The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that Philippine tourism receipts have reached ₱712 billion as of December 15, 2024, reflecting a 119 percent recovery rate compared to pre-pandemic figures from 2019.
According to an ABS-CBN News report, the milestone coincided with Japan’s decision to ease travel advisories to several areas in Mindanao, including the Davao region, Misamis Oriental, and Surigao City, lowering them to Level 1, which advises travelers to exercise extra caution. The advisory for the eastern part of Sarangani (Malungon, Alabel, Malapatan, and Glan) was also reduced from Level 3, which discourages travel, to Level 2, recommending avoidance of non-essential trips.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed optimism that Japan’s move would encourage other nations to explore the Philippines beyond its famed “sun and beach destinations.” Japan ranks as the third-largest source of tourists to the country, with 378,935 Japanese visitors recorded as of December 28, 2024.
The DOT aims to attract 7.7 million international tourists by year-end, building on the growing momentum in the sector.
