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AirAsia launches To the Philippines with Love programme to support disaster victims
AirAsia recently launched its To the Philippines with Love initiative as a way of supporting regional resilience within ASEAN. This particular programme was created to support recovery efforts following recent natural disasters that hit the Philippines, particularly the powerful earthquake that hit Cebu as well as Typhoon Kalmaegi. By playing its part in expressing solidarity with its Southeast Asian neighbour, AirAsia will donate PHP15 for every seat sold from now until 14th January 2026 to support local typhoon relief and recovery programmes. One ASEAN family Capital A chief executive and AirAsia Aviation Group advisor Tony Fernandes said: “Connectivity has always been at the heart of what we do, and it goes beyond flights or routes. As one ASEAN family, in times like these, uniting to help one another is not just the right thing to do, it is who we are. Our hearts are with everyone affected in the Philippines, including our own Allstars. We hope AirAsia’s contribution can bring hope, and help rebuild businesses and enable local residents to get back on their feet.” The donation will be disbursed by AirAsia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the airline group, to support relief and rebuilding projects, prioritising community infrastructure and training and awareness to strengthen the capacity of vulnerable communities to respond to future calamities. AirAsia Foundation executive director Yap Mun Ching added: “At AirAsia Foundation, one of our main priorities involves helping communities rebuild stronger after a disaster. As the focus shifts from emergency relief to recovery in these communities, we leverage our network of social enterprises and trusted partners to connect resources with communities in need, supporting them to restore homes and livelihoods and make a meaningful difference for those affected.” Boosting disaster resilience Among recent recipients of the Foundation’s disaster resilience grants in 2024 is Bike Scouts, a social enterprise with more than a decade of on-ground disaster response experience across the Philippines, to provide critical communication access to communities isolated by typhoons, floods and other natural events. In 2025, AirAsia Foundation approved a grant for Arkomjogja, the implementer of past rebuilding and resilience programmes in Indonesia, to document lessons learnt and disseminate knowledge on the organisation’s community-driven post-disaster recovery model. AirAsia Foundation has a long-standing record of helming AirAsia’s post-disaster campaigns in Asean. Since its establishment in 2012, the Foundation has raised and distributed over US$4 million to fund responses to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines (2013), the Palu tsunami (2018), and the Malaysian floods (2021), among others. The Foundation has also awarded more than US$670,000 in social enterprise grants across seven Asean countries, supporting impactful ventures that address poverty alleviation, promote sustainable livelihoods, and build climate resilience. The donation from AirAsia is in addition to the airline’s ongoing post-earthquake support for government partners through humanitarian flights. In coordination with government authorities, AirAsia transported search-and-rescue teams of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and critical rescue equipment to support emergency relief missions in Cebu.
Philippines boosts tourism ties with Saudi Arabia
The Philippines continues to strengthen its tourism ties with Saudi Arabia as it seeks to gain a larger share of the Middle Eastern travel market. This was announced in a statement released by the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday, 13th November. Earlier this month, the DOT held high-level meetings with Saudia Airlines and Riyadh Air to discuss air connectivity expansion and possible joint tourism promotions. Tourism secretary Christina Frasco declared: “Our shared values of hospitality, family, and faith make the Philippines a natural destination of choice for Saudi travelers. With enhanced air connectivity, we aim to bring the beauty and warmth of our islands even closer to the Saudi people." Key meetings The DOT delegation met separately with Saudia Airlines General Manager Abdulrahman Alabdulwahab and Riyadh Air Vice President for Network Planning and Partnerships Wolfgang Reuss during the recently concluded 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh. The department was represented by undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, who conveyed the Philippine government's desire to enhance accessibility and forge stronger tourism collaboration between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Currently , there are two direct flights connecting the two countries: Riyadh–Manila and Jeddah–Manila. Likewise, the Philippines continues to gain ground among Saudi travelers, as the nation is recognised for its warm hospitality, competitive value, English-speaking service culture, and growing Halal-friendly tourism infrastructure. Saudi nationals enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 30 days, making travel easier and more accessible." Frasco said: “Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets, driven by a young and affluent population with high disposable income for travel. It represents one of our most dynamic and high-value markets in the Middle East." The current state of things In 2024, tourism receipts from the Saudi market reached USD37.86 million, a 46 percent increase from the previous year. Popular destinations for Saudi tourists outside Metro Manila include Cebu, Boracay, Pampanga, Palawan, and Cavite, reflecting a preference for premium, family-friendly beach and resort experiences. Currently, the DOT is implementing various Muslim-friendly and Halal tourism initiatives to help attract more visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority countries. It has increased the number of Halal-certified dining establishments, partnered with major hotel chains like Megaworld Hotels and Resorts to develop Muslim-friendly properties, and launched Marhaba Boracay, the country’s first Muslim-friendly cove. AirAsia Philippines has also become the first airline to offer Halal-certified meals on all routes.
Philippines to host 2026 UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism
The Philippines will be hosting the United Nations Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy next year. This was announced through a statement by the Department of Tourism on Wednesday, 12th November. The Philippines’ appointment reflects its ongoing emergence as a global hub for gastronomy. According to tourism secretary Christina Frasco: “The Philippines is the perfect venue for the 2026 UN Tourism World Gastronomy Forum, where the world can gather to share, taste, and celebrate food as a bridge between cultures. More importantly, this recognition places our country at the forefront of global gastronomy and sustainable tourism.” The 10th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will convene global leaders, chefs, innovators, and advocates from more than 150 countries to advance dialogue and cooperation on food tourism as a driver of inclusive growth, sustainability, and cultural preservation. Previously, the country hosted the first-ever UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu in 2024, producing the Cebu Call to Action on Gastronomy Tourism as a Driver for Sustainable Development at the end of the event. A worthy host In accepting DOT’s proposal to host the forum, UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili cited the Philippines’ commitment to advancing tourism through gastronomy. He said the country’s efforts to strengthen local food systems, empower youth and women, and celebrate culinary heritage position it as an exceptional host for this flagship global event. The DOT also pointed out how gastronomy plays an important role in the growth of tourism in the Philippines, with food and beverage experiences serving as some of the key drivers of visitor spending. Based on the 2024 Philippine Tourism Satellite Account (PTSA), food and beverage services accounted for 8.04 percent of Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA) and comprised 17.1 percent of inbound tourism expenditure. Tourism also employs 6.75 million Filipinos, majority of whom are part of the food, culinary, and hospitality sectors. Frasco said: “From the first regional gastronomy forum in Cebu to our partnership with Michelin and the growing global recognition of Filipino cuisine, our message remains clear: food is not only a feast for the palate but also a force for empowerment and sustainability. Hosting the World Gastronomy Forum in 2026 is a testament to how the Philippines continues to rise as a leader in showcasing the power of food to drive tourism.”
Philippines drops six slots on the Henley Passport Index
The most recent rankings on the global Henley Passport Index shows that the Philippine passport has dropped by six slots to rank 79th overall. Based on the Henley Passport Index released in October, the Philippines was placed 79th since it has visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 64 out of 227 destinations in the world. The Southeast Asian nation’s passport was in 73rd place last year, but now shares its slot with Sierra Leone. The London-based Henley Passport Index is a global ranking of the passports issued by 199 countries based on their citizens’ freedom to travel to other countries without a need for a visa. Other developments in the index Interestingly, the US passport has fallen out of its top 10 list altogether for the first time in 20 years. The North American nation is currently tied with Malaysia in 12th place. As Henley & Partners chair Christian Kaelin explains: “The declining strength of the US passport over the past decade is more than just a reshuffle in rankings: it signals a fundamental shift in global mobility and soft power dynamics. Nations that embrace openness and cooperation are surging ahead, while those resting on past privilege are being left behind.”
Philippines’ Frasco asks investors to look into tourism opportunities in the country
Philippine tourism secretary Christina Frasco called on foreign investors to take advantage of her country's growing tourism opportunities. Speaking at a forum at the World Travel Market (WTM) London on Tuesday, 4th November, Frasco cited government reforms and fiscal incentives that make the country an attractive investment destination. The head of the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) pointed out how tax holidays, enhanced deductions, and import exemptions for priority tourism projects are all covered under the country’s Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE MORE) Law. She declared: “The Philippines has engaged in a transformative development agenda under the Philippine Development Plan which has shifted our country’s growth towards becoming more sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven.” Frasco added that, under this framework, the CREATE MORE Act provides fiscal incentives that promote sustainability, green innovation, job creation, and equitable regional development. Furthermore, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are seen to play a very potent role in accelerating tourism development, be it through airport modernization or tourism infrastructure and destination improvements. At present, the current Philippine administration continues to invest in tourism programs, including community training, the establishment of decent rest areas, and the installation of hyperbaric chambers in major diving and coastal destinations. Sustainability matters in the Philippines During the launch of the Philippine Pavilion at the same event, Frasco put an emphasis on sustainability in tourism amid global economic challenges, climate-induced disasters, and fiscal constraints. She said: “Sustainability for us is not mere theory, it is our lifeline. We pursue tourism that is people-centered and future-centric, knowing that millions depend on our collective ability to protect and strengthen our destinations for generations to come.” The secretary added that the issue has become more relevant as the Philippines continues to face recurring natural calamities.
Philippines’ first roster of Michelin-starred restaurants announced
Nine Filipino restaurants are now part of the Michelin Guide’s elite global roster of starred restaurants. During the awards ceremony held on Thursday, 30th October, in Pasay City, innovative chef Josh Boutwood’s Helm was hailed as the Philippines’ first and only establishment to earn the Two Michelin Star distinction. Eight other restaurants earned the One Michelin Star distinction; namely Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam, and Toyo Eatery. Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec stated at the ceremony that it was high time that Filipino restaurants gained their place in the Guide. Poulennec declared: “Filipino cuisine is bold, cherished, deeply personal: It tells a story of heritage and innovations, where sweet, salty, sour, and umami are harmonized to create flavors that are both comforting and exciting.” He added that the new generation of chefs, many of whom are under 30 years old, is what continues to set the Philippine dining scene apart. Poulennect said: “Some honed their skills abroad, or right here at home, and together, they are shaping a new era for modern Filipino cuisine: innovative yet rooted, contemporary yet unmistakably Filipino.” How do restaurants earn stars? Based on Guide standards, the One Michelin Star distinction is given to restaurants offering high-quality cooking that is worth a stop. On the other hand, a restaurant that earns Two Michelin Stars is one that serves up while a Two Michelin Star is given to those that offer excellent cooking that is worthy of a detour or even a planned excursion. These distinctions were determined by a body of independent inspectors who selected 108 Philippine-based restaurants to be part of the first edition of Michelin Guide Philippines. This first edition covers restaurants within the Greater Manila Area and surrounding provinces as well as Cebu. Poullennec explained that the inspectors all assessed the restaurants following five criteria: quality of the product, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony and balanced flavour, personality of the chef as reflected on the plate, and consistency between visits. 25 new additions to the Bib Gourmand roster Michelin Guide experts also hailed 25 establishments in Manila and Cebu with its special Bib Gourmand distinction which is given to establishments that serve high-quality three-course meals at a reasonable price. These restaurants are: Abaseria Deli & Cafe Bolero Brick CornerCabel COCHI CUR8 Em Hà Nội Esmen Hálong Kumba La Pita Lampara Lasa Los Tacos Manam at the Triangle Morning Sun Eatery Palm Grill (Diliman) Pares Batchoy Food House Pilya's Kitchen Sarsa SOME THAI Taquería Franco The Pig & Palm The Underbelly Your Local
Israel hails the Philippines as a priority source market
A recent statement from the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) points out that the Philippines is considered by the Middle Eastern nation as a priority market. The distinction was made in light of Israel’s ongoing efforts to revitalise its tourism sector which has been adversely impacted by geopolitical conflict. As of press time, Israel has initiated intense promotions and trade engagement in Asia following the renewed travel optimism seen following the signing of the Gaza ceasefire agreement earlier this month. In its statement, the Ministry declared: “Asia has been a key market for Israel with India, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, and South Korea leading. This steady rise shows Asia’s growing confidence and curiosity in Israel’s mix of culture, culinary, eco-conscious, wellness, and adventure travel experiences.” Deepening ties in Asia During its stint at the recently concluded ITB Asia 2025 in Singapore, IMOT officials underscored how their country seeks to deepen ties across Asia’s high-growth travel markets and highlighted the destination’s evolving identity that unites its heritage and modern leisure offerings. According to IMOT Philippines marketing manager Anna Oraiza Aban: “The enthusiasm we’ve seen from Filipino travelers and partners at ITB Asia truly reflects how Israel remains a top bucket-list destination for many Filipinos. With visa-free access for Philippine passport holders, we’re confident that more Filipinos will soon turn their dream trips into reality. The strong interest from the market and travel trade inspires us to continue developing experiences that connect deeply with Filipino travelers, whether through faith, culture, or adventure." IMOT officials added that insights from ITB Asia 2025 will guide its regional strategy through 2026, with emphasis on joint marketing campaigns, airline collaborations, and education programs to build awareness and drive sustainable visitor growth in Asia. Israel received 118,200 tourists in August, a 39 percent increase from July. Between January and August, it recorded 814,000 tourist arrivals, up from 672,400 in the same period last year.
Philippines introduces travelogue on Muslim-friendly tourism
The Philippines launched a three-volume travelogue on Muslim-friendly tourism on Tuesday, 21st October. Malaysian ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Brunei Darussalam ambassador Megawati Manan and the Saudi Arabia Embassy’s economic officer Kamal Jameel Alwidyani attended the launch. The travelogue seeks to capture the multi-billion-dollar market as it serves as a reference material for tourism stakeholders for structured information on cultural context, culinary heritage and travel destinations relevant to Muslim travelers. The first volume encapsulates the historical, cultural and legal foundations of Islam in the Philippines, while the second and third ones feature an overview of the best spots Muslim travelers should eat at and travel. Catering to an increasingly important market At the launch held at the headquarters of the Department of Tourism (DOT), tourism secretary Christina Frasco explained: “The Muslim travelogue expands opportunities for the country. It allows us to penetrate non-traditional markets and casts a wider net in terms of international arrivals. It doesn't just feature one or two destinations, it's countrywide. And it doesn't just feature one or two products, it's fully diversified from our islands, our history, our heritage, our culture, and especially our food and the products of our local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).” In 2024, visitor arrivals from Islamic and Muslim-populated countries stood at 613,329, a 23.7 percent increase from the 496,724 in the previous year. Frasco added: “The arrival growth of the travelers from Muslim majority countries has reached 10 percent this year. So, that reflects an upwards trajectory, and it shows that our strategies to attract Muslim travelers is working.” The bulk of Muslim visitors hail from Malaysia, but more travellers from Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are starting to come to the country. Frasco opined: “We’re hopeful that through these interventions that we’re providing to communicate that the Philippines is open and ready for Muslim travelers, that more and more of them will come.” Thinking strategically Since securing recognition as an emerging Muslim-friendly destination in 2023, the Philippines has been targeting the niche market by strategically expanding its halal tourism portfolio. Over the past year, it has accredited more than a dozen Muslim-friendly hotels in the country. In 2025, the Philippines was ranked eighth among top 20 Muslim-friendly destinations among non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation members in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index list. The country is also working to make its presence felt across different travel and trade events to introduce the country as a good destination option for Muslims. The Philippines will also participate in the 2026 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates to bring in more tourists from the coveted Middle East market. At the 2025 ATM alone, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) generated PHP1.18 billion in sales leads, marking an increase of 233 percent from the previous year.
e-Visas for Chinese nationals visiting the Philippines set to commence in November 2025
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomes the launch of the electronic visas (e-Visas) for Chinese nationals, set to commence in November 2025. “The suspension of the e-Visa system in 2023 had a significant and measurable impact on our ability to meet tourism targets, particularly from one of our strongest pre-pandemic markets. We had long anticipated this outcome and its lasting impact on international arrivals, which is why the Department of Tourism has consistently advocated for the reinstatement of the e-Visa system since its suspension,” Secretary Frasco said. “This development is therefore both necessary and overdue. The relaunch of the e-Visa system directly responds to persistent market demand and industry feedback, and addresses a gap that has constrained our regional competitiveness for nearly three years. We extend our appreciation to the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Beijing for acting on this long-standing call,” she added. Frasco highlighted the initiative's potential to streamline and enhance the travel experience, making it more accessible to visitors. However, given the timing of its implementation, the Department remains cautious in predicting a significant increase in tourist arrivals before the year's end. “While we do not expect immediate surges in arrivals given the timing of implementation and broader external factors, this policy milestone provides a strong signal to the market that the Philippines is taking steps to improve accessibility. It restores confidence, not only among travelers but also among our tourism stakeholders who depend on timely and enabling government action," the DOT chief said. The DOT has consistently advocated for the e-Visa system, acknowledging that its suspension in 2023 severely impacted tourism targets. “The Department of Tourism remains focused on ensuring that reforms translate into real results for our destinations, stakeholders, and tourism workers on the ground. We will continue to work closely with our partners across government and the private sector to align policies with the needs of the market and the aspirations of the Filipino people," she added. Historically, China has been a key source of inbound visitors to the Philippines. Prior to the pandemic, China ranked among the leading sources of international arrivals. The removal of the e-Visa system in 2023 further exacerbated the decline in arrivals initiated by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a significant drop in Chinese visitors, with recovery still underway. As of September 2025, the Philippines has welcomed 203,923 Chinese visitors. The DOT continues to collaborate with partners across public and private sectors to ensure that infrastructure and digital platforms are equipped to accommodate future visitors. Additionally, government initiatives, supported by the DOT, include the launch of a digital nomad visa and the implementation of a VAT refund law for visiting tourists, both designed to enhance the country's attractiveness.
Cebu Pacific hosts launch for Women in Aviation International – Philippines
Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific recently hosted the official launch of Women in Aviation International – Philippines (WAI-PH). WAI-PH is the first organisation in the country that aims to empower women across the aviation industry. According to airline vice-president for engineering and fleet management Shevantha Weerasekera: “Cebu Pacific is proud to support this initiative that empowers women in aviation. It aligns perfectly with our goal of fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone can take flight.” The launch, sponsored by CEB Engineering and Fleet Management (EFM) and the People Department alongside the chapter’s founding officers, comes at a pivotal moment as the Philippine aviation sector modernizes fleets, embraces digital transformation, and addresses workforce gaps. As part of the event, WAI-PH also celebrated Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD), inspiring young Filipinas through hands-on activities; career talks led by female pilots, engineers, mechanics, and cabin crew; aircraft tours; and resource kits from WAI-USA. This initiative gave the participants an early glimpse into the exciting world of aviation, encouraging them to consider careers in the aerospace industry. What exactly does this organisation do for women in the aviation sector? The Philippine chapter is the local arm of Women in Aviation International (WAI), a nonprofit with over 20,000 members worldwide. WAI provides mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities for women in aviation, with a mission to educate and empower women across all sectors of the industry. Looking ahead, WAI-PH aims to expand beyond its founding members Cebu Pacific, Aplus, and Airlink Aviation College. To do so, it will engage other airlines, aviation schools, and maintenance organisations (MROs) nationwide. Through mentorship, leadership programs, and outreach initiatives, Cebu Pacific seeks to inspire more Filipinas to pursue aviation careers and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive industry.
Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT)
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines Philippines
Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu – Philippines
Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu Punta Engaño Mactan Island, Cebu Philippines
24/7 Customer Philippines, Inc.
Philippines
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