PH to succeed in global cruise tourism industry —Marcos

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed confidence that the Philippines would succeed in the global cruise tourism industry.

''Our goal does not end at welcoming more ships; we aim to create meaningful, lasting connections between travelers and our country,'' Marcos said in his speech during the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 welcome reception. 

''We strive for each cruise call to be a chance for passengers to step into our story, taste the richness of our cuisine, dance to the rhythms of our traditions, and carry beautiful memories of the Philippines back with them—memories that linger long after the journey ends,'' he added.

Marcos said that by streamlining operations, enhancing efficiencies, and focusing on sustainable practices, Manila aims to ensure that the cruise industry grows in a way that is both practical and inclusive.

Seatrade Cruise Asia is a must-attend for the global cruise industry as this is dubbed as the leading cruise event, which focuses on the potential of Asia as a destination and as a market. 

The event seeks to bring together key stakeholders from the cruise community to learn, network and do business in the region. 

It also focuses on bringing local and international executives and businesses together for networking, learning, and discussion on opportunities for future growth potential.

The Department of Transportation said that in 2023, the country catered to 125 cruise calls in more than 30 destinations. 

As of November 4, 2024, the country will be expecting a total of 109 cruise calls for this year. 

Further, the Philippines secured 97 cruise calls for 2025, has advanced eight cruise calls for 2026, and three in 2027. 

The DOT said there are 40 destinations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that are visited by cruise ships. —LDF, GMA Integrated News