The Department of Tourism (DOT) is confident that the Philippines is ready for open skies. Discussions on this agreement amongst the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) member countries could finally lead to the signing of the policy around April 2010.
Under the ASEAN agenda, which covers economic recovery plan until 2015, the open skies pact focuses on the liberalization of air space between member countries, including the lifting of tariffs and other add-on costs. This new agreement will allow regional air carriers to make unlimited flights among the group’s 10 capital cities. For the Philippines, this entices more airlines to land in the country, increasing flights and providing more options for passengers.
“We are taking positive steps towards the signing of the agreement, as the benefits of air space liberalization for the country signal a region-wide increase in cooperation and tourism activity,” Tourism Secretary Ace Durano noted.
The move promises to re-energize the stalled 2003 ASEAN open-skies framework, which includes phased plans for liberalizing intra-ASEAN freight and passenger air services by 2015. Industry analysts are convinced the deal also promises to boost regional tourism, trade, and aviation-related investments.
Durano added, “The sealing of this deal strengthens not only tourism but more so, economic relations between the country and our ASEAN counterparts. We see this as a welcome development, contributing to the growth of the airline industry through increased availability for more passengers.”
Growth in ASEAN neighbours
Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr. said, “Our neighbours in the region have seen the benefits of the open skies agreement, and we hope to replicate the same success here in the country.” (more…)
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