MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has struck a powerful new partnership with global payments leader Visa, aiming to strengthen Philippine tourism through digital innovation, data-driven insights, and wider global exposure.
The agreement was sealed Thursday in Makati City, where Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and Visa Regional Head for Southeast Asia Bella Lai signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signaling a strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors.
A Collaboration Built on Data, Digitalization, and Inclusion
Under the MOU, the DOT and Visa will work hand-in-hand in several key areas:
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Data-driven tourism development
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Digitalization and innovation for MSMEs
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Financial literacy programs for tourism workers and stakeholders
For Secretary Frasco, this is more than just a partnership — it is a strong vote of confidence in the country.
“Visa has recognized the momentum of growth in the Philippines… Their partnership with us empowers our destinations and our stakeholders,” she said, expressing gratitude and optimism.
She added that Visa’s global influence opens doors for the Philippines to reach new markets and audiences, helping local destinations shine on an international stage.
Tourism Powered by Digital Momentum
Frasco emphasized that the data-sharing component of the partnership will greatly help the DOT refine its programs, improve tourist experiences, and ensure that development remains customer-driven.
More exposure, she said, means more opportunities — especially for small tourism businesses striving to keep up in a rapidly changing digital world.
“The democratization of travel is here — and digitalization drives it,” Frasco noted.
This is why the DOT continues to build strong relationships with digital platforms and global companies like Visa, Klook, and others.
Tourists Prefer Cashless — Visa Study Shows
Visa shared new findings from its 2023 Global Travel Intentions Study, revealing that travelers across the Asia Pacific are increasingly embracing cashless payments:
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97% plan to use debit, credit, or prepaid cards
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Only 17% expect to bring foreign currency
Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro said this aligns perfectly with the nation’s push toward a cash-lite economy.
“Visa supports the government’s vision… By enabling secure digital payments and empowering small businesses, we’re helping build a stronger, more resilient tourism sector,” Navarro said.
He added that this partnership aims to ensure every tourism stakeholder — from big operators to small vendors — can take part in the growing digital economy.
A Bigger Vision for 2026 and Beyond
Earlier, Secretary Frasco shared that the DOT plans to make its 2026 tourism promotions people-driven, shaped by insights gathered from private sector partners and real consumer behavior.
This latest partnership with Visa comes after a similar collaboration with Mastercard in June — another strong signal that the Philippines is gearing up for a future built on innovation, inclusivity, and global reach.
