State Dining Room, Malacañan Palace
January 18, 2024

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. convened with key officials from the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to discuss tourism updates and recommendations in a meeting at the State Dining Room in Malacañan Palace.

The PSAC shared its progress reports on ongoing tourism-related projects, showcasing its commitment to fostering sustainable development and cultural preservation.

A presentation on key recommendations to augment the region’s allure and stimulate economic growth was also on the agenda. Notably, the PSAC underscored innovative tourism strategies encouraging visitors to ‘Visit, Stay, Spend, Return,’ along with initiatives to simplify visa application processes.

Another focal point is the development of a vibrant and diverse food scene to attract culinary enthusiasts and showcase the region’s rich gastronomic offerings. As the popularity of Southeast Asian cuisine is a recent phenomenon, the PSAC Tourism Group recommended ‘Create Local and Global’ food events focused on Philippine cuisine. These can include national and regional food festivals and food congresses. Another potential program is to actively hoist and engage with local and international food influencers.

Furthermore, the potential of sports tourism was explored, with discussions centering around leveraging sporting events to draw tourists, as Puerto Princesa is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines”.

Additionally, strategies to enhance the region’s presence on social media platforms were addressed, recognizing the pivotal role of social media in destination marketing and engagement.

The implications of these recommendations are vast, positioning the Philippines as a competitive player in the global tourism landscape, with anticipated outcomes including economic growth, cultural exchange and sustainable development.

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