Philstar
High domestic airfares hit
Senator Erwin Tulfo is advocating for reduced domestic flight prices to enhance the competitiveness of Philippine tourism against neighboring Southeast Asian nations.
He observed that domestic airfares frequently exceed the cost of round-trip international tickets to destinations like Hong Kong or Taiwan, discouraging domestic travel.
The Philippines ranked lowest in international tourist arrivals among Southeast Asian countries from January to August 2025, with only 3.96 million visitors, compared to Malaysia's 28.24 million and Thailand's 21.88 million.
Tulfo believes that high domestic air travel costs, despite the country's numerous beautiful destinations, significantly impede the development of its tourism potential.
He also suggested creating direct flights to other provinces and promoting lesser-known regions.
Senator Loren Legarda mentioned that the Department of Tourism is collaborating with the Departments of Transportation and Trade, the Civil Aeronautics Board, and the Philippine Competition Commission to address rising airline prices.
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