The Tourism Act of the Philippines is a law that was passed in 2009 to promote the country’s tourism industry. This act aims to increase the number of tourists visiting the Philippines, and to provide employment opportunities for Filipinos in the tourism sector. In this article, we will discuss what the Tourism Act is all about and how it affects the country’s tourism industry.
What is the Tourism Act?
The Tourism Act of 2009, also known as Republic Act No. 9593, is a law that seeks to develop and promote the country’s tourism industry. The act provides for the creation of an agency called the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), which is responsible for developing and managing tourism infrastructure projects throughout the country.
How Does It Affect Philippine Tourism?
The Tourism Act has had a positive impact on Philippine tourism since its implementation. The passage of this law has resulted in an increase in tourist arrivals, which has led to more job opportunities for Filipinos in various sectors such as transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, and entertainment.
Moreover, TIEZA has been instrumental in developing various infrastructure projects such as airports, seaports, highways, and other facilities that are essential in promoting tourism. These developments have made it easier for tourists to travel around the country and have contributed significantly to its growth.
What Are Its Key Provisions?
One key provision of the Tourism Act is the creation of TIEZA, which focuses on developing and managing infrastructure projects related to tourism. Another critical provision is its emphasis on sustainable development that ensures environmental protection while promoting economic growth.
Additionally, this act provides incentives for investors who invest in tourism-related projects by offering tax holidays, income tax exemptions, import duty exemptions on capital equipment or raw materials used in developing tourism facilities or services.
Conclusion
The Tourism Act of the Philippines is a crucial law that has helped to develop and promote the country’s tourism industry. Its emphasis on sustainable development, employment generation, and infrastructure development has led to an increase in tourist arrivals, which is beneficial for the country’s economy. With TIEZA at the forefront of promoting Philippine tourism, we can expect more developments and improvements in the years to come.