According to information released by the Department of Tourism (DOT) on July 12, 2024, in the first half of 2024, the Philippines is expected to receive Revenue earned reached Php 282.1 billion (US$4.84 billion), an increase of 32.8% compared to the same period last year.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the significant growth is "a testament to the Marcos administration's unremitting efforts to revive the tourism industry."
"The 32.8% increase compared to last year not only demonstrates the Philippines' growing appeal as a top travel destination, but also Highlighting the concrete benefits that tourism brings to our economy and our people
"Revenue generated through tourism translates directly into greater opportunities and improved livelihoods for Filipinos, strengthening the industry critical role in our nation’s progress.”
According to DOT data, as of July 10, the Philippines has received 3,173,694 inbound tourists this year, of which 2,937,293 (92.6 %) are foreigners.
South Korea remains the country's largest source market of tourists, with 824,798 tourists, accounting for 26.0% of the total.
Followed by the United States with 522,667 tourists, accounting for 16.5%, China with 199,939 tourists, accounting for 6.3%, and Japan with 188,805 tourists, accounting for 6.0%, and Australia had 137,391 tourists, accounting for 4.3%.
Frasco said: "In the second half, we expect these numbers to increase, not only in terms of revenue, but more importantly, in terms of Increase in the number of Filipinos employed in tourism-related industries.”
"A number of projects aimed at improving the country's connectivity and improving convenience for our visitors are also in the pipeline to sustain the good work.”