Manila: The Department of Tourism (DOT) will focus on building a ‘globally competitive’ tourism industry that generates more jobs for Filipinos, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Monday. She made the reaffirmation in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to boost efforts to bring jobs to the four percent of Filipinos who remain unemployed.
According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco emphasized the task of finding opportunities for the remaining four percent of the labor force, highlighting tourism as a sector ready to meet that challenge. “As the President mentioned, the task ahead is to find opportunities for the remaining four percent of our labor force-and tourism stands ready to help meet that challenge,” she stated.
Frasco expressed a commitment to developing a tourism industry that is not only globally competitive but also aims to uplift the lives of every Filipino through dignified and sustainable livelihood. She pointed out that under the Marcos administration, tourism has grown into a ‘major economic pillar that empowers communities and creates jobs.’
Currently, the tourism sector employs 6.75 million Filipinos, accounting for 13.83 percent of the country’s total employment. In addition to this, Frasco noted that more than 10 million people benefit from the industry through indirect employment.
The DOT plans to continue collaborating with other agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry and the Small Business Corporation, to provide loans for micro, small, and medium enterprises in tourism. Additionally, the Department of Migrant Workers will work on the reintegration of overseas Filipino workers into the tourism workforce.
Frasco also welcomed President Marcos’ call to develop the Halal industry, stating that the tourism segment of this sector is already part of the DOT’s portfolio that they are working to strengthen. She further highlighted the President’s directive to enhance tourist experiences through infrastructure projects.
“The President’s dedication to addressing critical issues such as infrastructure development, climate change, and, most importantly, peace and security, will significantly bolster the collective aspirations of the tourism industry,” Frasco remarked.
