025 and 2026. The GDP will expand by 5.9% in 2024, slightly less than the initial 6% outlook. World Bank said GDP will accelerate to 6.1% in 2025 and 6% in 2026Source: channelnewsasia.com/business/philippines-gdp-growth-hit-typhoons-outlook-robust-says-world-bank-4797951
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10-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundPH Resorts Group Holdings Inc signed an MoU with EEI Corp to finance and construct the Emerald Bay resort and casino project in Mactan, CebuSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/10/ph-resorts-eei-seal-deal-for-cebu-resort/
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10-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThousands of residents near Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental Provinces have been evacuated following volcanic eruptions. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Chair said this affects 87,000 residents. On 9 Dec, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued a notice to restrict flights near Mt. Kanlaon from the surface to 21,000 feet from 4.50pm of 9 Dec to 3.03pm of 10 DecSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2013956/thousands-evacuated-as-mt-kanlaon-erupts-anewhttps://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2013956/thousands-evacuated-as-mt-kanlaon-erupts-anew
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10-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationAir Canada will launch direct service between Vancouver (YVR) and Manila from Apr 2025. From Jan-Nov 2024, 195,549 Canadian tourists visited the Philippines and 119,809 Filipinos travelled to Canada. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) CEO said they will focus on fam tours in partnership with Canada’s Travello Travel Group. They aim to offer first-hand experience to Canadian agents on what the country can offer as a tourism and MICE destination. TPB will attend the annual International Tourism and Travel Show (ITTS) in Montreal, Canada in Nov 2025. In 2024 ITTS, the Philippines generated 662.22 million PHP in salesSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/10/new-air-canada-direct-flight-to-mnl-will-hike-tourists-from-n-america/
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10-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) increased its operational readiness, as an estimated 7%-10% increase in passengers is expected for the Christmas season. CAAP said in Dec 2023, 2.4 million passengers were recorded, an increase from the 2 million passengers it recorded in Dec 2022Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2014210/fwd-caap-expects-up-to-10-percent-more-passengers-over-christmas-2024
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9-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundGovernment Auditors ordered the Department of Tourism (DOT) to pay British Broadcasting Corp. (BBC) for unpaid balance advertising services in 2017. The Commission on Audit (COA) said DOT records from the 23 October 2017 resolution of its bids and awards committee (BAC) show the cost of BBC service will be $1.5 million or PHP equivalent for 2,163 advertising slots on BBC’s platforms. COA awarded $299,724 to BBC, less than the $600,000 claimed by BBCSource: rappler.com/philippines/coa-orders-department-tourism-pay-bbc-unpaid-ads-services/
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9-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe President approved the extension of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) for 6 years and introduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for non-residents. The RCEF will receive an annual budget of 30 billion PHP, an increase from the current 10 billion PHP. International tourists can claim rebates for purchases exceeding 3,000 PHP from accredited stores. This policy is expected to increase tourism spending by 29.8%, benefiting SME businessesSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2013715/marcos-oks-rcef-extension-vat-refund-for-foreign-tourists
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9-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Philippines recorded 7 million passengers YTD, surpassing 6.6 million recorded in 2023. In Dec 2024 alone, AirAsia is projected to fly 500,000 passengers, and an additional 250,000 in Jan 2025. AirAsia attributed this success to a 77% YoY increase in fleet size. The airline also offered 11 double-digit promotional offers and P1SO deals for passengers. AirAsia has expanded to 34 AirAsia Travel and Service Centers in 2024, from 29 in 2023. AirAsia MOVE recorded 19.3 million total online visitsSource: newsroom.airasia.com/news/2024/12/9/airasia-philippines-to-close-2024-with-strong-steady-passenger-growth-improved-fleet-size-and-meaningful-partnerships#gsc.tab=0
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8-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundSouth Korean tourists to the Philippines in 2025 are expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels of 2 million despite the ongoing political turmoil in South Korea. From Jan-Nov 2024, the Philippines recorded 1,435,571 South Koreans, +10.45% YoY and making up 29.18% of total tourist arrivalsSource: politiko.com.ph/2024/12/08/south-korean-visitors-to-ph-expected-to-surpass-2m-in-2025/politiko-lokal/
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8-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationEmirates reported 3,166 first-class passengers from Jan-Oct 2024, and expects to exceed the 3,609 passengers it recorded in 2023. Emirates Philippines’ country manager said there is an increase in premium travel demand in the Philippines after the pandemic. Emirates offers first-class suite travel from ManilaSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/610627/rising-demand-more-filipinos-embrace-first-class-travel
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7-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines will add 74 additional round trip domestic flights between Manila and Davao, Bacolod, Cagayan, Iloilo, Tacloban, Busuanga (Coron), Caticlan (Boracay), and Legazpi (Daraga), as well as between Cebu and Caticlan, Bacolod, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Legazpi, Siargao, Puerto Princesa, Tacloban and Busuanga over 15 Dec-12 Jan. It is also adding services to Melbourne, Korea and deploying wide body aircraft on its high demand routes including Tokyo Narita, Bangkok and SingaporeSource: philstar.com/business/2024/12/07/2405503/pal-adds-routes-frequencies-holidays
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7-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Israeli Embassy in Manila hosted the “L’Chaim! Discover Israeli Wine” event on 4 Dec for wine enthusiasts, hoteliers, and distributors, featuring 15 of Israel’s top wineries. The embassy is aiming to promote exploring Israel's wineries as part of their travel plansSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1239495
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7-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the number of unemployed people dropped to 1.97 million in Oct 2024, from 2.09 million in Oct 2023 and 2.38 million in Jul 2024. The number of underemployed Filipinos increased to 6.08 million in Oct 2024 from 5.6 million in Oct 2023 and 5.78 million in Jul 2024Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/07/underemployment-dims-better-jobs-numbers/
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5-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe private sector welcomed the e-visa rollout for Indian tourists, expressing hope that they could replace the loss of the Chinese tourism market. However, there could be delays in reaching pre-pandemic levels of tourist arrival since there are no direct flights between the Philippines and India. The Department of Foreign Affairs said as of 31 Oct, 7,259 Indian applicants have received e-visas. The Tourism Congress of the Philippines President said India has huge potential for the Philippines, especially in MICE, leisure travelling, and weddings since they have a bigger population and the fastest-growing middle class. He said Crimson Report & Spa Mactan have hosted Indian weddings but he said the cost for Indians to travel to the Philippines is high as there are no direct flights. Travellite Travel and Tours' General Manager said there are not enough establishments that serve Indian cuisines. Cebu Pacific said there are no immediate plans to offer direct flights to India but they will continue to study the market Air India expressed interest to fly from Mumbai or New Delhi to ManilaSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/05/e-visas-open-doors-wide-for-indians-but-where-are-the-direct-flights/
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5-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundPhilippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said inflation was recorded at 2.5% in Nov 2024, up from 2.3% in Oct 2024 but slower than the 4.1% recorded in Nov 2023. PSA said the increase in inflations is due to increase of food and non-alcoholic beverages prices to 3.4% in Nov 2024 vs 2.9% in Oct 2024. Transport recorded 1.2% in Oct 2024 from 2.1% in Sep 2024. The national average inflation rate is at 3.2% from Jan-Nov 2024 periodSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/12/05/inflation-picks-up-to-2-5-in-november/
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5-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe demand for luxury tourism from Filipinos is increasing and driving exclusive offerings like expedition cruises, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and luxury train journeys. CITTI Elite CEO said their recent partnerships and products, such as the Four Seasons Yachts, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Ponant, and Scenic Luxury Cruises. He said wealthy individuals are willing to spend up to $100,000 USD for exclusive and luxury travel. Rajah Travel Corp said they are offering luxury travels to unique destinations in Canada, Switzerland, Amazon, and IndiaSource: ttgasia.com/2024/12/05/filipino-travellers-seek-exclusive-and-unique-luxury-experiences/
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5-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the Israeli Tourism Minister in Makati City and signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to cooperate in tourism. Israeli Minister said direct flights between both countries could welcome 100,000 tourists annually to PhilippinesSource: traveldailynews.asia/meetings-events/the-philippines-and-israel-strengthen-tourism-ties-with-bilateral-cooperation/
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5-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) has listed the Apo Reef, Turtle Islands, and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes among ASEAN’s 5 newest heritage parksSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/610144/phs-apo-reef-2-others-named-newest-asean-heritage-parks
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5-Dec-2024 🌏 outboundAgoda’s 2025 Travel Trend Survey shows; 34% of tourists plan to travel with family in 2025, followed by 23% as couples, and 19% as solo travellers. 58% of Indonesian travellers would like to go on a trip with family 75% of respondents said relaxation is their main motivation for travel, followed by 39% to visit family and friends, and 34% for cultural exploration. 87% of Singaporeans said relaxation is the main reason for travel 80% of travellers plan to use travel apps and 12% are interested in VR tours. 9 out 10 Indian tourists use travel apps when booking a trip 65% of tourists plan to spend $250 SGD per night on accommodation 87% of tourists are planning for the same number of trips or more compared to 2024 with 52% planning to travel internationally 28% of respondents expected to travel for business trips 1 in 25 respondents are expected to work remotely in 2025. 1 in 14 Philippines respondents are expected to work while travelling 84% of travellers are expected to travel to new destinations in 2025 71% said they get travel inspiration from personal interests and hobbies, 56% through discounted deals, 33% get recommendations from friends and family, and 20% get their inspiration from social media. 29% of Malaysians and Indonesians get inspiration from Instagram 13% are expected to travel to theme parks in 2025. 20% of Indonesians are expected to visit amusement parksSource: ttrweekly.com/site/2024/12/family-time-drives-2025-travel-plans/
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5-Dec-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines resumed the Clark-Siargao route from 3 Dec with 3 flights per week using 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8-400 Next Generation aircraftSource: traveldailymedia.com/philippine-airlines-resumes-clark-siargao-route/
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4-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Department of Tourism said from Jan-Nov 2024, the Philippines welcomed 5,350,857 tourists, +9.5% YoY, including 4,918,418 international and 432,439 oversea Filipino tourists. However, the Philippines is expected to not achieve its 7.7 million visitor arrivals target in 2024. In Nov 2024 alone, the Philippines welcomed 471,835 tourists, including 433,130 international tourists. The top arrivals were from; - South Korea, 119,019 - the US, 75,511 - Japan, 30,717 - China ranked 6th in Nov with 17,303 tourists and 4th place from Jan-Nov 2024 with combined 297,604 touristsSource: asgam.com/2024/12/04/philippine-visitor-arrivals-top-5-million-through-november-but-2024-target-out-of-reach/
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4-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) launched the first Philippine Dive Experience on 27 Nov to improve the Philippines' position as a top global destination for diving and marine biodiversity. The Tourism Secretary said the country was recognised as the World’s Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards. The Philippine Dive Experience tourism circuit was launched in Anilao, where the divers experienced a community-driven artificial reef called LOVE Reef, created through conservation efforts. The second day of the event featured a coastal clean-up at Anilao Pier to highlight DoT’s commitment to sustainable tourismSource: ttgasia.com/2024/12/04/philippines-elevates-global-diving-appeal-with-inaugural-philippine-dive-experience/
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3-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) are working together to create awareness and appreciation of science and technology in Leyte Province through educational tourism. Officials from both agencies, the Eastern Visayas Association of Tour Guides, and representatives of travel and tour agencies in Leyte participated in a 2-day site assessment on 29-30 Nov for science tourism sitesSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2011865/science-tourism-pushed-in-leyte-province
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2-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Embassy in China is hosting a 3-week Filipino food festival at Beijing’s Grand Hyatt Hotel which will be held until 21 Dec. The Philippines Ambassador said the event is to showcase Philippine food and culture to their partners in ChinaSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/609522/ph-embassy-in-beijing-showcases-noche-buena-food-festival
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1-Dec-2024 🛬 inboundThailand's Ambassador to the Philippines said the country is open to collaborating with the Philippines to boost the diving destinations under the “two countries, one destination” concept. He said tourists from Europe and the US travel a long way for diving activities and this policy would be suitable for them. He said this could apply to cruise tourism as well to cover both Thailand and the Philippines. Philippines Tourism Secretary said they are willing to form partnership with ASEAN to promote the region’s diving offeringsSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1239061
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1-Dec-2024 🌏 outboundHong Kong welcomed 920,000 Filipino tourists from Jan-Oct 2024, 127% of pre-pandemic levels. Tourists from Southeast Asia usually stayed for 3.4 nights in Hong Kong and spent about $7,100 HKD per person ($912 USD)Source: scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3288893/hong-kong-welcomes-million-visitors-philippines-year-surpassing-2018-record
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30-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippines has fully implemented its new e-Visa system in India, and aims to capture India’s growing outbound market. Nangia NXT, an Indian consulting firm said India’s outbound travel market is expected to reach $55.39 billion USD by 2034 and the number of Indian tourists travelling overseas is projected to increase to 50 million by 2030Source: globalnation.inquirer.net/256994/dot-wants-share-of-55-b-indian-tourist-market
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30-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said the inflation in Nov 2024 will be within the 2.2%-3% range. Lower rice prices managed to offset the inflation despite higher prices for vegetables, fish, and meat due to unfavourable weather conditions, higher electricity rates, and petroleum prices. The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Secretary also said the inflation is expected to remain within BSP’s targetSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/30/november-inflation-likely-slowed-on-rice-price/
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30-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) published a report about on-time performance (OTP) in Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The report found that - 70% of the delays are due to airlines or ground handlers - 45% of delays due to consequential delays (due to delays of the first flights) - 13% due to aircraft change - 12% due to aircraft rotation - 20% delays are attributed to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and/or the Air Traffic Control (ATC) - 10% due to issues with the airport such as ramp congestion, pushback clearance or awaiting gate availability The system-wide OTP from - 1 Jan-13 Sep 2024, was 71.09% - 14 Sep-19 Nov, 78.9% - 1-14 Nov, the system-wide OTP was recorded at 81.95% with the arrival OTP at 87.76% and the departure OTP at 75.53% NNIC is committed to improving NAIA by spending 170 billion PHP. The government is expected to gain 1 trillion PHP in revenues from the NAIA public-private partnership (PPP) over the 25-year concession period, this includes 82.16% annual revenue share to the government. NNIC plans to increase the annual passenger capacity to 62 million from 43 million, and air traffic movements to 48 per hour from 42Source: qa.philstar.com/business/2024/11/30/2403893/improved-otp-naia
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29-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundAgoda said the Philippines is experiencing interest from South Korea, the US, Japan, Australia, and Singapore for Dec holidays based on data from Aug 2024Source: malaya.com.ph/weekly-features/travel-tourism/ph-japan-and-singapore-among-top-dec-destinations/
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29-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundA fire incident in Sta. Cruz, Manila left 1,500 people homeless. Bureau of Fire Protection said at least 250 houses were destroyed and 500 families were displacedSource: philstar.com/nation/2024/11/29/2403732/fire-leaves-1500-people-homeless-manila
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29-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationMegawide Construction Corp. said they won a contract from San Miguel Corp. (SMC) to construct a new passenger terminal for the Godofredo P. Ramos International Airport (Caticlan Airport), Malays, Aklan. The CEO of Megawide Construction didn’t reveal the value of the terminal. The airport is owned and operated by Trans Aire Development Holdings Corp (TADHC), SMC Infrastructure’s subsidiary. The groundbreaking is scheduled for Dec 2024 and is expected to be completed within 3 yearsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/29/megawide-bags-san-miguel-contract-for-caticlan-project/
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28-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Secretary said gastronomy is embedded in the Philippines’ National Tourism Development Plan. She said that with programs like the Philippine Experience Caravan, visitors and tourism stakeholders can be introduced to the local cuisine and food products of each region. The gastronomy tourism sector of the country is expected to reach $21 billion USD in value by 2032, from $5.4 billion value in 2022, with a compounded annual growth rate of 14.7%Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/28/phl-seeks-more-middle-east-tourists-adds-bahrain-cebu-flights/
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28-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationAboitiz Infracapital Inc. (AIC) said the Bohol-Panglao International Airport upgrade project will begin by 2025 after receiving notice of award (NOA) from the Transportation Department (DOTR) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). The CEO of AIC said the concession agreement is expected to be signed by the end of 2024. The project is valued at 4.53 billion PHP. The passenger terminal will be expanded and the airside will be modernised under the plan to increase passenger capacity to 2.5 million passengers per annum (mppa) from the current 2 mppaSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/28/aic-bohol-airport-upgrade-to-start-in-2025/
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28-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Philippines is looking to increase flights with Bahrain, especially to Cebu, to increase tourist arrival from the Middle East. The Tourism Secretary made the request to Bahrain's Tourism Minister on the sidelines of the 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism. Both of them discussed potential joint promotions, and the exchange of tourism professionals, to improve MICE, tourism investments, tourism and hospitality education, and cultural heritage. Philippines Airline currently offers non-stop flight service between Bahrain-Manila through a code-sharing agreement with Gulf Air. From Jan-Oct 2024, the Philippines recorded 5,528 tourists from Bahrain, +16% YoY. Tourist arrivals from the Middle East in 2023 recorded 80,851, +9.7% of pre-pandemic levelsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/28/phl-seeks-more-middle-east-tourists-adds-bahrain-cebu-flights/
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27-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines (PAL) clarified its COO’s statement that PAL’s 2024 Financial Year performance will be lower than 2023 as a “cautious statement”, indicating a reasonable expectation” the airline may not reach the 2023 Financial Year result of 21 billion PHP of net income. PAL has only recorded 8 billion PHP in profit from Jan-Sep 2024Source: philstar.com/business/stock-commentary/2024/11/27/2403304/pal-rebrands-coos-remarks-lower-fy25-profitability-cautious-statement
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26-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific becomes the first Philippine company to display on Burj Khalifa, Dubai with the theme of “Fly to Happy, Fly to the Philippines”Source: traveldailymedia.com/cebu-pacific-is-now-the-first-philippine-company-to-take-over-the-burj-khalifa/
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26-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Department of Tourism is committed to transforming the country as a global gastronomy hub. The Tourism Secretary said Bacolod will host the inaugural Terra Madre Asia Pacific in 2025. During the 2024 Terra Madre Visayas event she said gastronomic tourism is a key component of cultural tourism and is a priority segment. Bacolod has been recognised as the Slow Food International Hub for Asia PacificSource: traveldailymedia.com/philippine-department-of-tourism-committed-to-countrys-transformation-as-global-gastronomy-hub/
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25-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundSenate passed a bill to declare Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the PhilippinesSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/25/gma-beams-as-bill-declaring-pampanga-phls-culinary-capital-hurdles-second-reading/
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25-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippines Department of Tourism has broken ground for the first eco-friendly Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Brgy. Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique on 21 Nov. The Tourism Secretary said this is a significant step in improving the Philippines' global tourism appeal while focusing on environmental conservation. This is the 2nd TRA in the Western Visayas Region and the 16th TRA in the Philippines. The construction and funding will be handled by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the local government unit (LGU) will manage day-to-day operations. The TRA has been designed with eco-friendly elements such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient designs. During the ceremony, the Tourism Secretary distributed kits to 43 tour guides, they received practical tools and 50,000 PHP worth of personal accident insuranceSource: travelandtourworld.com/news/article/philippines-department-of-tourism-launches-san-remigios-first-eco-luxury-tourist-rest-area-pioneering-sustainable-travel-in-antique/
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24-Nov-2024 🌏 outboundFrom Jan-Sep 2024, Taiwan welcomed 338,386 tourists from the Philippines, +38.77% YoY, the largest Southeast Asian source market to the countrySource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/607839/taiwan-tourism-rebounds-with-filipinos-among-the-top-visitors
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22-Nov-2024 🌏 outboundAgoda published a list of countries which showed interest in travelling to the US for the Thanksgiving holiday. Agoda report shows a 15% YoY increase in accommodation searches for the US by Asian tourists. South Korea leads the list, followed by Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and SingaporeSource: traveldailymedia.com/agoda-asian-travellers-flock-to-the-united-states-for-thanksgiving-2024/
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21-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundCebu will host the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards (PSTA) on 22 Nov at the Axis Bar of the NUSTAR Casino and Resort. 19 awardees across sports associations, events, destinations, venues, local governments, events organisers, and private companies who created an impact in the sports tourism industry in 2023 will be recognisedSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/607458/6th-sports-tourism-awards-happening-in-cebu
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21-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe National Disaster Agency said the death toll from Super Typhoon Man-Yi increased to 12. The combined death toll from 6 major storms in a month has reached 175, and the storms have displaced thousands from their homes, and caused damage to crops and livestockSource: channelnewsasia.com/asia/philippines-super-typhoon-man-yi-death-toll-flooding-recovery-period-4761736
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21-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe PHP dropped against the USD, recording its lowest in 25 months to 58.91 PHP against the USD. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor said the BSP has made “small amounts” of interventions in the foreign exchange market to prevent a sharp depreciation of the currencySource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/21/phl-peso-falls-to-25-month-low-against-the-greenback/
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21-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundEmirates Airlines launched a retail store concept in Manila, the first in East Asia, at the Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City. Visitors can explore Emirates’ products and services at the store. Emirate operates 28 weekly flights to 3 airports in the PhilippinesSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/21/emirates-phl-retail-store-is-first-in-east-asia/
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21-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationBased on the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) data, air passenger volume from Jan-Sep 2024 increased by 21%. The overall passenger volume from Jan-Sep 2024 recorded 44.09 million, +21.2%Source: bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/11/21/636336/emirates-sees-high-demand-for-premium-travel-from-phl-market/
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19-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundSome senators have voiced support for allocating a higher budget for the Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) to boost tourism growth in the PhilippinesSource: traveldailynews.asia/destinations/philippines-senators-push-for-increased-dot-budget-to-boost-tourism-growth/
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19-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundBoracay Foundation, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, MICE Alliance – Boracay, Boracay Island Travel Agency and Tour Operators Association (BITATOA), Malay Tour Guide Association (MALTOA), and Korean Residents Organization of Boracay (KROB) have proposed solutions to address infrastructure and regulatory issues of Boracay to revitalise the tourism industry in a joint resolution. In pre-pandemic, 75%-85% of total arrivals were foreigners but from Jan-Oct 2024, Boracay welcomed 145,021 visitors, 83% domestic and only 17% international tourists. The group proposed to allocate funds to renovate Caticlan Jetty Port and to install PWD-friendly facilities. They called for granting international airport status to Caticlan Airport. They are asking to standardise and streamline the business permit processSource: ttgasia.com/2024/11/19/boracay-stakeholders-outline-plans-to-revitalise-tourism-address-key-challenges/
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18-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine music event market is estimated to hit $83.6 million in 2024 and grow by 3.9% annually to $98.5 million by 2028 based on Statista’s data. A majority of the global revenue from music tourism this year will come from the US at $17 billion. Locally, the target market is about 2.9 million Filipinos, or a user penetration rate of 2.5%Source: bworldonline.com/top-stories/2024/11/18/635426/music-tourism-unlocks-more-opportunities-for-philippine-travel-sector/
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18-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe President said the Man-yi super typhoon impact was “not as bad” as the government feared. The country has begun cleaning and repair work after the 6th storm to hit the country in 1 month. 8 people were reported dead due to the typhoon. Catanduanes Province Official said power outage could last for months due to toppled electricity polesSource: straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-cleans-up-after-sixth-major-storm-in-weeks
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18-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundSuper Typhoon Pepito weakened after hitting land in Panganiban, Catanduanes Province. Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) warned it still can cause considerable damage and urged to take precautionary measuresSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2006400/pepito-weakens-but-impact-still-massive
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18-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundNational Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said 2 people were injured and 852,000 people nationwide were affected by Super Typhoon Pepito. The data shows 111,658 of the 852,475 affected individuals were displaced, 75,581 are in evacuation centres, and 36,077 took shelter elsewhere. The damage to the agriculture industry is estimated to reach 855,326 PHP affecting 52 farmers. The government distributed 45 million PHP worth of assistanceSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2006053/pepito-injures-2-persons-affects-over-852000-across-ph-so-far-ndrrmc
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18-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationNew NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) plans to resolve all issues to demolish the abandoned Philippine Village Hotel near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by early 2025 to allow for the construction of a new terminal. NNIC General Manager said currently the airport has a capacity of 35 million and by the end of 2024, passenger numbers are expected to hit 50 million. NNIC Chairman said the new terminal will add 36 passenger boarding bridges and accommodate 22 million more passengers annually, with the construction expected to take 3-4 years to complete. The NNIC is also working on renovating and upgrading Terminal 4, with a cost of 200 million PHP. It is expected to reopen in Feb 2025Source: bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/11/18/635454/nnic-working-to-clear-way-for-new-terminal-with-hotel-demolition-in-2025/
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18-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationThousands of people were affected by flight delays, cancelled sea trips, and road closures due to Tropical Cyclones Nika, Ofel, and Pepito. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said operations in Virac, Naga, and Legazpi airports have been resumed but flight cancellations are still being reported in some areas. - Tuguegarao Airport reported 6 flight cancellations affecting 712 passengers - Cauayan Airport reported 4 flight cancellations affecting 350 passengers - Surigao Airport reported 4 flight cancellations - Dumaguete Airport and Davao International Airport 2 flights were cancelled each - Bohol-Panglao International Airport 1 flight - Zamboanga International Airport 4 flights were cancelled affecting 269Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/18/3-storms-force-flight-delays/
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17-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundSuper Typhoon Man-yi (local name: Pepito) hit the Philippines on 17 Nov, with 1.2 million fleeing their homes with warnings of a “life-threatening” impact. The typhoon first hit Catanduanes, where no deaths have been reported but large-scale infrastructure damage, and then Luzon, the main islandSource: channelnewsasia.com/asia/super-typhoon-man-yi-batters-philippines-most-populous-island-4752541
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17-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported due to landslides in Northern Luzon, seven national road sections remain closed. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said sea travel is affected as well. Routes under the Port Management Offices of Batangas and Mindoro have been cancelledSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/18/3-storms-force-flight-delays/
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17-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), together with 29 Filipino exhibitors, generated 722 million PHP in sales deals, +378.34% YoY, from ITB Asia which was held at the Sands Expo Convention Centre from 23-25 OctSource: business.inquirer.net/490680/ph-firms-earn-p722-m-deals-from-itb-asia
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17-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued a warning that areas including Metro Manila are at risk of storm surge and flood due to Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi)Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/2006009/pagasa-updates-storm-surge-warning-areas-along-manila-bay-warned
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16-Nov-2024 🛬 inboundSuper Typhoon Man-yi made landfall in Catanduanes Province on 16 Nov with a maximum wind speed of 195kmh. The National Weather Forecast Agency said this typhoon will cause a "potentially catastrophic and life-threatening" impact with waves as high as 14m. 650,000 people evacuated from their homes. In the last 5 storms, 163 people died and thousands lost their homes, crops, and livestockSource: channelnewsasia.com/asia/philippines-super-typhoon-man-yi-thousands-flee-4751601
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16-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationNew Naia Infra Corp. (NNIC) said they are committed to a 50% improvement in passenger convenience compared to 2023 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to offer relief to passengers to the Christmas seasonSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/11/16/nnic-vows-50-passenger-convenience-enhancement-for-christmas-travel-rush/
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15-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific reported a revenue of 23.1 billion PHP, -1% QoQ in Q3 2024 despite recording 6 million passengers, +14% QoQ in Q3 2024. The increase in passengers was attributed to lower average fares which recorded a 15% YoY drop. The airline recorded 2.4 billion PHP operating profits in Q3 2024, a drop from 2.6 billion profit in Q3 2023. From Jan-Sep 2024, Cebu Pacific recorded an 8% drop in its operating profits to 5.7 billion PHP with 74.5 billion PHP in revenues, +11%. Cebu Pacific added 10 aircraft and 10 spare engines from Jan-Sep 2024Source: flightglobal.com/airlines/philippine-carriers-warn-of-revenue-pressures-as-profitability-streak-continues/160763.article
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15-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines (PAL) and its subsidiary PAL Express partnered with Airbus SE to support predictive maintenance and health monitoring across their fleet. Airbus will equip PAL’s A321ceo, A321neo, A330ceo, and A350 aircraft with FP+ solution or S. Fleet Performance + suite. The S.FP+ solution is designed to minimise unplanned maintenanceSource: bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/11/15/635079/pal-partners-with-airbus-for-predictive-maintenance/
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15-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia announced a 562,750 PHP grant to Philippine Bike Scouts to fund its disaster preparedness program ahead of typhoon season. The grant is awarded via AirAsia Foundation. The program will include a workshop on skills such as emergency response, radio communication, disaster monitoring, and bicycle safety and maintenance. AirAsia Philippines CEO said the Philippines was hit by 20 typhoons which devastated communities and this partnership provides support to local communitiesSource: mindanaotimes.com.ph/airasia-awards-philippine-grassroots-network-with-php550000-disaster-preparedness-grant/
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15-Nov-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Philippines has recorded 6.6 million passengers YTD, 79% of its 8 million passenger target in 2024. As of mid-Nov, AirAsia Philippines has recorded 89% of its total seat sales for 2023, with bookings recording +6% YoYSource: malaya.com.ph/weekly-features/travel-tourism/airasia-on-track-to-hit-8m-passenger-target/
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