THE Department of Tourism (DOT) is sticking to its target of attracting 7.7 million tourists this year but admitted tweaking the assumptions under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) can be looked at in the future, according to DOT undersecretary Verna Buensuceso.
“The 7.7-million is a moving target. We are keeping it as a guide. We are not adjusting it,” Buensuceso told the EJAP-SMC Aviation Forum in Makati City yesterday.
Tourist arrivals stood at 4 million as of September 1. This means, the DOT has 3.7 million more to go for the next four months. Buensuceso does not see the need to review the assumptions of the NTDP, which set the arrival target at 8.4 million by 2025.
The growth trajectory could change if this year’s target is not achieved. Buensuceso said Philippine tourism continues to experience headwinds like the geopolitical situations and issues on visa facilitation.
But she expressed confidence improved connectivity such as increased flights and seats as well as new tourism offerings would help attract more tourists into the country.
Buensuceso said improved connectivity initiatives include the direct flights from Iloilo to Singapore and to Hong Kong and Davao to Bangkok by Cebu Pacific; Manila to Nagoya by AirAsia and Manila to Seattle, Washington by Philippine Airlines.
She added the DOT has introduced heritage, culture and art caravan to its offerings to tourists apart from the beach/ diving, golf, cruise, festivals among others.
