MANILA — Little by little, Philippine tourism is finding its footing again.
As of December 20, the country has recorded 5.6 million foreign visitor arrivals—nearly matching the total it posted in 2024. While the figure is still below the record-breaking numbers seen before the pandemic in 2019, the Department of Tourism (DOT) believes brighter days are ahead.
And one market, in particular, is key to that hope: China.
China’s Return Could Change Everything
The DOT is optimistic that 2026 will mark a turning point, especially with the resumption of the Philippine e-Visa for Chinese tourists, which began in November.
Right now, China ranks sixth among the country’s top tourist sources, with 262,144 arrivals—trailing behind South Korea, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada.
According to the DOT, China’s lower ranking was “largely influenced” by visa disruptions, security concerns, and limited flight options.
A Critical First Step
Tourism Attaché to China Ireneo Reyes said the return of the e-Visa system sends a powerful message.
“The e-Visa resumption is a critical step forward,” Reyes said. “It’s a clear signal that the Philippines is open, ready, and eager to welcome our Chinese friends.”
He admitted the timing came late in the year, meaning its full impact won’t be felt immediately. But he’s confident the change will be seen soon.
“We expect a more visible impact beginning the first quarter of 2026,” he added.
What Slowed the Comeback
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco earlier explained that the suspension of the e-Visa program—combined with a weaker Korean won—contributed to the drop in arrivals from China and South Korea, once the country’s top tourism markets.
Another challenge remains in the skies.
The DOT said flights between China and the Philippines are operating at only 45 percent of pre-pandemic levels, limiting seat availability and travel options.
Still, talks are ongoing.
The department confirmed it is working closely with airlines and aviation partners to gradually restore routes and increase capacity.
“With China being one of the world’s largest outbound travel markets,” the DOT said, “improving air connectivity presents a major opportunity.”
Tourism Stays Strong Despite Challenges
Even with budget constraints and market-specific hurdles, Philippine tourism has shown resilience.
In 2024, the sector generated ₱3.86 trillion in tourism receipts and supported 6.75 million tourism-related jobs, providing livelihoods for millions of Filipinos.
The DOT remains hopeful.
With better access, stronger safety measures, and improved connectivity, the agency believes the return of Chinese tourists will help lift overall arrival numbers—and push Philippine tourism closer to a full recovery.
For now, the message is clear:
The comeback is underway—and the best may still be ahead.
