DOT: 2024 tourist arrivals surpass previous records

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) on Wednesday said that more tourists visited the Philippines between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.

According to the agency's tourist arrival data, 5,949,350 foreign visitors arrived in the country by the end of 2024: 91.42 percent are foreigners, accounting for 5,438,967, while the remaining 8.58 percent, or 510,383, are Filipinos residing abroad.

The total in 2024 was 9.15 percent greater than in 2023, consisting of 5,450,557 tourists.

«The growth in our visitor arrivals and receipts in 2024 underscores the resilience of the Philippine tourism industry and the collective efforts of our stakeholders,» Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

«This success is a testament to our unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty, culture, and hospitality that make the Philippines truly unique on the global stage,» she added.

South Korea retained its position as the leading source of international visitors, with arrivals up to 1,574,152 from 1,455,977 in 2023, which represented more than 26.46 percent of the overall market share.

«The growth of Korean tourists to the Philippines can be attributed to the effective strategic marketing initiatives, enhanced air connectivity, and strengthened cultural exchanges, particularly as the two nations marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations,» Frasco said.

The United States placed second with 1,076,663 visitors in 2024, up from 1,041,305 in 2023.

American tourists continued to flock to the Philippines, enticed mostly by the country's magnificent beaches, world-class hospitality, the chance to spend time with family and friends, and new experiences.

Japan, meanwhile, emerged as a standout market, with arrivals up 22.84 percent to 444,528 from 361,862 the previous year.

Frasco said these figures demonstrate the country's rising popularity as a convenient, culturally rich and accessible destination.