The Philippines is a beautiful archipelago located in Southeast Asia. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture.
The country has become a popular tourist destination over the years, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at how much the Philippines earns from tourism.
Tourism in the Philippines
Tourism has become one of the major industries in the Philippines. The country has a lot to offer, from pristine beaches to historical sites and cultural events. According to data from the Department of Tourism (DOT), there were around 8.26 million foreign visitors in 2019, generating approximately $9.31 billion in revenue.
Top Tourist Destinations
The Philippines has a lot of beautiful places that are worth visiting. Some of the top tourist destinations in the country include:
- Boracay Island
- Palawan Island
- Cebu City
- Bohol Island
- Manila City
- Davao City
These destinations are known for their natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture.
Tourism Revenue
Tourism is a significant contributor to the Philippine economy. According to DOT data, tourism revenue accounted for around 12.7% of the country’s GDP in 2019. The industry also provided employment opportunities for around 5 million Filipinos.
In terms of revenue, South Korea was the top source market for Philippine tourism in 2019, followed by China and Japan. Other top markets include Taiwan, USA, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Singapore and Malaysia.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the tourism industry in the Philippines, as it did in most countries around the world. In 2020, tourist arrivals in the country dropped by 83.97% compared to the previous year, with a total of only 1.3 million foreign visitors.
This decline in tourism has resulted in a significant loss of revenue for businesses that rely on this industry. The Philippine government has implemented various measures to help alleviate the impact of COVID-19 on tourism, such as providing financial assistance and promoting domestic tourism.
Conclusion
Tourism is an essential industry for the Philippines, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and providing employment opportunities for its citizens. Although COVID-19 has caused a significant drop in tourist arrivals and revenue, it is expected that the industry will recover once travel restrictions are lifted. The country’s beautiful destinations and warm hospitality will continue to attract visitors from all over the world, making it an important player in the global tourism market.