Tourism spending in the Philippines climbed to an estimated PHP694 billion in 2025, underscoring the sector’s revenue strength even as total visitor numbers remained below pre-pandemic highs, according to the Department of Tourism.
Based on figures compiled from the Bureau of Immigration, the agency reported that inbound arrivals for the year reached 6,484,060. Of this total, 5,940,975 were foreign visitors, a count that includes cruise passengers and other categories not fully reflected in the eTravel system, while 543,085 were returning overseas Filipinos.
The DOT said preliminary estimates placed international visitor spending at PHP694 billion, pointing to value creation rather than volume as a key indicator of performance. While arrivals have not yet returned to 2019 levels, the department noted that results were achieved amid multiple pressures, including travel advisories in several source markets and domestic fiscal limitations.
Officials emphasized that tourism outcomes should not be assessed on arrival figures alone, citing the role of domestic travel, employment generation, and wider economic linkages. The agency said its current strategy is aligned with the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028, which prioritizes connectivity improvements, safety measures, workforce upskilling, and higher service standards.
In terms of sector developments, the DOT highlighted several milestones reached during the year. These included the entry of the Michelin Guide into the Philippine market and the country’s hosting of the first Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific, alongside continued investments in transport links and tourism infrastructure.
Air connectivity expanded in 2025 with the launch of 19 new international direct routes, linking Manila, Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, and Kalibo to major cities across Asia, Oceania, North America, and Eastern Europe. Cruise tourism also recorded 136 port calls, bringing in 56,040 passengers and 15,071 crew members.
The department further reported hosting the SALAAM 2025 Expo, a Muslim travel trade show that generated around PHP1.8 million in sales and highlighted the growing market for halal and Muslim-friendly travel.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the sector’s performance reflected the collective contribution of tourism workers, local governments, private enterprises, and host communities.
“Whatever gains we have made this year are only made possible because of the hard work of our tourism workers and stakeholders,” Frasco said.
“Despite challenges beyond our control, they remained resilient, innovative, and committed to service, ensuring that tourism continues to generate jobs, livelihoods, and opportunities for millions of Filipinos,” she added.
As of Dec. 15, 2025, the DOT said Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments had been officially recognized across the country.
