The Private Sector Advisory Council – Tourism Sector (PSAC – Tourism), a coalition of prominent business leaders spanning various industries, has introduced groundbreaking proposals aimed at revolutionizing the landscape of Philippine tourism. These visionary recommendations, presented during a high-profile meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang, underscore a united commitment to elevate the nation’s status in the global tourism arena.
Spearheading the discussion was PSAC lead convener and Aboitiz Group President and CEO, Sabin Aboitiz, who emphasized the imperative for strategic interventions to position the Philippines as a premier tourist destination. The council collectively stressed the significance of not only attracting tourists but also providing them with compelling reasons to extend their stay, spend significantly, and consider returning in the future.
“Our recommendations are rooted in a collaborative effort to position the Philippines as a premier global tourism destination. By showcasing our unique culture, cuisines, and natural beauty, we believe we can create a holistic and unforgettable experience for tourists,” said Aboitiz.
Joining forces with Aboitiz in this endeavor were key PSAC Tourism members, including Lance Gokongwei of JG Summit Holdings Inc., Lucio Tan III of LT Group, Rene Limcaoco of Hertz Philippines, and Lourdes Josephine Gotianun-Yap of Filinvest Development Corporation.
Drawing inspiration from successful tourism models in India, China, Singapore, and Thailand, PSAC-Tourism proposed a sweeping campaign to showcase the diverse and rich tapestry of native cuisines. In addition, the council advocated for hosting major sporting events to create immersive and engaging experiences for visitors.
In a bid to streamline and expedite entry processes, PSAC-Tourism recommended a temporary 30-day visa-free entry for tourists and suggested exploring third-party service providers to enhance the efficiency of the eVisa system.
Addressing the need for enhanced international connectivity, PSAC-Tourism proposed expediting public-private partnerships (PPP) for regional airports. The goal is to augment international airport capacity, facilitating a broader range of international airlines and routes.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the hotel industry, PSAC-Tourism put forth suggestions to provide enhanced incentives, fostering increased hotel supply to compete with neighboring countries.
Highlighting the significance of a Value-Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists, PSAC-Tourism aimed to attract more visitors and boost tourism receipts.
These forward-looking recommendations align seamlessly with President Marcos’s vision for a consolidated and competitive Philippine tourism system. As the nation looks toward a promising future, PSAC remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate closely with the government to bring these visionary initiatives to fruition and unlock the full potential of Philippine tourism.