2017 DOT campaign video

THE PHILIPPINE TOURISM

With a population of about 103 million, the Philippines is one of the world’s largest archipelagic nations and mega biodiverse countries in the world. It comprises about 7,107 islands, which are clustered into the three major island groups of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The Philippines remains a safe and fun destination for all tourists. Both domestic and international transports in the Philippines remain available and continue to be operational. The Philippines has a great majority of touristic offerings, whether one is looking for natural wonders, historical landmarks, culture and tradition, arts and crafts, shopping, recreation and entertainment, among many others. Tourism activities continue in the country’s different regions, each with its own feature destinations and products.

Travel and tourism are important sectors for the Philippine economy. Philippine tourism kicked off the year 2017 with increased in arrivals. Inbound visitors in January 2017 registered growth of 16.48% compared in January 2016.

Visitors statistics

Most visitors arriving to Philippines were from the following countries of nationality:

In 2016, India grabbed the 12th slot in source market of the Philippines for tourism receipts and has managed to retain the position thus far. Around 90,816 Indian nationals visited the Philippines in 2016 resulting in an increase of 21.37 percent in growth of Indian arrivals in the country.

In January 2017 alone, India registered a growth rate of 31.84% compared in January 2016 with 11,805 arrivals. DOT is hoping that the number of Indian arrivals in the country exceed the 100,000 mark in 2017.

The Philippines has instituted the 14-day free visa for holder of AJACSSUK visas (USA, Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen, Singapore, and UK), from all international airports and seaports in the country.

TRAVEL TIPS IN THE PHILIPPINES

• Dress for the weather – hot! Light clothing is ideal year-round, and absolutely during the hot and dry months from March to May. Temperatures average from 78°F/25°C to 90°F/32°C. Mean humidity is at 77%. 
• When shopping in a public market, it is perfectly acceptable to haggle for the cheapest price.
• English is most widely spoken next to Filipino/Tagalog, the national language. Learning the basic local phrases may come in handy.
• Comfortable yet sturdy footwear is best, as travelling the islands will often involve some walking.
• When headed to the remote areas, come prepared with an insect repellant and even your own water in handy containers. Always have the island map with you.
• Prepare to hop in a jeepney, tricycle, or pedicab – exotic modes of land transport that are the most commonly available for going around. Always bring loose change when taking public transport.
• Casual clothing is acceptable inside churches and business offices. Dining establishments and hotels impose no dress code but shorts and slippers are deemed improper.
• For formal occasions, the traditional Barong Tagalog- the Philippine national costume for men-is just as suitable as the suit-and-tie.
• When travelling by car, be mindful of the number coding ordinance for vehicles that is being implemented strictly in selected cities.
• Do not miss visiting during the summer, when there is a concentration of major festivals, celebrations, and events.
• Adopt to local customs; accept local differences. The Filipinos are divided culturally into the regions, each with its own distinct traditions.
• Tipping is expected for many services. The standard amount is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that include a service charge, which is often 10% of the total amount.
• Be sure to sample the endless variety of native delicacies and local cuisine, which differ in every region.
• For tourist information and assistance, get in touch with the Department of Tourism or any of its accredited offices nationwide.

Sources:

http://www.tourism.gov.ph/pages/industryperformance.aspx
http://www.visitmyphilippines.com
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/visitor-arrivals-in-2016-fall-short-of-govts-6-m-target/