President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday led the ceremonial distribution of training and financial aid to tourism workers affected by natural disasters, rolling out the Bayanihan sa Bukas na May Pag-asa sa Turismo (BBMT) program in Aurora province.
Speaking at the provincial capitol grounds in Baler, President Marcos said the program, implemented jointly by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), aims to help workers recover from calamities such as typhoons Nika, Ofel, and Pepito, which struck Aurora last year and displaced over 100,000 residents across 150 barangays.
“The BBMT will provide training for new livelihood opportunities and extend emergency cash transfers to tourism workers hit by disasters,” the President said, stressing that Aurora’s economy, like many parts of the Philippines, relies heavily on tourism.
Under the program, beneficiaries will receive skills training in areas such as pastry-making, handicrafts, tour development, and guest reception, as well as financial aid worth more than P11,000 each.
Nearly 200,000 workers in Aurora’s tourism sector are expected to benefit.
He noted that more than 2,800 Filipinos have already received assistance through BBMT since its rollout in 2023, including 1,400 in the Davao Region, 70 in Agusan del Sur, and 1,300 in Oriental Mindoro.
“Tourism accounts for around 8 percent of our GDP. We cannot afford to leave our workers behind when disasters strike,” Mr. Marcos said.
“The government is here not only in times of crisis but also to continue improving and expanding your industry,” he added.
The President also linked the program to the broader challenge of climate change, warning that typhoons are becoming stronger and less predictable.
He said the government will continue to extend support to disaster-hit communities nationwide.
“Wherever you may be, whatever livelihood you pursue, when disaster strikes, you can count on your government to help you recover and continue working,” Mr. Marcos said.
Meanwhile, the President highlighted the government’s push to strengthen tourism-related micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the Turismo Asenso Loan Program, calling them vital drivers of the country’s economic growth.
Speaking at a loan awarding ceremony for nine MSMEs from Metro Manila and Calabarzon, Mr. Marcos said the initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.), seeks to make financing more accessible for local tourism businesses.
“Tourism is one of the pillars of our economy. It brings livelihood and development to thousands of small businesses across the country,” the President said.
“Through this program, our MSMEs can grow their businesses, improve services, and secure a better future for their families and communities,” he added.
The President underscored the role of local entrepreneurs, from tour guides and food vendors to small lodging operators, in sustaining the tourism industry and promoting Filipino hospitality.
He said the government would continue expanding support programs such as Negosyo Centers, Go Lokal!, trade fairs, and the establishment of tourist rest areas.
He also urged DOT, DTI, and SB Corp. to simplify loan processes, strengthen outreach, and ensure that entrepreneurs in far-flung areas benefit from the program.
Beyond financial support, President Marcos highlighted the global rise of “experiential tourism,” where travelers seek authentic cultural encounters rather than merely leisure activities.
“Today, tourists prefer meaningful experiences, visiting communities, tasting local food, and discovering places unique to the Philippines,” he said.
“But above all, what they value most is the warmth of Filipino hospitality. That is what truly sets us apart,” President Marcos added.
He praised the tourism workforce and local communities, saying their efforts deepen foreign and domestic travelers’ appreciation of the Philippines.
“Together, let us proudly showcase not just our beautiful landscapes, but the talent, hard work, and creativity of every Filipino,” the President said.
