The Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed appreciation to the bicameral conference committee for supporting the tourism budget and reinforcing the importance of strategic investment in the sector following the approval of the final allocation.
Drawing from recent deliberations, the DOT underscored that investments in tourism are a growth multiplier delivering measurable national returns rather than mere expenditure.
Even with a branding and promotions budget of just P100 million in 2024, the sector generated P3.86 trillion in total receipts, including a record P700 billion from foreign visitors, the DOT said.
The industry accounted for 8.9 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) and supported around 16 million tourism-related jobs.
Despite economic headwinds, the sector continued to generate income and employment across regions, sustaining small businesses and reinforcing communities where tourism serves as a key economic pillar.
The department said the approved increase in promotion funding enables it to expand data-driven campaigns, strengthen market presence in priority destinations and sustain demand nationwide.
The DOT said these investments are targeted and performance-measured to ensure public funds translate into higher visitor arrivals, longer stays and increased receipts.
Spending on branding and product development produces benefits that extend beyond the sector by stimulating activity in transportation, agriculture, retail and creative industries.This allows economic gains to reach local governments throughout the country.
