Manila: The Philippines is poised to welcome 127 cruise ship visits in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to rejuvenate its cruise tourism sector, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced on Tuesday. This development underscores the ongoing engagement and commitment of cruise operators to the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, the projected number of cruise ship calls is part of a broader strategy to enhance collaboration with cruise stakeholders, thereby facilitating sector recovery and growth. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that cruise tourism in the Philippines is not solely about the number of arrivals but also about enriching the overall Philippine experience, creating job opportunities, sustaining businesses, and empowering local communities.
The DOT anticipates 136 cruise calls by the end of 2025, expected to bring around 43,369 passengers to the Philippines. Manila remains the primary cruise gateway, with Puerto Princesa and Boracay following suit. At the Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC) Annual Regional Meeting hosted by the Philippines, Frasco highlighted the importance of regional cooperation to guide the next phase of cruise tourism growth in Asia.
Frasco stressed that collaboration among destinations, ports, and cruise lines is crucial for sustainable, inclusive growth that benefits host communities. She noted that the ACC underscores a vital lesson: successful destinations thrive through partnerships across ports, cruise lines, and governments to ensure travelers have seamless, enjoyable, and meaningful experiences.
The Philippines plans to continue engaging cruise lines as partners in itinerary development, market insight exchange, and aligning visitor journeys across destinations. The rapidly growing Asian cruise market presents an opportunity to support communities, generate jobs, and strengthen regional connections.
Frasco also highlighted Manila’s commitment to strengthening cruise tourism policy and infrastructure. As of the latest update, nearly 7,000 cruise visa waivers have been issued, simplifying travel for cruise passengers and enhancing the country’s accessibility.
Efforts to improve port readiness include the completion of a cruise terminal in Jubang, Dapa, Surigao del Norte, ongoing construction in Coron, Aklan, Camiguin, and Puerto Galera, and continued enhancements at Manila South Harbor. In 2026, the government plans to reconstitute the Cruise Tourism Development Committee to bolster inter-agency coordination and implement the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy.
