PH, Israel agree to boost tourism ties

The Philippines and Israel signed a joint declaration to foster the tourism industry between the two countries. 

According to a statement on Wednesday, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Frasco met with the Israel Minister of Tourism Haim Katz earlier this month.

"We are excited to see such strong interest from Filipino travelers to Israel… With the upcoming Jubilee Year, we anticipate even more Filipinos will be eager to experience the holy land and the rich history, culture, and hospitality Israel offers," said Katz.

"We hope to see direct flights between Israel and the Philippines very soon, this will boost tourism and people-to-people exchange,” added Katz.

Katz’s visit to the country aims to expand their presence in the Philippine Tourism Market, specifically for nature travel, and boost their country as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts.

The minister will also meet with the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), religious leaders in Manila, and host discussions with the President of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) for the possibility of direct flights between Israel and the Philippines. 

“I hope that this will encourage tourism exchanges between our nations, particularly with the visa-free travel for Filipinos to Israel and vice versa. I invite Filipinos to experience Israel not just as the Holy Land but to enjoy culinary and experience the Land of Innovation and Start-Up Nation,” added Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss.

—Jiselle Anne Casucian/ VAL, GMA Integrated News