Manila: Israel sees the Philippines as a ‘priority’ market in its efforts to revitalize its tourism sector, its tourism ministry said. Intense promotions and trade engagement are underway in Asia following the ‘renewed travel optimism’ seen after the Gaza ceasefire deal was signed this October.
According to Philippines News Agency, during its participation at the recent Internationale Tourismus Borse (ITB) Asia 2025 travel event in Singapore, underscored Israel’s intent to deepen ties across Asia’s high-growth travel markets and highlighted the destination’s ‘evolving identity that unites its heritage and modern leisure offerings.’
Anna Oraiza Aban, marketing manager at IMOT’s Philippine office, expressed enthusiasm for the Philippine market. “The enthusiasm we’ve seen from Filipino travelers and partners at ITB Asia truly reflects how Israel remains a top bucket-list destination for many Filipinos,” she said. She emphasized the advantage of visa-free access for Philippine passport holders, expressing confidence that more Filipinos will soon realize their dream trips to Israel. The strong interest from the market and travel trade inspires the ministry to continue developing experiences that connect deeply with Filipino travelers, whether through faith, culture, or adventure.
In a briefer, IMOT outlined that insights from ITB Asia 2025 will guide its regional strategy through 2026. The focus will be on joint marketing campaigns, airline collaborations, and education programs to build awareness and drive sustainable visitor growth in Asia.
Israel witnessed a significant increase in tourists, with 118,200 visitors in August, marking a 39 percent rise from July. Between January and August, tourist arrivals reached 814,000, up from 672,400 during the same period last year. IMOT highlighted that Asia has been a key market for Israel, with countries like India, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, and South Korea leading the growth. This steady rise indicates Asia’s growing confidence and curiosity in Israel’s diverse travel experiences.
Israel’s Ambassador to Singapore, Eliyahu Vered Hazan, inaugurated the Israel pavilion during the travel event held from Oct. 15 to 17. The IMOT delegation conducted over 100 interactions with tour operators, airlines, and business event planners over three days, generating a strong pipeline of collaborations for the coming years. Key discussions were centered around co-marketing alliances, enhanced air connectivity, and tailored itineraries for Asia’s evolving travelers.
