Manila: The Philippines and Cambodia are set to enhance their collaboration in the tourism sector following the signing of a new agreement aimed at increasing joint promotions and marketing of tourist destinations. This development comes after Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and Cambodian Minister of Tourism Huot Hak signed the Implementation Program for 2025-2028, which builds upon an existing memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation between the two countries.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has indicated that the agreement includes several key initiatives such as the exchange of tourism professionals, sharing of best practices in tourism development, joint promotional and marketing efforts, human resource development and training programs, and collaboration in tourism fairs and exhibitions. A Joint Working Group will be responsible for overseeing the execution of this agreement.
Tourism Secretary Frasco expressed optimism about the renewed partnership, noting that it aligns with the Philippines’ National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028. She highlighted that this collaboration supports the country’s goals of expanding its tourism market and strengthening regional partnerships. In 2024, the Philippines recorded 4,268 visitor arrivals from Cambodia, according to DOT data.
Frasco emphasized the shared cultural heritage and tourism offerings of the two nations, including historical sites, pristine beaches, islands, and rich wildlife. She underscored the importance of tourism in driving economic growth and described the renewed partnership as a significant step toward greater collaboration and mutual advancement in their tourism sectors.
The agreements were presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet in Malaca±ang. The Marcos administration has been actively strengthening international tourism linkages through agreements with countries such as Brunei Darussalam, Japan, Thailand, and Qatar.
