Politics · Philippines Bureau
Ejercito challenges DOT to enhance tourism amid airport access concerns
A Senate finance committee chairman has urged the Department of Tourism to intensify efforts to attract international visitors, particularly by addressing airport accessibility issues that could undermine the sector's growth.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Sen. JV Ejercito, who chairs the Senate Committee on Finance, issued a pointed challenge to the Department of Tourism during budget deliberations Monday, calling for more aggressive strategies to boost visitor arrivals to the Philippines.
During a Senate hearing on the proposed 2027 DOT budget, Ejercito highlighted airport accessibility as a critical concern that must be addressed to remain competitive in attracting foreign tourists to the country.
The senator's remarks underscore ongoing debates about infrastructure gaps that could hamper the tourism industry's recovery and expansion. Airport connectivity and ease of access have been identified as key factors influencing international visitor decisions when choosing between regional destinations.
The DOT is expected to respond to these concerns as lawmakers continue deliberations on the agency's budget allocation for the coming fiscal year. The issue reflects broader concerns within the Senate about ensuring the Philippines maximizes its tourism potential amid regional competition from other Southeast Asian nations.