DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga Del Norte, August 02 (PIA) – Department of Tourism (DOT)  Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderossa-Abubakar expressed profound gratitude to the local communities of Zamboanga Peninsula for the overwhelming support to ‘Love the Philippines’ branding campaign. 

During the post-SONA activity held in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte on July 26., Usec. Valderossa-Abubakar thanked the people for their overwhelming support in bolstering tourism opportunities in the country.

The Tourism Undersecretary highlighted that this milestone would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of President Ferdinand R.  Marcos Jr. who has consistently shown unwavering trust and confidence 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 emphasized the nation's collective optimism for the future of tourism. The audience was presented with an array of achievements that showcased the tourism industry's indispensable role in contributing to the nation's economic growth.

In 2022, tourism made a substantial impact on the Philippines' Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for approximately 6.2% or around Php 1.38 trillion. This marked a notable 36.9% increase from the previous year's GDP of Php 1 trillion.

Additionally, the concerted efforts of the government and stakeholders resulted in providing more than 5.35 million Filipinos with job opportunities in the thriving tourism sector.

The Philippines' reopening of its borders to all types of travelers in February 2022 sparked a remarkable surge in international tourism. The country welcomed over 2.65 million international tourists throughout the year, surpassing the figures from the pre-pandemic year. This exceeded the previous record of 1.7 million arrivals 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 the year 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. 

The Zamboanga Peninsula has been at the heart of the tourism industry's revival, boasting a captivating tapestry of tourism offerings. Zamboanga del Norte, in particular, has become a prominent destination, with its 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 have all contributed to the region's allure.

The success of the ‘Love the Philippines campaign and the country's 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 to explore its diverse wonders, forging a path towards a brighter and more prosperous future for its people. (KSA/RVC/JPA/ Zamboanga Sibugay)