The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) forecasts that around 127 cruise ship calls will be coming to the country in 2026.
In a statement issued yesterday, 16th December, DOT officials pointed out that this reflects global cruise operators’ sustained engagement with the country.
The initial figure comes as the Philippines strengthens collaboration with cruise stakeholders to boost the sector’s recovery and growth.
According to tourism secretary Christina Frasco: “Cruise tourism, for us in the Philippines, is not only about arrivals. It is about the entire Philippine experience, the jobs created, the businesses sustained, and the communities empowered.”
Until the end of 2025, the DOT expects 136 cruise calls to bring a total of 43,369 passengers to Philippine shores, with Manila continuing to serve as the country’s leading cruise gateway, followed by Puerto Princesa and Boracay.
Better sectoral growth through regional cooperation
At the Philippine-hosted Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC) Annual Regional Meeting on Monday, 15th December, Frasco said Manila will also promote stronger regional cooperation that would guide the next phase of Asia’s cruise tourism growth.
Collaboration among destinations, ports, and cruise lines, she said, is essential to ensuring that the growth remains sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to host communities.
The secretary said: “If there is one lesson the ACC teaches, it is this: no destination succeeds alone. Collaboration across ports, cruise lines, and governments ensures every traveler’s experience is seamless, enjoyable, and meaningful.”
At the same time, she pointed out that the Philippines will continue engaging cruise lines as partners in itinerary development, strengthening the exchange of market insights and operational best practices, and aligning the full visitor journey across destinations.
Frasco said: “Asia’s cruise market is growing rapidly, with millions of travelers seeking unique experiences across our diverse shores. This meeting allows us to chart a course for cruise tourism that supports communities, generates jobs, and strengthens connections across the region,” she said.
As of press time, close to 7,000 cruise visa waivers have been issued, easing travel for cruise passengers and reinforcing the country’s accessibility.
Port readiness is also being advanced through the completed cruise terminal in Jubang, Dapa, Surigao del Norte, ongoing construction in Coron, Aklan, Camiguin, and Puerto Galera, and continued upgrades at Manila South Harbor.
In 2026, Frasco said the government will reconstitute the Cruise Tourism Development Committee to strengthen inter-agency coordination and implement the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy.
