Direct connection to boost Indian arrivals
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Philippines branded 135 radio cabs in New Delhi to raise awareness about the lesserknown places, as well as the popular ones. H.E. Ma.Teresita C.Daza, Ambassador, Republic of Philippines informs of India’s increasing import
QHow has tourism from India fared this year? There has been a vast growth in tourism from India as compared to last year. 2015 saw 74,824 Indian arrivals while between January to July this year, we’ve received about 53,498 tourists. There has been a growth of 25.41 per cent over 2015 and with this, India’s position as one of our source markets has improved to 12th. In July 2016 itself, there were 9202 Indians with an increase of 65.35 per cent in comparison to July 2015. Our target is to achieve the 100,000-mark in 2017. Q What has led to the growth in Indian arrivals?
There has actually been a noticeable increase in MICE movements leading to the growth. Around 2,900 people have come to the country for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions and is an increasingly potential segment. We are also encouraging group travel and to foster this, there is an ongoing discussion for visaon-arrival for groups. Another area that has immense potential is the weddings segment.
QWhat is going to be instrumental in the Philippines achieving the target of 100,000 Indian arrivals?
There is no dearth of white-sand beaches in the Philippines but that’s not all we have to offer. There are ample options to suit any kind of traveller, be it a quiet, leisurely holiday or one that’s packed with adventure. Destinations like Manila and Cebu have always been very popular but this year, we are highlighting Palawan, Davao, Boracay, to name a few. There is an active nightlife and the products are as diverse as the country; we even have a relatively open visa process. But what we currently lack is direct flights to and from India, which is also in pipeline. Once that is implemented, the numbers are only going to grow since connectivity plays a chief role in attracting tourists.
QTell us about some of the newer initiatives that will be introduced soon?
The new government that has recently come to power is keen on reforming several agenda in the country and has been trying to increase peace and order. It is expected that the administration will make a few tweaks to the campaign for which more details will be revealed most likely in the first half of 2017.
Once a new theme has been finalised, it will help in directing both our representatives here and the embassy. Of course, ‘More Fun in the Philippines will continue to be used until the time the new marketing strategy comes into play.
The new administration will make a few tweaks to the campaign for which more details will be revealed most likely in the first half of 2017. Of course, ‘ More Fun in the Philippines will continue to be used until the time the new marketing strategy comes into play. H.E. Ma. Teresita C. Daza Ambassador, Republic of Philippines