Philippines

Forecast from Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) shows that room rate could drop by 10% to 30% over the next 3 months as the hotels look to attract cost-conscious guests and corporate events. The report also shows 64% of hotels reported severe operational impact due to the energy crisis. 650 in-person ASEAN meetings have been cancelled, affecting the MICE industry. LPC CEO reported that Middle Eastern and European investors are looking to invest in the hospitality, healthcare, and tourism sectors in the Philippines, following the instability in the Middle East

The President named Dita Angara-Mathay as the new Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary. She previously served as Commercial Counsellor at the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre in Tokyo, Japan

Asian Development Bank (ADB) has cut its 2026 growth forecast for the Philippines in 2026 to 4.4% in its Asian Development Outlook (ADO) Apr 2026, a drop from 5.3% in the ADO Dec 2025 edition. The growth is projected to reach 5.5% in 2027. ADB said domestic demand will continue to drive the growth. Inflation is projected to reach 4% in 2026, and 3.5% in 2027

Siquijor Island’s annual Healing Festival, held during the Holy Week at Mount Bandilaan Nature Park, has become an important event. The Department of Agriculture-Negros Island Region is pushing for an integration of agriculture into Siquijor’s tourism economy

The Trade Secretary announced there will be no price increase for basic necessities and important commodities until 30 Apr. The Department of Trade and Industry’s price hold will cover 205 products, such as canned goods, bread, bottled water, candles, and detergent. Luzon consumers will see a 52.5% increase in electric bill in Apr due to lower fuel supply

Data from the Malay Municipal Tourism Office shows total tourists dropped to 56,590 from 29 Mar to 5 Apr, vs 59,156 visitors in 13-20 Apr 2025, for the Holy Week. In 2026, 86% of the total visitors are domestic tourists with 48,607, while foreigners represent 13.2% or 4,449, and the overseas Filipinos account for the rest with 534

The World Bank has downgraded the Philippines’ economic growth outlook to 3.7% in 2026, vs 5.3% it had forecast previously. The Philippines is affected due to its reliance on energy and fertiliser imports, and remittances from overseas Filipinos in the Gulf. The Philippines’ 18% of remittances are from the Gulf. The World Bank expects Philippine growth to reach 5.6%, vs its earlier projection of 5.4%

The Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Labour Force Survey for Feb 2026 shows there are 2.66 million unemployed people with 5.1% unemployment rate, lower than 5.8% in Jan 2026, but higher than 3.8% in Feb 2025. The employment rate reached 49.43 million individuals or a rate of 94.9% in Feb 2026, vs 94.2% in Jan 2026 and 96.2% in Feb 2025

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) warns that the temperature will increase in the coming weeks until May, and could even reach ‘danger’ level. Historical data shows heat index levels in Central Visayas could reach 44 degrees Celsius in May

The President of the Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI) expects the occupancy rate to be around 50% to 60%, due to a slowdown in bookings following the Middle East conflict. The Bohol Tourism Office Head stated the fares for the Cebu-Bohol ferry, island-hopping boat services, and land transportation have increased, which could potentially discourage people from travelling within the region. The Co-Chairperson of the Cebu Provincial Tourism Council recommended promoting a gastronomy circuit in Northern Cebu to encourage tourists to stay longer in a single destination, which could reduce transport costs. At least 22 hotels and resorts in Cebu have introduced promotions, including up to 50% discounts with staycation and workcation packages. The region is looking to promote in Asia Pacific markets such as China, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and the domestic market

Iloilo City hosted Filipino Food Month on 6 Apr at SM Iloilo Terminal Market under the theme "Connected by Taste: Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN”

Ocean Fast Ferries Inc. announced that they will cut down its ferry trips from Cebu, Tagbilaran, Siquijor, and Dumaguete from 8-29 Apr due to an increase in oil prices

The Philippines posted a 4.1% YoY increase in headline inflation in Mar, vs the 2.4% recorded in Feb, reaching the highest rate since Jul 2024, when inflation reached 4.4%. Inflation increased 1.4% MoM, the highest since Jan 2023. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said "A sharp and prolonged oil price shock could trigger spillover effects with the potential broadening of price pressures". The increase in inflation was due to an increase in global energy prices

Negros Oriental Governor orders austerity measures for the provincial government, such as temporary restrictions on official travels and non-essential activities following the energy emergency declared by the President

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Eastern Visayas reported about 15% drop in tourist arrivals at DZR Airport for the Holy Week. Tourism stakeholders said the booking cancellations were due to the increase in fuel costs. Burauen, Leyte, recorded 879 visitors in Feb and 847 in Mar. The Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary in Murcia, Negros Occidental, welcomed nearly 7,000 guests from 2-5 Apr. On 5 Apr alone, they recorded 2,416 visitors. Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, recorded overnight tourists around 3,500 to 4,000, with day visitors reaching 5,000 to 6,000 daily

K-pop group Mamamoo will perform a concert in Manila on 8 Aug, as part of their 2026 World Tour

The Department of Tourism’s data shows Boracay welcomed 200,165 tourists in Mar 2026, -31.3% YoY vs 291,418 in Mar 2025. Domestic tourists account for over 82% of the total tourists or 164,922, international visitors reached 32,925, and overseas Filipinos, 2,318

Montenegro Shipping Lines has increased ferry fares for the Batangas-Occidental Mindoro route from 6 Apr, due to an increase in fuel prices. The fares for regular passengers will cost 728 PHP, students 582 PHP, senior citizens 520 PHP, and children between 0-7 years old 364 PHP. Batangas Port will charge a 60 PHP terminal fee

During the webinar titled “Tourism Key Themes For 2026: Navigating Arrivals Growth, Demand Shifts And Strategic Adaptation,” a BMI Tourism Analyst said high fuel costs will impact airfares and the demand will shift towards closer destinations. She added that they noticed a preference for travel and experiences among the young-adult population (20-39 years old), instead of just spending on items, while the middle-aged population (40-65 years old) has stronger purchasing power, which indicates continued demand for discretionary categories like travel and hospitality. BMI Associate Director for Tourism Research said that “Over 2026, high-income households will support the luxury tourism sector through continued discretionary spending, while middle- and low-income households become more cautious in their spending patterns”. He also noted that the travel trend will focus on purpose-driven travel instead of destination-centred travel

Zambales has reported over 10,000 tourists visiting during Holy Week as of 4 Apr, with the number expected to increase as the municipal tourism office is still collecting information from resort owners

Mt. Kabunian in Bakun, Benguet, has suspended trekking and other activities following a grass fire on the mountain on 2 Apr. The Bakun Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council rescued 18 tourists and 3 guides

Boracay welcomed 1,500 Chinese tourists and 800 crew members aboard the MS Adora Mediterranea cruise ship from Xiamen, China

The Sustainable Tourism Impact Fund – a partnership between Agoda, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Singapore, and the UnTours Foundation, to support SMEs with flexible financing – will allocate a second round of funding. The Fund will support businesses which integrate environmental restoration, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development. Livingseas Asia, based in Indonesia, and Bambike Ecotours, based in the Philippines, will receive new investments of $25,000 USD in loan capital. Livingseas Asia is a business which combines dive tourism with coral reef restoration in Pandangbai, Bali. Livingseas Foundation has restored over 7,300 square metres of reefs by deploying artificial reef structures and has planted 320,000 coral fragments. Bambike Ecotours connects bamboo agroforestry, fair trade bicycle manufacturing in rural communities, offering regenerative tourism experiences

La Union province welcomed 518,937 tourist arrivals in 2025, and generated an estimated 1.02 billion PHP in tourism receipts. San Juan recorded 184,762 visitors, San Fernando City 134,181 arrivals, and Bauang 81,146

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported the Philippines is expected to reach the “extreme caution” heat index on 3 Apr. The index could reach from 33ºC to 41ºC

Camiguin Province has been hit hard due to the Middle East conflict. The province launched the “Isle Visit Camiguin 2026” campaign in 2025. The New York Times included Camiguin in its “52 Places to Go in 2026” list, ranking it in 37th place and as the sole destination in the Philippines. However, in Mar 2026, the province only recorded 18,000 tourists, vs 20,000 in Mar 2025, despite Jan 2026 and Feb 2026 arrivals exceeding YoY arrivals

Iran has assured the Philippines that it will allow a safe passage for Philippine-flagged vessels, fuel and Filipino seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz after the Foreign Secretary spoke with the Iranian Foreign Minister

Grab has submitted a list of its drivers, riders, and delivery-partners to be included in the government’s fuel assistance program. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) criticised Grab and inDrive for filtering their initial list and called it “concealment”. Those drivers who missed the initial distributions will receive a special payout. The government has allocated 2.5 billion PHP for the fuel subsidy program to benefit 245,000 drivers. The President approved an additional 1.38 billion PHP of funds

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) expects an estimated 45,000 outbound passengers daily in major airports during the Holy Week peak travel period. BI warned of scammers taking advantage of the travel surge by operating a fraudulent website to collect fees for the electronic travel declaration system fee. BI advised travellers to register only through the etravel.gov.ph, which is free of charge

The Department of Justice has extended visas for stranded foreign visitors until 1 May due to the Middle East conflict. The order will cover foreigners whose visas expired on 28 Feb onwards

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reported passenger traffic at seaports reaching 874,232 as of 1 Apr, almost 1/3rd of the 2.41 million total passengers recorded during the Semana Santa period in 2025. The PPA projects total Holy Week passengers until 5 Apr to reach 2.46 million, +1.7% YoY

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) projects that inflation in Mar 2026 could reach 3.1% to 3.9%. The inflation reached 2.4% in Feb 2026, the highest in 13 months

The Department of Tourism is promoting domestic travel following the Middle East conflict, which could affect the number of inbound tourists. In 2024, the Philippines recorded 134 million domestic trips, generating 3.14 trillion PHP in local spending, +3.14% YoY

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported 22,135 outbound and 22,503 inbound passengers through its ports on 1 Apr, from midnight to 6am. On 31 Mar, authorities recorded 186,952 outbound and 152,492 inbound passengers. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) projected that passenger traffic could reach 2.46 million from 29 Mar to 5 Apr, +1.17% YoY

The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) announced discounts on port charges from 18 Apr to protect the shipping companies from the rising fuel costs. CPA will offer a 40% discount on berthing fees for domestic vessels and a 40% discount on anchorage fees within the CPA jurisdiction. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) will announce a similar program for airlines

Trip.com reported 25% YoY increase in domestic bookings with the top destinations including Manila City, Cebu, Palawan, Boracay, Davao del Sur, Bohol, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Leyte, and Misamis Oriental

Ajuy, Iloilo Province declared a state of calamity due to the fuel crisis, which has disrupted essential services, affecting residents’ daily lives

Donsol, Sorsogon has cancelled the Butanding Festival, which was scheduled from 24-30 Apr, due to the impact of increasing oil prices. The Municipal Tourism Officer assured that despite the cancellation of the event, tourism activities, such as whale shark interactions, will continue. She added that due to the Middle East conflict, most of the European tourists couldn’t fly to the Philippines through Dubai. Tourist arrivals have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels of 27,000, with only 6,400 recorded in 2025

The Transportation Secretary reported there is a 10% drop in passenger ferries, due to the fuel shortage. He added that some shipping lines have been suspended or reduced as part of cost efficiency and savings. He asked the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to deploy ships and personnel at strategic ports, including in Marinduque, Batangas, and Calapan, to assist any stranded commuters. The PCG reported 53,139 outbound and 45,129 inbound passengers in all ports in the Philippines as of 30 Mar

Seaoil announced that the diesel price has increased by 12.50 PHP per litre, while Jetti Petroleum increased its diesel price by 12.90 PHP per litre. The Department of Energy said the Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC) has secured 1.042 million barrels of diesel (165.678 million litres), through Apr

Ferry operator Island Water has launched a new direct sea route connecting Pola and Batangas City from 28 Mar, with additional trips planned for early Apr to meet demand ahead of the summer season

The Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) is expecting 3 million passengers from 22 Mar to 6 Apr. From 22-27 Mar alone, PITX recorded over 1 million passengers

The Philippines recorded 925 million PHP in preliminary sales leads at ITB Berlin 2026, which was held from 3-5 Mar. Previously, sales leads were recorded at 276.7 million PHP in 2023, 448.9 million PHP in 2024, and 590.5 million PHP in 2025

Santa Fe Town, Bantayan Island, is expecting 10,000 tourists during the Holy Week. The ferry operators will continue to operate regular schedules, and have not announced any additional trips

The Peso fell to 60.55 PHP vs 1 USD, the weakest yet, on 27 Mar

Cuenca Municipal Government in Batangas has temporarily closed Mount Maculot for hiking activities, as part of new tourism and environmental management measures. During the closure, the local government will implement initiatives such as the introduction of environmental user fees, retraining and re-accreditation of local guides, rehabilitation of existing trails, and hiring additional personnel

The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced 425 out of 14,485 gas stations in the Philippines have been closed temporarily due to supply constraints as of 27 Mar

The Philippines welcomed 1.25 million international arrivals from Jan-Feb 2026, 3.4% YoY, including 1.33 million foreign visitors (93.7% of total arrivals) and 83,319 overseas Filipinos, -1.4% YoY. The top arrivals were South Korea, 293,347 (-8.2% YoY); the US, 276,394 (+3.4% YoY); Japan, 85,694 (+7.1% YoY), Canada (+14.1% YoY); Australia (+11.6% YoY); the UK (+10.4%); China, 32,890 (-19.4% YoY); and Taiwan, 52,745 (+35.7% YoY)

The President announced that the 2026 ASEAN Summit will be scaled down and will focus on oil, food, and migrant workers. The ASEAN Summit will be shortened to 1 and a half days, from 7-8 May. The 22 billion PHP budget, which was allocated for the ASEAN Summit, has been slashed and reallocated for those affected by the oil crisis

The President has signed Republic Act (RA) 12316 into law, which will grant him the power to suspend or reduce excise tax on petroleum products for 2 years. The act states that the President can use this power based on the recommendation of the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) and in coordination with the Energy Secretary once the Dubai crude oil on the Mean of the Platts Singapore (MOPS) reaches or exceeds $80 USD for 1 month

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that 617 Filipinos have been repatriated due to the Middle East conflict. As of 25 Mar, 189 Filipinos were repatriated from Dubai, followed by 144 from Doha, 115 from Amman, 77 from Abu Dhabi, 45 from Tel Aviv, 23 from Tehran, 20 from Baghdad, and 4 from Manama

The Ministry of Transportation and Communication in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOTC-BARMM) will offer fuel subsidies of 7,500 PHP for the franchise holder of public utility jeepneys, UV Express units, buses, minibuses, and taxis with a valid certification

President of transport group Piston said drivers and operators of public utility vehicles will continue with transport strikes and protests until the government supports them. The No to Oil Price Hike Coalition, which includes drivers of jeepneys, buses, UV express, and transport network vehicle services, launched its transport strike from 19-20 Mar. The coalition is demanding the removal of excise tax and value-added tax (VAT) on fuel products; rollback of prices of fuel to 55 PHP per litre; abolition of the oil deregulation law; implementation of a fare hike and 1,200 PHP family living wage; nationalisation of the oil industry; and to cease the war in the Middle East

The Mountain Province has cancelled the Lang-ay Festival, which was scheduled on 6 Apr due to the state of national energy emergency declaration. The Mayor of Sagada said the municipal government is studying the impact of the Middle East conflict on Cordillera’s tourism

Klook published its Travel Pulse 2026 report, which surveyed 11,000 respondents across the Asia Pacific. Klook recorded 50.7% growth among users in the Philippines, 39.2% growth in domestic businesses, a 127% increase in hotels, and a 113% increase in emerging destinations. Klook Philippines General Manager said these results might have changed due to the Middle East conflict. The results shows 71% of Filipinos travelled domestically in 2025, and the top destinations were Metro Manila, Boracay, Cavite, Cebu, and Pampanga

The President oversaw the fuel subsidies rollout for bus drivers and operators. Each bus unit will receive a 10,000 PHP subsidy, with a total of 2.5 billion allocated under the 2025 national budget. 245,066 drivers and operators of 1,180,783 units of public utility vehicles (PUVs) will receive the subsidy

The Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Halal Tourism and Muslim Concerns took part in the 3rd Halal and Muslim-Friendly Tourism Forum at the Malaysian Embassy in Manila. The Philippines welcomed 630,000 Muslim visitors in 2024, +23% YoY according to the Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA). GTBA Founder and President said they plan to increase promotion of Halal tourism in the Philippines and create jobs to support local tourism businesses. The initiatives will involve: Creating land and sea cross-linkage tours of halal-friendly destinations like Metro Manila, Cebu, Boracay and Davao Establishing a Halal Fusion Culinary Festival of Filipino cuisine and Muslim traditions Promoting Halal Lifestyle Travel through retreats and cultural tours Conducting Halal Tourism Awards for Local Government Units Creating a Halal Interfaith Harmony Festival to allow tourists to visit multiple faith sites, including mosques

The Governor of Ilocos Norte province announced the launch of a travel incentive program to attract visitors to the province despite an increase in fuel prices. The province will offer free bus rides to and from Ilocos Norte from 31 Mar to 3 Apr, for the Holy Week, in partnership with GV Florida Transport Inc.

The President has declared a state of national energy emergency following the Middle East conflict, which poses an “imminent danger” to the country’s energy supply. The President said he has formed a committee to ensure the movement, supply, distribution and availability of fuel, food, medicines, agricultural products, and other essential goods. This declaration will remain in effect for one year, and will allow the government to procure fuel and petroleum products to ensure sufficient supply, and to pay the contract amount in advance if necessary

During the Senate Committee hearing on the Department of Energy (DOE)’s contingency plans, the DOE Secretary said the Philippines may run out of fuel supply after 2 months, as oil companies and the government failed to secure backup suppliers in a month and a half. DOE stated the Philippines has a gasoline supply for another 53 days and a diesel supply for another 46 days. She added that the DOE and private companies have contracted for more gasoline for an additional 11 days of supply and 8 days of diesel supply

The occupancy rate at hotels and resorts in Cebu are steady despite an increase in fuel prices, but increasing operational costs could pose a challenge to the tourism sector in the coming months. The President of the Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association in Cebu (HRRAC) said costs, including fuel, electricity, and retail goods, such as food and beverages, could increase sharply in the next few weeks. The President of Mezzo Hotel said that due to the travel restrictions, there were some cancellations of education and government-related bookings. The members of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) remain optimistic that the 14-day visa-free entry for Chinese tourists could provide opportunities for the Philippines. The Board Secretary of CCCI added that there could be a 10%-15% impact on the occupancy rate during the peak summer season. He said they experience around 60%-70% occupancy rate during the summer and 90% of occupancy rate during the peak. Hotels are implementing strict operational controls to manage the rising costs, including energy conservation measures, stricter event schedules, and encouraging guests to participate in energy-saving practices

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary announced that the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has reduced the roll-on, roll-off ships (Ro-ro) terminal fees for Class 3 and 4 vehicles, which transport agricultural goods. The fee will be in effect for 6 months and will be reduced at a range of 258-516 PHP, depending on vehicle type. The DOTr also announced a 50% cut in fare rates for the Metro Rail Transit 3 and Light Rail Transit (LRT) 2 from 23 Mar, and they are coordinating with the Light Rail Manila Corp, which operates the LRT 1, to reduce its fare. Public utility and freight service vehicles will receive a 2-month toll discount in North Luzon Expressway, South Luzon Expressway and Southern Tagalog Arterial Road

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Calabarzon provided the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Training to participants in Jomalig, Quezon, on 17 Mar. 40 participants, including beach resort staff, cafe staff, local vendors, habal-habal drivers, and members of the Local Tourism Office, took part in the training

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Officer In-Charge (OIC) led the first meeting of the reconstituted Philippine Cruise Tourism Development Committee, with participation from the Department of Transportation, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Public Works and Highways, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority, and the Bureaus of Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine, along with private sector. The participants agreed to take collective action to improve port operations, streamline passenger processing, and improve the overall cruise experience

OceanJet has implemented a temporary fuel surcharge adjustment from 23 Mar, where the fare will be increased between 160-200 PHP in different routes

The fuel price is expected to increase this week, with diesel increasing at 11.88 PHP per litre, gasoline by 6.47 PHP per litre, and kerosene by 13.66 PHP per litre, according to the Department of Energy

The island town of Patnanungan in Quezon province is facing reduced power hours for 5 days due to the reduction of its local power plant’s operating hours, as it waits for a new shipment of fuel from the mainland

The Mayor of Patnanungan town in Quezon province announced the local power plant will operate for only 16 hours daily from 4pm to 8am to conserve fuel supply, while waiting for a new supply shipment from the port of Real on the Quezon mainland. She asked residents to conserve electricity during this period

The Alliance of Concerned Transport Organisation (ACTO) announced its jeepney operating members will not operate on 23 Mar following an increase in fuel prices. To show that they are struggling. ACTO National President urged the government to assist with service contracts and bank moratorium for transport cooperatives struggling to pay for modern jeepney

The Philippines will allow the usage of Euro-II compliant petroleum products – a cheaper but dirtier type of fuel – for vehicles before 2015, traditional jeepneys, power plants and generators, and the marine and shipping sectors, to maintain fuel supply

President Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will “reopen the importation and buying of coal so that our power plants do not run short of fuel, and to ensure that our power supply remains sufficient” amid the energy crisis

Cebu has proposed constructing an International Sports Complex to host international events, including to support the Philippines’ bid to host the 2028 Asian Beach Games

The President announced that the price for basic commodities will remain the same, as the supply for food, rice, and all basic goods is “good”. However, the situation remains uncertain due to whether the conflict in the Middle East continues into H2 2026, which could increase prices. The Trade Secretary stated that the manufacturers and the industries have assured that there will be no price increase for necessities and commodities for the next 30 days. She asked the people not to panic or hoard commodities

Central Visayas’ MICE sector is growing as various events have been held or are slated to be held in 2026: Cebu hosted the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat and the ASEAN Tourism Forum Panglao, Bohol, hosted the First ASEAN Senior Economic Officials’ Meeting 11th International Travel Festival at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, from 13-15 Mar The Sports Tourism Forum Cebu at Nustar Resort Hotel, 18 Mar The Sinag Liga Asya Junior World Showcase, Jul Build Better 2026 and the Bjorn Again ABBA Concert Tour, Aug The Asian Carriers Conference, Sep

The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta announced that Eid’l Fitr will be celebrated on 21 Mar in the Philippines

Thousands of jeepney drivers protested a more than doubling of local diesel prices related to the global oil price surge due to the Middle East conflict. The leader of the transport group leading the national strike said the government’s measures of shortening the work week and providing fuel subsidies, as well as granting the President emergency powers to suspend or reduce fuel taxes, are not enough. He called for the repeal of a law that abolished the government of its authority to control fuel prices

The Philippine President and the Bhutan PM expressed commitment to strengthen tourism, trade, investment, and cultural relations during a historic first meeting at Malacañang Palace in Manila

The Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary announced they are in the process of acquiring 2 million barrels of fuel, to add 10 additional days of buffer stock of fuel. He said the supply could arrive by this week. The Philippines consumes an estimated 200,000 barrels per day, and the additional purchase would extend the buffer to up to 70 days. DOF said suspension of fuel tax from May could reduce the revenue by 136 million PHP

The President rolled back the previously announced fare hike for public transportation, which was announced on 17 Mar, stating that now was not the right time to increase fares, and asking the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to offer free rides all over the country. However, which forms of public transport would be offered for free was not specified. The DOTr announced the suspension of the fare hikes

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved fare increases for all modes of land public transportation due to an increase in fuel costs driven by the conflict in the Middle East. The Department of Energy (DOE) warned that diesel prices could reach 95-114 PHP per litre from 17 Mar. Brent crude has increased by 50% since the beginning of 2026, breaching $100 per barrel, the highest since Sep 2023. Under the new adjustments, the minimum fares for: Traditional jeepneys increased from 13 PHP to 14 PHP, and the per km rate increased from 1.80 PHP to 2 PHP Modern jeepneys’ fares will increase from 15 PHP to 17 PHP, with a per-km rate increase from 10 cents to 2.30 PHP For buses in Manila and other cities, the minimum fare will increase from 13 PHP to 15 PHP for the first 4km, with per-km charge increasing from 2.25 PHP to 2.49 PHP Air-conditioned city bus fares will increase from 15 PHP to 18 PHP for the first 5km, while the per-km rate will increase from 2.65 PHP to 2.98 PHP Provincial ordinary buses will increase by 1 PHP for the first 5km, 30 cents for ordinary buses (1.90 PHP to 2.20 PHP), 35 cents for air-conditioned deluxe and super deluxe buses (2.10 PHP to 2.45 PHP), and 45 cents for luxury buses (2.90 PHP to P3.35 PHP) Airport taxi fares will increase from 75 PHP to 115 PHP LTFRB is still considering a petition to increase fares for ordinary taxis and UV Express Overall, the adjustments reflect a 19% increase in fares across all regions

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) asked Local Government Units (LGUs) to adopt energy and fuel conservation measures, including implementing a 4-day work week or designating a work-from-home day. DILG asked LGUs to cut electricity and fuel consumption by 10%-20%. DILG also asked the officials to travel only for essential functions

The PHP reached 60.4 PHP against USD on 18 Mar, its weakest on record. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will monitor the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on the Philippines’ inflation and economy ahead of the policy meeting on 23 Apr

During AHICE Southeast Asia, which was held in Singapore, JLL Senior Vice-President for Advisory in Asia noted a shift in growth sectors in luxury hospitality from Singapore and Bangkok to emerging markets in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s Regional Vice-President for Development in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines said luxury travel is resilient and a prime segment for industrial growth. He added that they are seeing rapid growth in travellers from within and outside Asia. Mordor Intelligence reports the luxury Asia Pacific hotel market will generate around $37 billion USD in revenues by the end of 2026, up from $34 billion USD in 2025, and revenue will reach $58 billion USD over the next 5 years. 60% of Hyatt’s portfolio in the Asia Pacific is in the luxury premium segment, and they plan to open 90 luxury lifestyle properties. Vice-President for Development in Southeast Asia and Korea for IHG Hotels & Resorts said that based on statistics, 80% of luxury travellers are going to be millennials, Gen Z, or Gen Alpha by 2030

A government 5,000 PHP subsidy was distributed to tricycle drivers in Manila, as a temporary relief from the increase in fuel prices. Some drivers said their daily earnings dropped from 1,000 PHP to just 500 PHP. The drivers also requested to remove the fuel tax completely if possible, or reduce it by 50% >>

Tourism stakeholders expressed concern over no official signing of a document to appoint the Undersecretary for Tourism Development Planning as Officer-in-Charge for the Department of Tourism. The Philippine Hotel Owners Association President expressed worry about the lack of an immediate appointment to replace the DOT Secretary. The Palace Press Officer said there are no discussions on the replacement, and asked everyone to wait for a few weeks

IHG Hotels & Resorts is scheduled to open the 212-room InterContinental Manila in 2032

More than 180 Filipinos in Lebanon requested assistance to be repatriated, as Israel has intensified military operations in south Lebanon. The Philippines Embassy in Lebanon reported that 167 Filipino workers and 14 overseas Filipinos with families registered for voluntary repatriation. Many Filipinos living in Lebanon have moved to the northern region following the conflict. 14,000 Filipinos are living in Lebanon

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement (PCHM) will host the Buwan ng Kalutong Filipino 2026 in Apr to celebrate Filipino Food Month under the theme, “Connected by Taste: Filipino Food in the Flavors of Asean”

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will likely cut its GDP forecast for the Philippines. ADP earlier estimated a 5.3% growth forecast for 2026. The ADB Chief Economist said that the conflict in the Middle East has trimmed 0.1% off Southeast Asia’s GDP growth

Pulse Asia Research’s Ulat ng Bayan survey shows 59% of Filipinos are concerned about inflation, while 47% want corruption addressed. 36% ranked workers' pay as their top concern, followed by reducing poverty, creating more jobs, and fighting the sale and use of illegal drugs at 21%. 17% want criminal activities to be addressed, 14% helping farmers, 11% enforcing the rules, 10% addressing involuntary hunger, 9% protecting the environment, and 9% promoting peace. The government’s efforts to protect overseas Filipino workers received a 53% approval rating. 73% of Filipino adults are critical of the government over their handling of inflation control, poverty reduction, corruption, and the widespread sale and use of illegal drugs

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) will expand its portfolio in Q4 2026 with the opening of 3 new SMX Trade Halls in Cabanatuan, Santo Tomas, and Santa Rosa

The President asked the Department of Tourism (DOT) to improve the tourism sector to close the huge gap with other countries in the region. He inaugurated the Mactan Expo Centre, which will host the ASEAN Summit in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. The second ASEAN Summit will be held at the Philippine International Convention Centre in Metro Manila in Nov

The House of Representatives has approved the final reading of the bill, which allows the President to use his authority to cut or suspend excise taxes on petroleum products. The order can be triggered if the average Dubai crude oil price exceeds $80 USD per barrel for one month immediately before the suspension or reduction order or when the President declares a state of national emergency or calamity, which could increase domestic pump prices of petroleum products

The Philippines proposed to transform the ASEAN Geoeconomics Task Force into a permanent regional body, called the ASEAN Geoeconomic Group. This will allow ASEAN member states to discuss policy responses and align decision-making on economic and trade issue

The Philippine government chartered a repatriation flight from the UAE on 14 Mar, carrying 442 Filipinos home, 224 of whom were overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). 1,189 OFWs are seeking repatriation from the Middle East as of 4 Mar

342 Filipinos returned to the Philippines on 15 Mar through the government’s second chartered repatriation flight from West Asia

Puerto Galera took part in the Diving Resort Travel Expo (DRT) Shanghai 2026 from 6-8 Mar in Shanghai, China

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conducted consultations through the Protected Area Management Office to discuss policies and management strategies for the Manta Bowl, a dive site within the Ticao–Burias Pass Protected Seascape in San Jacinto. The site is popular for marine wildlife tourism and hosts reef manta rays. Research from the Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines (LAMAVE) shows that from 2004 to 2020, they identified 1,710 manta ray sightings in San Jacinto. Across the country, the researchers have identified 2,659 sightings involving 499 manta rays across 22 sites

Subic Bay welcomed a luxury cruise ship, Crystal Symphony, operated by Crystal Cruises on 14 Mar, with 550 tourists. They visited historical sites and shopping malls in Subic and Clark Freeport. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is planning a 10.2 billion PHP cruise ship terminal to position itself as a premier cruise turnaround hub in Southeast Asia. The SBMA Tourism Department said at least 8 international cruise ships have been confirmed to visit Subic Bay in 2026, with 2 in Mar and 2 in Apr. MS Amadea, operated under charter by Phoenix Reisen, will arrive on 30 Mar, with 916 passengers, and the cruise on a 146-day trip will make stops in Manila on 31 Mar, Romblon on 1 Apr, Coron on 2 Apr, and Puerto Princesa on 3 Apr. MV Piano Land, operated by Corazul Cruceros, will arrive at Subic on 6 and 16 Apr, with 2,722 passengers and crew. Costa Serena, operated by Costa Crociere, will arrive on 25 Oct. Subic’s cruise tourism program, which was launched in 2018, brought 37 cruise liners with more than 49,000 passengers until 2019, and generated 173 million PHP in tourism receipts for Central Luzon

The 11th edition of the International Travel Festival (ITF) 2026 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino was held from 13-15 Mar under the theme “Dream. Go. Live.”

The unemployment rate in the Philippines increased to 5.8% in Jan 2026, the highest since the 6.03% rate recorded in Jun 2023. The number of unemployed people reached 2.96 million, the highest since 2022. A labour economist at Ateneo de Manila University said this data has “effectively erased four years of labour market recovery in a single year”. 6.53 million employed Filipinos are looking for additional work or longer hours to boost their income in Jan 2026, which increased from 3.93 million recorded in Dec 2025. The employment rate dropped to 94.2% (47.94 million Filipinos with jobs) in Jan 2026 from 95.6% (49.43 million) in Dec 2025. The economist said that usually unemployment will increase in Jan as the economy shifts away from the holiday season, but the Jan 2026 figure is alarmingly high. Agriculture and forestry lost 1.76 million workers, followed by wholesale and retail trade, 888,000 and construction, 199,000

The Cebu Government will hand over the organising role of the “Suroy-Suroy Sugbo” (Wander Around Cebu), its long-running tourism caravan, to the private sector. The Governor said this was part of the effort to improve partnerships with tourism stakeholders. She said this during the opening ceremony of the 11th International Travel Festival 2026 held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino on 13 Mar. She added that the Provincial Tourism Office has started to virtually map the tourism destinations, with several towns already available in immersive 360-degree online tours to help visitors explore Cebu before their trips. The government has handed the program to the Cebu Tourism Council, which has been restructured into thematic tours to accredited tour operators. The rebranded program will offer programs like Coastal Journey in the South (Adventure Tour), Highland, Island and River Journeys, Southern Pilgrimage, and the South Countryside Tour

Christina Frasco steps down as the Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and has been appointed as a Presidential adviser for sustainable and resilient communities. Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso will serve as the DOT Officer in Charge (OIC)

Chief economist of Security Bank Corporation warns inflation in Mar could reach 4% if Dubai crude oil continues above $100 USD per barrel

The Philippines Retirement Authority (PRA) CEO said they achieved 99% of their target in 2024, and in 2026, they recorded a 25% YoY increase. The Philippines is hosting more than 84,000 foreign retirees, with 40% from China, followed by South Korea, India, the US, and Taiwan. PRA is targeting younger and financially capable Asians, lowering the minimum retirement age to 40 from 50

The Department of Tourism (DOT-13) Regional Director said the increase in fuel costs in Mar 2026 is expected to impact maritime and air transportation operations in Caraga and across the Philippines. She added that major shipping lines cancelled trips on the Surigao City-Siargao route. Evaristo and Sons Sea Transport Corp temporarily reduced its scheduled trips to Siagao Island due to rising fuel costs. She said that, “Since island destinations in the region rely heavily on sea transport for tourism access, sustained increases in operational costs could directly affect tourist mobility, destination competitiveness, and the overall performance of the tourism sector in Caraga”. From 13 Mar, the company will operate only three morning trips from Surigao City to Dapa in Siargao Island, and two trips from Dapa to Surigao