Philippines Reaffirms Tourism Commitment at MOPC Grand Tourism Night
Manila, The Gulf Observer: The Philippines remains firmly committed to investing in tourism and enhancing the travel experience for visitors, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos affirmed on Friday.
Speaking before tourism stakeholders and business leaders at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Tourism Night, held at New World Makati Hotel, Mrs. Marcos emphasized the administration’s recognition of tourism as a vital economic driver, contributing 8.9 percent to the nation’s 2024 Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“This is why this administration is investing in better airports, stronger connectivity, and smoother travel experiences,” the First Lady said. She added, quoting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., “More tourists mean more jobs and more opportunities for our people.” She also underscored the crucial role of the private sector, extending gratitude to industry partners on behalf of the President.
During the event, 16 organizations were honored as MOPC Grand Tourism Awardees: Sonya’s Garden, Rodeo Masbateño, New World Hotel Makati, Shangri-La Hotel The Fort, Rajah Tours and Travel, Discovery World Corporation, Clark Development Corporation, Globe Telecom, GT Capital Holdings, Aboitiz Infracapital, Alliance Global Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, and the MVP Group of Companies.
Prominent figures receiving awards included San Miguel Corporation Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang, Alliance Global Group CEO Kevin Tan, and Aboitiz Infracapital Head of Airports Business Rafael Aboitiz.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted the sector’s achievements, noting that nearly seven million Filipinos are employed in tourism-related industries. “These gains are not by accident,” she said, crediting “deliberate strategic interventions to ensure the long-term resilience of the industry.”
The evening also saw Mrs. Marcos honored with the MOPC Transformative Power Award for her contributions to the sector.
