URGENT and comprehensive reforms including visitor-friendly policies and infrastructure improvements are needed to address the Philippines’ declining tourism numbers, a business group said on Sunday.
In a statement, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) noted a 2.2-percent drop in international tourist arrivals as of November last year to 5.24 million, which was also down a steep 37 percent compared to the pre-pandemic level in 2019.
“Our nation is blessed with unparalleled natural beauty and resources,” FFCCCII President Victor Lim said.
“Yet, as our Asean neighbors celebrate a robust tourism recovery, the Philippines is charting a dissimilar and concerning course. We are at a pivotal time where decisive, comprehensive reform is not just an option — it is an urgent economic imperative.”
Full-year results have yet to be announced but the 5.6 million reported by the Tourism department as of Dec. 20 was still way off the 5.9 million seen in 2025.
“This Philippine tourism decline is a direct blow to our national economic well-being,” the FFCCCII said.
“Tourism is our economy’s low-hanging fruit, it is the most accessible engine for inclusive economic growth — a sector that directly creates jobs and sustains the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs),” it added.
The challenges that need to be addressed, it said, include the “hassle” factor — congestion and other logistical issues said to be limiting the country’s appeal to “only the most adventurous,” uncompetitive entry procedures and the failure to craft “compelling, holistic experiences.”
The business group proposed the following:
– a competitive visa regime matching policies elsewhere in Asean;
– a “gateways and connectivity revolution” involving the “non-negotiable” modernization of the country’s main gateways and improving interisland travel infrastructure; and
– championing the Philippine experience by training the industry and telling stories highlighting the country’s attractions.
The FFCCCII, Lim said, is ready to partner in the rebuilding of an industry “that is the pride of our people and a powerhouse for our shared prosperity.”
The business group’s statement follows recent criticism of the Tourism department and calls for the replacement of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.
Tourism officials were not immediately available for comment.
Last December, the Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) said that tourism was driving the Philippines’ post-pandemic recovery but also said that the demand was primarily being driven by domestic travelers.
Bottlenecks in transport connectivity, basic utilities, and sustainability infrastructure and digital readiness and visitor facilities need to be addressed if Philippine tourism is to enter a new phase of growth, AMRO said.