Okada Manila, Parañaque City
November 11, 2024
“As we gather for the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024, we are presented with an opportunity to shape the future of cruise tourism in a way that brings a lasting benefit to all,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in his keynote message, underscoring that the Philippines and its regional partners are committed to playing a constructive role in the evolving cruise industry that focuses on strengthening infrastructure, forging meaningful partnerships and ensuring that both the cruise industry and local communities can flourish.
During the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 Welcome Reception for delegates and tourism executives held in Parañaque City, the President emphasized the country’s efforts to not only improve ports and destinations but also to preserve the cultural and environmental assets that make them distinctive.
“Our goal is to build an industry that benefits everyone: the cruise lines and its crew members, the local communities and the travelers who seek to explore the rich diversity of our cultures…By streamlining operations, enhancing efficiencies and focusing on sustainable practices, we aim to ensure that the cruise industry grows in a way that is both practical and inclusive,” he stated.
He highlighted that the Philippines, with 40 unique destinations welcoming cruise ships in Southeast Asia, has long been a gateway to rich cultures, citing that the collaboration with regional partners could establish the nation as a hub for cruise tourism — a destination where innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth converge.
“Last year, we took pride at being recognized as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination at the World Cruise Awards. And as well as this year, we are recognized as well as Best Port of Call at the Asia Cruise Awards…These accolades are affirmations of our collective vision — one shared by the Department of Tourism, the Philippine Ports Authority and our local communities — to elevate the Philippines as a premier cruise destination worthy of global recognition,” he continued.
In line with the country’s National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, President Marcos Jr. reaffirmed that the national government worked diligently to modernize the ports, enhance guest experiences and streamline entry processes, noting the recently launched Cruise Visa Waiver that eases access and streamlines travel for international cruise passengers.
“Our goal does not end at welcoming more ships; we aim to create meaningful, lasting connections between travelers and our country. We strive for each cruise call to be a chance for passengers to step into our story, taste the richness of our cuisine, dance to the rhythms of our traditions and carry beautiful memories of the Philippines back with them — memories that linger long after the journey ends,” he added.
He enjoined the representatives of cruise lines, industry leaders and valued partners to deepen partnerships founded on the principles of shared success and mutual aspiration.
The Chief Executive reiterated that the Conference is a great opportunity to forge stronger alliances, exchange insights and build enduring connections that will benefit all the region’s cruise industry for years to come.
“May your participation in the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 be productive and enriching, and may the collaborations we foster here today chart a transformative course for our region’s cruise industry,” President Marcos Jr. ended in his speech.
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