Despite tension, China remains an 'important market' in PH tourism — DOT

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia—Despite ongoing tension in the South China Sea, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said the Chinese market continues to make a significant contribution to Philippine tourism.

During the ASEAN Travel Forum (ATF), the Tourism Department hosted a media conference that showcased the latest updates, achievements, and goals of Philippine tourism.

While the country strives for continuous growth and development, especially in the tourism industry, DOT officials were asked how the current dispute between the Philippines and China is affecting the tourism sector.

Verna Esmeralda Buensuseco, Assistant Secretary on Tourism Development Planning, said China remains one of the key markets despite the territorial dispute amid Beijing's claims in the South China Sea,

"For China, although yes, there are certain geopolitical situations that are currently prevalent, China continues to be an important market for (the Philippines). China is one of the key markets for tourists," Buensuseco said.

"In fact, I think (China) was the third or fourth biggest market in 2024. There are many initiatives that have been undertaken, one is the Cruise Visa Waiver Program," she pointed out.

The tourism official said since they noticed an interest in visa-required individuals who wish to visit the Philippines through cruises, including those from China, prompting the department to collaborate with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to institute a program that eases entry procedures to the Philippines for those with visa requirements.

"China is one of the beneficiaries as well as the other ASEAN nations," she noted.

The ATF is an annual event that includes a three-day Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) from January 15-17 that is currently being held at the Persada Johor International Convention Center.  TRAVEX is a premier trade show that facilitates business-to-business meetings and promotes ASEAN tourism products and services.

The event assembles travel agents and buyers from ASEAN countries, as well as media representatives from all over the world. This year’s theme is "Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN's Tourism Tomorrow."

The ATF serves as a key platform for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote itself as a unified tourism destination.

Accompanying the Philippine delegation are 17 private sector representatives from the country's tourism industry. —RF, GMA Integrated News