DOT allocates P6 billion to boost domestic tourism amid COVID-19 threat

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is allocating P6 billion to bolster the country's tourism industry, with a significant focus on domestic travel, in response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 threat.

This substantial fund aims to strengthen public-private partnerships and will cover international and domestic promotions, infrastructure development, and regional tourism initiatives.

Specific allocations include P421 million for a new domestic travel campaign, P725 million for international market development, and P467 million for creating engaging content targeted at unaffected countries.

The DOT will also waive participation fees for international travel fairs until June 30, representing a P11.2 million direct support to the private sector.

Further investments are earmarked for airport improvements, with P1.6 billion for night rating of secondary airports and P2.28 billion for resilient infrastructure development in coordination with LGUs.

Training programs for industry stakeholders on COVID-19 preparedness and response will receive P85 million, and P400 million will assist LGUs in developing their tourism master plans.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat emphasized that the DOT's strategy is to promote domestic tourism due to the expected decrease in international arrivals and existing travel bans.

She reassured the public that traveling within the Philippines remains safe, citing data from the Department of Health and confirming that local government units are prepared with established protocols.