Philippine Tourism Surpasses Target by Over 650,000 Arrivals: 7.7M Targets

The DOT disclosed that the international visitor receipts for 2023 totaled an impressive P482.54 billion, a figure that not only surpassed the previous year but also reached pre-pandemic revenue levels of 2019. With an eye on the future, the DOT is setting ambitious targets for 2024, aiming for a step closer to pre-pandemic arrival numbers with a goal of 7.7 million arrivals. Secretary Frasco assured, "What I can assure you is that we will push as hard as we can and fully activate our convergences with other government agencies in order to breach this target and bring us closer to pre-pandemic numbers even as we grapple with many forces beyond our control, globally, and locally." Expressing gratitude, Frasco acknowledged the global appreciation for the Philippines in 2023, highlighting the country's recognition as the World's Leading Beach and Dive Destination, Asia's Best Cruise Destination, and one of the few countries worldwide honored as a Global Tourism Resilience awardee. The acknowledgment reflects the collective efforts and global appeal that continue to position the Philippines as a premier travel destination.