Frasco cites PBBM's programs for tourism industry

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Friday that policies and programs that would upgrade critical tourism infrastructure and capacity building for the workforce and entrepreneurs are underway.

In his speech read by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco during the 34th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) opening ceremony at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City, Marcos said his administration’s whole-of-nation efforts are aimed at leveraging tourism’s strengths and competitive advantages to solidify the sector’s economic position in this age of “revenge travel.”

“As you continue to invest your energies and passion into your trade and craft, you can be assured of this administration’s fervent support for the entire tourism industry,” the President said, committing to creating a wholesome climate and stable foundation by fostering more business-friendly environment, as well as improving the security and the rule of law.

Marcos also acknowledged the vital contributions of small business players and the local government units in the robust performance of Philippine tourism over the years, providing livelihood opportunities to more than 5 million Filipinos.

“Of course, we must not overlook our local government units, the private sector, especially our micro, small and medium enterprises, whose efforts are just as indispensable to the vibrant performance of our tourism industry across the country,” he said.

Marcos also lauded the tireless efforts of the Department of Tourism under Frasco and the Philippine Tour Operators Association, Inc. (PHILTOA), calling them “key players of the industry” and the government’s “staunch partners throughout this nation-building journey.”

In her separate