TOURISM Secretary Maria Bernardita "Dita" Angara-Mathay convened the heads of attached agencies to align tourism initiatives with the infrastructure and development agenda of the Marcos administration.
The meeting, held at the Department of Tourism Central Office in Makati on Thursday, focused on strengthening coordination and advancing priority programs to boost tourism investments.
Among those present were leaders from key tourism agencies, including the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Tourism Promotions Board, and Intramuros Administration.
Also in attendance were officials from the National Parks Development Committee, Duty Free Philippines Corporation, Philippine Retirement Authority, Nayong Pilipino Foundation, and the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving.
The gathering underscored the importance of a unified approach in implementing tourism strategies amid evolving global challenges.
“I joined the Department at a time when the global environment remains uncertain and increasingly complex,” Mathay said.
“These conditions call for clarity of purpose, strong coordination, and steady leadership across all levels of the Department,” she added.
Angara-Mathay emphasized that tourism continues to play a crucial role in driving inclusive economic growth in the country.
“Tourism remains a vital pillar of inclusive economic growth, and our collective responsibility is to ensure that the sector continues to support livelihoods, strengthen enterprises, and create opportunities for our communities,” she said.
She also called on all personnel to uphold professionalism and collaboration as the department works to sustain the growth and resilience of the Philippine tourism industry.