Manila: Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco on Tuesday said it may be time to revisit the deregulation of airline ticket pricing as lawmakers probed soaring domestic airfares and tourism infrastructure gaps.

According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco told the Senate Committee on Tourism that the airline industry is deregulated under a 2011 executive order and international agreements. She emphasized the need to revisit regulations concerning airline ticket pricing. Frasco also mentioned that the Department of Tourism (DOT) has raised the issue with the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), suggesting the publication of a monthly airfare index to manage public expectations and enforce suggested price ceilings more strictly.

Frasco stated, "Without a strict implementation of this matter and without revisiting the deregulation of the airline industry, it is very difficult on the part of the Department of Tourism to manage a matter that is simply not within its mandate."

The remarks were made during an inquiry by the Senate Committee on Tourism, chaired by Senator JV Ejercito, into the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028. Ejercito highlighted tourism's economic significance but pointed out weak infrastructure and connectivity as major obstacles, noting the high airfares to local destinations.

Senator Erwin Tulfo supported the call for a clearer tourism roadmap, stressing the importance of infrastructure, affordability, and safety to make local travel competitive. He remarked on the significance of tourism to the economy while acknowledging existing challenges, especially in infrastructure and safety.

The Senate inquiry also examined proposed measures to make tourism sites more accessible for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, and the development of a long-term master plan to upgrade airports, seaports, and transport hubs.