Senator Urges Boost in National Investments in Tourism
During the recent Senate committee on finance hearing concerning the proposed 2026 national budget, a prominent senator called for a significant increase in national investments in tourism. Officials reported that the Philippines is falling behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in developing a competitive tourism sector.
The senator emphasized that now is the crucial moment to prioritize optimizing and improving the country’s tourism industry. “Ang gaganda ng offers papuntang Vietnam. Halimbawa, makakakuha ka ng package like three nights or four nights plus round-trip airfare for the equivalent of 18,000 Pesos. Eh tayo, yung airfare papuntang Siargao is already 18,000 Pesos… hindi talaga tayo competitive kapag dating sa tourism,” he lamented.
Challenges in Domestic Flight Costs Affect Tourism Competitiveness
Community members noted that round-trip tickets to popular international destinations such as Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand are often cheaper than domestic flights within the Philippines. This pricing disparity prompted the senator to file Senate Resolution No. 53, seeking an investigation into the high costs of local flight tickets.
The resolution also calls for a review of the Civil Aeronautics Board’s implementation of rules and regulations. However, local leaders observed that some technical challenges, including airport capacity and runway length, also contribute to the problem.
Infrastructure Investment: A Key to Tourism Growth and Job Creation
The senator highlighted the need for a comprehensive solution that includes investing in tourism infrastructure. “I understand there are some technical reasons, tulad ng airport at yung haba ng runway. So it’s really a comprehensive solution. Sana, maganda rin na mag-invest tayo sa tourism infrastructure because it creates [more] jobs… and in other countries in Asia, it is a big source of income,” he explained.
Officials expressed strong support for allocating more government funds toward infrastructure projects related to tourism, stressing that such investments yield substantial returns in job creation and economic growth.
Expected Positive Impacts of Increased Tourism Investments
According to sources, increasing national investments in tourism as part of the 2026 budget could trigger a wave of benefits. Enhanced infrastructure and competitive pricing are expected to attract more tourists, generate employment opportunities, and ultimately stimulate broader economic development.
The senator concluded by urging government decision-makers to seriously consider these investments, stating, “I think para sa government, sulit po ang investment natin sa infrastructure projects related to tourism. I hope that’s given consideration in the budget.” Community members agree that prioritizing tourism is vital for the country’s future prosperity.
For more news and updates on national investments in tourism, visit Filipinokami.com.
