DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga Del Norte, August 02 (PIA) – Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderossa-Abubakar of the Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed deep gratitude to the local communities of Zamboanga Peninsula for their tremendous support of the ‘Love the Philippines’ branding campaign.
During the post-SONA activity held in Dapitan City on July 26, Usec. Valderossa-Abubakar conveyed appreciation for the overwhelming support that has bolstered tourism opportunities in the country.
She attributed this milestone to the tireless efforts of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who consistently demonstrated unwavering trust in the DOT Secretary and prioritized tourism as a crucial pillar for the country’s economic progress and recovery, leading the industry to its current state of success.
Addressing a gathering of stakeholders, government officials, and tourism enthusiasts, Undersecretary Valderossa-Abubakar highlighted the nation’s collective optimism for the future of tourism. The audience was presented with an array of achievements showcasing the tourism industry’s indispensable role in contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
In 2022, tourism significantly impacted the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP), contributing approximately 6.2% or around Php 1.38 trillion. This marked a noteworthy 36.9% increase from the previous year’s GDP of Php 1 trillion.
Moreover, government and stakeholder efforts resulted in providing more than 5.35 million Filipinos with job opportunities in the thriving tourism sector.
The Philippines reopened its borders to all types of travelers in February 2022, leading to a remarkable surge in international tourism. The country welcomed over 2.65 million international tourists throughout the year, surpassing figures from the pre-pandemic year by an additional one million visitors. Most recently, the nation celebrated the achievement of reaching 3 million foreign arrivals, representing an estimated tourism revenue of Php 212 billion for 2022.
The domestic tourism sector also experienced a resurgence, witnessing a staggering 102 million trips recorded throughout the country. The robust performance of the industry translated to tourism receipts reaching an impressive Php 1.87 trillion.
Zamboanga Peninsula played a vital role in the tourism industry’s revival, offering a captivating tapestry of tourism offerings. Zamboanga del Norte, particularly, became a prominent destination with natural beauty showcased by the pristine landscapes of Dakak. The rich historical trails of national hero Jose Rizal, the delightful culinary fair of the sardine-capital, Dipolog City, and the vibrant cultures of numerous indigenous communities all contributed to the region’s allure.
The success of the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign and the resurgent tourism industry underscore the nation’s determination and resilience amid the challenges posed by the pandemic. With an optimistic outlook for the future, the Philippines continues to beckon travelers from all corners of the globe, inviting them to explore its diverse wonders and forging a path towards a brighter and more prosperous future for its people. (KSA/RVC/JPA/ Zamboanga Sibugay)