Philippines Tourist Arrivals for the First Two Months, Up by 5.8%

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The country received a total of 520,256 visitors for the first two months of the year, registering a 5.8 percent gain over the same period last year. February posted a higher growth rate at 11% than January’s 1.4% on account of the upsurge of visitors from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan for the Chinese New Year.

The East Asian region continued to be the primary source of arrivals contributing 49% or 254,396 to the aggregate. Four of the top five markets come from this region: Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, with Korea reflecting the highest growth rate at 13.2% and contributing the bulk of arrivals from this area. The English as a Second Language (ESL) program has greatly influenced the growth of this Asian market. This has also encouraged huge investments in ESL learning centers as business ventures between Koreans and Filipinos.

The other top generating country is the United States which contributed 20% to the total. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Joseph H. Durano said that these countries have always figured as primary sources in view of the attractiveness and value-for-money offerings of the islands as well as the warmth and friendliness of people. These have consistently been noted in the passenger exit surveys, not to mention the intensified promotional efforts of DOT and the travel industry on these markets. Improved access and the increase of budget airlines have likewise spawned more volume and frequent travel.

The North American region held up as second biggest source of arrivals with its share of 23% or 117,849 to the total. The bulk of these arrivals or 101,668 come from the United States, securing its place as the country’s second market with a 4.0% increase.

The ASEAN also sustained high traffic accounting for 34,725 guests or up by 17%. Relaxed entry formalities and other collaborative regional marketing initiatives, proximity as well as increased airline frequencies have been strong factors contributing to this area’s continued growth.

Secretary Durano added that the DOT is confident of attaining the 3.1 million arrival target by year-end with the various intensive promotional activities done with the local industry to further stimulate travel from the traditional as well as new markets. The Central Philippines Super Region infrastructure projects to ensure seamless travel within the archipelago and the sustained product development efforts also serve to further improve the country’s competitiveness as a major tourist destination.