department of tourism philippines

Department of Tourism

Republic of the Philippines

Department structure.

To develop a globally competitive environmentally sustainable and socially responsible tourism industry that promotes inclusive growth through employment generation and equitable distribution of income thereby contributing to building a foundation for a high trusted society.

Office of the Secretary

Established in 1973, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is the Philippines’ executive office responsible for the regulation and promotion of the Philippine tourism industry.

DOT’s mission is to encourage, promote, and develop tourism as a major socio-economic activity to generate foreign currency and local employment, ultimately spreading the benefits of tourism to both the private and public sector.

TOURISM PROMOTIONS SECTOR

The Tourism Promotion Sector has the primary function of promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination domestically and internationally. It devises integrated marketing and promotional activities such as information dissemination, public relations, special events, and related tourism programs. It likewise supervises the overseas field offices established to implement and enhance the tourism development and promotion program of the Department in the international field.

PLANNING, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND COORDINATION

The Office of the Secretary provides leadership, direction, and substance to the overall operations of the Department. It formulates policies, plans , programs, rules, and regulations; reviews and evaluates the performance of the Tourism Master Plan and advises the President on all matters affecting the tourism program of the country.

INTERNAL SERVICES SECTOR

The Internal Services Sector ensures the smooth and legal functioning of the operations of the Department through the provision of effective and efficient advice and services in the areas of personnel management, human resources development, general services administration, computerization and information technology services, budgetary, financial and management services, and including investigatory and advisory services.

TOURISM SERVICES AND REGIONAL OFFICES SECTOR

The Tourism Services and Regional Offices Sector is tasked to ensure the pleasant entry, stay, and exit of tourists. It formulates standards of quantity and efficiency for tourism-oriented establishments, among others, done through an accreditation system.

Tourist establishments’ compliance to policies are monitored to make sure that their facilities and services are operated and maintained according to acceptable international norms. The Sector also supervises DOT’s regional operations established to implement the policies, plans, programs, and regulations of the Department and to maintain the delivery of efficient and effective frontline services for the tourism industry.

The Philippines is a land rich in natural resources, scenic locales, and friendly smiles. Here, everybody is welcome to be part of the fun – from the captivating coastlines to the creative native crafts, to the unique gastronomic experience, you will find the kind of fun that is uniquely yours.

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Philippines tourism recovery continues to peak with over two million arrivals

The Philippines has already received over two million international visitors this month, the Department of Tourism (DoT) reported on April 24.

The country’s tourism receipts from January 1 to March 31 also reached around 157.62 billion pesos (US$2.73 billion), an estimated 120.70 per cent recovery rate from the 130.59 billion pesos revenue gained from the same period in 2019 or the milestone year for Philippine tourism before the global lockdowns and industry standstill.

Based on DoT’s monitoring data, as of April 24, 2024, a total of 2,010,522 international visitors entered the country, with 94.21 per cent (1,894,076) of the country’s total international arrivals delivered by foreign tourists, while 5.79 per cent (116,446) are overseas Filipinos. This is 15.11 per cent higher than the international arrivals recorded in the same period last year pegged at 1,746,630.

South Korea maintains its spot as the Philippines’ top source market in terms of inbound visitor arrivals with 27.19 per cent (546,726), followed by the US at 15.71 per cent (315,816), China with 6.49 per cent (130,574), Japan with 6.13 per cent (123,204), and Australia with 4.38 per cent (88,048). Ranking from sixth to tenth are Canada, Taiwan, the UK, Singapore, and Germany, respectively.

The country is targeting to welcome 7.7 million international visitors this year, near its pre-pandemic record-breaking achievement in 2019 which ended with an estimated 8.26 million inbound visitor arrivals.

“The Department of Tourism sees a positive trajectory for the country’s international tourist arrivals this year. We are hopeful that with more investments in tourism infrastructure as well as much needed increase in connectivity as well as improvements in air, land, and sea infrastructure and accessibility, the numbers can further increase,” commented tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

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Department of Tourism (DOT): What You Need to Know

The Department of Tourism is an agency under the national government of the Republic of the Philippines, responsible for creating and maintaining a favorable environment for the growth of tourism in the country. The DOT seeks to attract tourists to visit the Philippines and to ensure their safety while in the country. This aims to improve economic, social, and cultural value of tourism amongst Filipinos. In this respect, there had been significant improvements in the Philippine tourism industry over the last decade or so.

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As the Department of Tourism is responsible for the country’s development in the tourism industry, its goal is to promote growth and increase opportunities in tourism, contributing to job generation and poverty alleviation in rural areas. However, there’s so much more to this department than what is typically known to mot Filipinos. In this guide, we will take a look at the services of the department and how its programs affect Filipinos and the country’s economy, in general. Keep reading to learn more.

Table of Contents

What is the Meaning of DOT?

DOT stands for the Department of Tourism in the Philippines.

What is the Purpose of DOT?

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is the primary planning, implementing, and regulatory government agency tasked to develop and promote the Philippine tourism industry, both domestic and international.

The agency is also tasked to manage, operate, and maintain all government-owned tourism facilities. It is the sole owner of all Philippine tourism-related trademarks, as well as its logo and slogan “It’s more fun in the Philippines.” The DOT is headed by a Secretary who reports directly to the President of the Philippines.

The DOT is mandated to formulate tourism plans and programs to promote, develop and regulate the country’s tourism industry as a major socio-economic activity that generates foreign currency and local employment, and to spread the benefits of tourism to a wider segment of the population with the support, assistance, and cooperation of both the private and public sectors.

The DOT is also responsible for promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination, and to this end has created several tourism campaigns that have become well-known around the world. These include “It’s more fun in the Philippines;” “Pilipinas Kay Ganda;” “Sights, Sounds and Flavors of the Philippines;” and “Traveling with Children”.

The DOT envisions “to position the Philippines as a premier tourist destination in Asia”. This vision aims to make travel an integral part of Filipino life through sustainable tourism development that will create new jobs for Filipinos while conserving heritage sites and protecting cultural identities.

In its commitment to serve its purpose, the department is working with the following agencies:

Duty-Free Philippines Corporation: a government-owned and controlled corporation which operates the country’s airports and seaports. The company is engaged in the sale of duty-free goods to foreign nationals who are transiting or on a stopover in any of its facilities. It also operates retail stores at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, NAIA Terminal 2, NAIA Terminal 3, Clark Intl. Airport and Mactan-Cebu Intl. Airport.

Intramuros Administration: the agency responsible for the administration, promotion, and development of Intramuros as one of the country’s tourist destinations.

National Museum : the government agency mandated to preserve, develop, and promote Philippine history and culture through its collection of artefacts, books, documents, and other materials related to Filipino heritage.

National Parks Development Committee: the agency responsible for the administration, development, promotion and protection of all national parks and other protected areas in the country. The committee is also tasked with promoting ecotourism activities that are consistent with preserving the natural resources found in these areas.

Nayong Pilipino Foundation: the government agency mandated to manage and develop the country’s tourism infrastructure through its Nayong Pilipino Parks, a network of theme parks showcasing Philippine culture and heritage. The foundation was formed in 2002 as a subsidiary of the DOTC.

Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving: the government agency tasked with promoting and protecting the interests of recreational divers in the Philippines. The PCSSD is also responsible for regulating scuba diving activities in all Philippine waters and for ensuring that divers are properly trained and equipped before engaging in these activities.

Philippine Retirement Authority: the government agency tasked with managing the country’s pension and retirement funds. The PRSA was created by virtue of Executive Order No. 386, which was issued by former President Fidel Ramos in 1996.

Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA): the agency that oversees the development of tourism infrastructure and enterprise zones in the Philippines. TIEZA is tasked with promoting sustainable tourism, managing public-private partnerships, developing private property for tourism purposes, and providing assistance to investors interested in setting up new businesses in the country.

Tourism Promotions Board Philippines: the entity that promotes tourism in the Philippines. The Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines is a government agency under the Department of Tourism. It was created through Executive Order No. 546, which was signed by former President Fidel Ramos on June 21, 1995.

Brief History

The Philippine Travel & Tourism Association was established in 1950 to promote the country as a major travel destination. In 1956, the Board of Travel & Tourist Industry was established by Congress as a law following the Integrated Reorganization Plan of 1972.

The following year, the Department of Commerce and Industry was merged with the Trade and Tourism Department to form a new agency known as the Philippine Tourism Commission. The objective of the commission is to oversee the development of the tourism industry in the country.

In 1973, President Ferdinand Marcos established a new Department of Tourism, which was composed of two separate agencies. One of these was the Philippine Tourism Authority, while the other was the Philippine Convention Bureau. The new agency was then renamed the Ministry of Tourism. The structure of the department was changed following the implementation of the 1973 Constitution, which provided for the division of government.

In 1986, President Corazon Aquino signed Executive Order 120 and 120A, which reorganized the Department of Tourism. The Convention Bureau was then renamed the Philippine Convention & Visitors Corporation. The Intramuros Administration was also included in the department. In 1998, the Tourism Department was instrumental in celebrating the country’s independence from Spain.

In 2003, the Department of Tourism launched the World Wide Opportunities for Philippines (WOW Philippines) project, which was under the leadership of Senator Richard Gordon.

The passage of Republic Act 9593 in 2009 was regarded as the most significant event in the tourism industry of the Philippines.

Functions and Responsibilities of DOT

The Department of Tourism is responsible for promoting tourism in the Philippines. It does this by developing and managing tourist spots, as well as promoting them through advertising campaigns. The department also regulates the industry to ensure that all businesses are operating within the law.

Office of the Secretary

The Office of the Secretary is responsible for providing leadership and direction to the Department of Tourism. It is also responsible for developing policies and programs, reviewing the effectiveness of the Master Plan, and advising the President on all matters related to the tourism industry.

Tourism Promotions Sector

The Department of Tourism’s tourism promotion sector is responsible for promoting the Philippines as a preferred tourist destination. It is also responsible for developing and implementing marketing programs and promotional activities that are geared toward increasing the country’s tourism profile. It also oversees the department’s overseas field offices that are responsible for enhancing the tourism promotion program of the country.

Tourism Services and Regional Offices Sector

The sector is responsible for ensuring that the various services and facilities of tourist establishments are maintained and operated in a manner that is consistent with international standards. This includes setting uniform standards for the quality of service and ensuring that the establishments are following proper safety and environmental practices.

This division is also responsible for overseeing the implementation of the department’s policies and programs, as well as maintaining the effectiveness of the department’s regional offices.

Planning, Product Development and Coordination

The division is responsible for developing and implementing the department’s Master Plan, as well as its various component programs. It is also responsible for monitoring the implementation of the plan and developing new investment opportunities that will benefit the tourism industry.

Internal Services Sector

The division’s various sections provide effective and efficient services to the Department of Tourism, which ensures that its operations are conducted in a legal and ethical manner. These include human resources management, information technology services, general services administration, and budgetary management.

The Department of Tourism is responsible for the following:

-To formulate and implement plans and policies on tourism development in coordination with other government agencies involved in tourism promotion.

-To provide direction, supervision and control over the performance of all tourism-related activities by local government units (LGUs) within their respective territorial jurisdiction.

-To formulate and implement policies on the development and promotion of international tourism.

-To exercise supervision over the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), including its local offices.

-To coordinate with other government agencies concerned with tourism development in order to ensure that their policies will not be inconsistent or conflicting.

Laws enacted by the DOT

-Republic Act No. 9183 (Tourism Act of 2004), which provides for the establishment of a National Tourism Promotion Board and a Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority;

-Republic Act No. 7916 (Tourist Attractions Development Act of 1995) is aimed at promoting tourist attractions development in the country through its provision on incentives to investors;

-Republic Act No. 7593 (An act providing for the establishment of an inter-island linkage system);

-Republic Act No. 7591 (An act establishing the Philippine Tourism Authority); and

-Senate Bill No. 1526 (Tourism Development Fund Act of 2009).

List of Programs and Services of DOT

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is the government agency responsible for promoting and developing the Philippine tourism industry. It is headed by a Secretary of Tourism appointed by the President of the Philippines.

The DOT has several programs and services, namely:

International Inbound Marketing Program

International Inbound Marketing Program is a service that promotes Philippine tourism to foreign markets. It aims to attract more international tourists to visit the country and spend their money here. This program also helps in promoting local tourism products, services, and events overseas so they can be known by international travelers.

Inbound Marketing Support Services

The Inbound Marketing Support Services is a program that helps develop marketing strategies for the Philippine tourism industry. It also assists local government units (LGUs) and private companies in developing their tourism products, services, and events.

The program also supports the development of a brand identity for Philippine tourism. It aims to establish the country as a prime destination for international visitors by ensuring enough travel-related products and services are available in the market.

Outbound Marketing Program

The Outbound Marketing Program aims to promote Philippine tourism in key markets abroad. It also provides support services for local travel agencies and tour operators. The program helps set up trade shows, road shows, and other events that allow local tourism stakeholders to showcase their products or services to international visitors.

Marketing Research and Intelligence Division

The Marketing Research and Intelligence Division (MRID) is the central marketing research unit of the Department of Tourism. It provides business intelligence to help guide the Department’s marketing strategies and plans. The division conducts market surveys, researches trends in tourism demand, and analyzes data on visitor arrivals by country of origin.

Information Technology Center, Inc.

The Information Technology Center, Inc. (ITC) is the IT arm of the Department of Tourism. It provides information technology services to multiple government agencies, including the DTI and other departments under the DOTr, such as CICT and CAAP. The division also handles e-commerce systems for both domestic and international travelers.

Tourism Promotions Board

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) is the government agency responsible for promoting tourism in the Philippines. It implements various projects and programs that aim to boost tourism arrivals and generate more revenue from the industry. The TPB also manages advertising campaigns, such as “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, which aims to increase awareness of Philippine destinations among international travelers.

Undersecretary for Tourism Program Management Office

The Undersecretary for Tourism Program Management Office (TPMO) is an agency under the Department of Tourism that oversees the implementation of various programs and projects. The TPMO also monitors the activities of other government agencies involved in tourism, such as CAAP, TPB, and DOT. Its main functions include creating tourism development policies and monitoring other agencies’ implementation.

World Trade Center Manila

The World Trade Center Manila (WTCM) is a business-centered building located along Pasay Road in Makati, Philippines. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in Metro Manila and is currently the country’s fourth tallest building. The building houses several shops, restaurants and offices that cater mainly to foreign companies doing business in the Philippines.

– SERVICES –

Check Payables : The agency’s payables or obligations to its creditors can be made through the issuance of modified disbursement system checks or government checks. These checks are usually issued after the approval of related documents.

Collection of Payments for Accreditation and Training/Fees/Bid Documents : All payments for the various services and activities of the Department of Tourism, including the accreditation and training, must be made in cash or check. These can be made through the following procedures: Order of Payment from the Accounting Division or the Accreditation Office.

Endorsement for Special Investor’s Resident Visa : -The service of the DOT endorsement saves you time and money because it gets you a resident visa without having to go back to your home country. You will be able to travel in and out of the Philippines with no problem as long as your visa is valid.

Endorsement of Tourism Development Project to the Board of Investments : The DOT endorsement of a tourism development project to the BoI is an essential step in getting a visa for your foreign investor. The BoI will help you decide which projects are eligible for investment by foreigners and how much money can be invested. If approved, you will get a certificate of investment eligibility that shows that the project has been approved. This document must be submitted with all other documents when applying for your visa at the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country.

Endorsement for Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP) Proposal : The DOT also has a Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP), which is designed to improve the country’s tourism infrastructure through the construction of roads, bridges and flyovers. If you have a TRIP proposal and need an endorsement from the DOT for funding purposes, you will have to submit your proposal in person at any DOT office or send it via mail. The application form can be downloaded from the DOT website.

External Communications Handling : If you are a foreign company that wishes to set up an office in the Philippines, you will have to register with the SEC as an External Communications Handling (ECHC) agent. This is a requirement under Republic Act No. 1067 or the Securities Regulation Code of 2000. Once registered, your company will be able to provide services in relation to foreign investment into the country and communications between investors and their local partners.

Freedom of Information (FOI) Requests : If you are a foreign company, you may have to deal with Freedom of Information (FOI) requests. These are requests for documents that can be made by anyone who is interested in obtaining information about the government’s activities and policies. The government can reject these requests if they relate to “classified” matters or if providing the requested information would pose a security risk.

DOT Internship Application : Students who are interested in working as an intern with the Department of Tourism can apply online or by walk-in applications. To be eligible, you must be a Filipino citizen, have finished at least one year of college education, and speak English fluently. The application process involves submitting your resume and cover letter outlining why you would like to work with the DOT.

Issuance of Certificate of Tax Withheld : To get a Certificate of Tax Withheld, you need to submit an application form and pay the required fees. The DOT will then issue a certificate for you within three working days. This document is proof that your taxes have been withheld from your payment.

LDDAP/ADA Payables : To get LDDAP/ADA payables, you have to register with the DOT and apply for a license. After that, you will receive a list of documents needed to complete your application. You will then submit these documents and pay the required fees in order to get a license from the department.

Maintenance of Databank of Property Offerings : You need to maintain the databank of property offerings, which will be updated as soon as a new listing is added or an existing one is changed. You are also responsible for ensuring that all information in this database is accurate and up-to-date.

Media Coverage Requests : The Department of Tourism has a procedure for providing media and communication support to its various offices. These include its regional offices and other tourism-related agencies.

Payment through Checks : The agency’s obligations or payments to its creditors can be made through the use of a modified disbursement system, which is also known as government checks. These checks are issued after the approval of various documents.

Processing of Application for Vacant Position : The HR process for the recruitment of internal and external candidates for vacant positions is carried out according to the requirements of the ORAOHRA. As of 2017, the deadline for filling up positions has been set at nine months.

Readily Available Photos, Videos, and/or Reports Requests : The Department of Tourism’s media and communications department is responsible for providing a variety of media and communication services to its various offices.

Statistics Technical Assistance : The procedure for approval of requests for statistical data related to tourism is established by the Department of Tourism. It allows employees and other individuals to request such data.

Technical Assistance to Local Government Unit for Tourism Development Projects : The procedure for approval of a local government’s request for assistance in developing tourism infrastructure is outlined in this document.

Video: Department of Tourism-Philippines INFOMERCIAL

Here is an infomercial discussing the overview and Governance Performance Task of the Department of Tourism.

The Department of Tourism is responsible for promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination and for overseeing the country’s tourism industry. The department is headed by a Secretary of Tourism, who is a member of the Cabinet.

The department is tasked with developing and implementing policies and programs to improve the competitiveness of the Philippines as a tourist destination. It is also responsible for promoting the country’s tourism industry, and for regulating the tourism sector.

The department has several key units, including the Tourism Promotions Board, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and the Philippine Tourism Authority. These units work together to promote the Philippines as a tourist destination and to develop and implement policies and programs to improve the country’s tourism industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is the role of the department of tourism in the hospitality industry.

The responsibilities of field offices include overseeing the activities of their staff members and providing them with the necessary information to make informed decisions. They are also responsible for the classification and approval of hotels and restaurants.

2. Who are the officers of the Philippine Department of Tourism?

The Department of Tourism is headed by Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat. Her deputies are Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning Benito Bengzon Jr. and Assistant Secretary for External Affairs Rene Tingzon.

3. What are the functions of the DOT?

The DOT’s main functions are to promote and develop the country’s tourism industry; formulate policies and programs that will attract tourists; coordinate with other government agencies, local governments and private entities in order to implement these policies; conduct research on tourism-related issues, and provide information about the Philippines’ attractions to foreign tourists.

4. What are some achievements of the DOT?

The DOT has successfully attracted more foreign tourists to the Philippines. In 2017, the country welcomed almost 10 million visitors—a record high since it began recording tourist arrivals in 1952. The DOT also launched several projects that support the Philippine tourism industry, such as the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign in 2012 and its website, VisitPhilippines.com; the creation of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) in order to help develop tourism-related infrastructure; and the establishment of the Department of Tourism Academy (DOT Academy) to train local government officials, travel agents, and other stakeholders.

5. What are the roles and responsibilities of a tour guide?

Tour guides are responsible for providing travelers with information about the places they visit. They should also be able to manage groups and individuals, act as an intermediary between clients and local authorities (such as police officers), and make sure their clients have a memorable experience.

6. What steps should I take to become a licensed tour guide?

You should first make sure that you’re eligible for a tour guide license. You can apply for one at the Tourism Academy (DOT Academy) or the Department of Tourism (DOT).

7. Do I need a license to be a tour guide?

Yes. You will need to apply for a license from the Tourism Academy (DOT Academy) or Department of Tourism (DOT). What are the requirements for becoming a licensed tour guide? First, you must be at least 18 years old. Next, you should have completed a course on tourism in an accredited school or university. You should also pass the licensure exam and submit your application form with all necessary documents (including proof of citizenship).

8. Where can I apply for accreditation as a Tour Guide, Tour Escort or Tour Conductor in PH?

You can apply for accreditation at the Department of Tourism (DOT) or the Tourism Academy (DOT Academy).

9. How is my Tour Guide license printed and issued by the DOT?

Your license will be printed in a booklet form, which you can use as proof of your accreditation. The license is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be renewed upon submission of additional requirements.

10. Is there an expiration date on my Tour Guide license?

Yes. Your license will be valid for one year from the date of issue and can be renewed upon submission of additional requirements.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is the government agency responsible for promoting tourism in the Philippines. It is under the Office of the President and led by Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. The DOT, which was established in 1959, promotes tourism through various programs and projects, including tourism promotions and marketing strategies, international trade fairs, grants to domestic and foreign travel agencies, airline companies and hotel chains, as well as airport improvements.

One of the biggest challenges facing the DOT is to increase international arrivals. In 2016, about 5 million tourists visited the Philippines; however, this number has yet been reached again since then due to political instability and other issues such as traffic congestion in Manila and increasing crime rates.

The DOT is also tasked with managing travel warnings issued by other countries against traveling to certain areas due to safety concerns or natural disasters. For example, travelers were advised against visiting Boracay Island after it was closed down due to environmental degradation caused by excessive tourism activities in 2018.

Filipinos, including OFWs, benefit from the work of the DOT by receiving more travel advice and tips from the agency’s website and social media accounts. This ensures that travelers are aware of the potential dangers and risks associated with traveling to certain places. The DOT also works closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure that Filipinos abroad are protected from exploitation and abuse.

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Contact Information

Address : IPO Building, The, 351 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila Telephone Number : 0284595200 Website : http://www.tourism.gov.ph/ Facebook Page : https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/

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DOT underscores Mindanao's vital role in PH's tourism growth

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• by Apipa Bagumbaran
• May. 2, 2024 12:04 pm in News

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reiterated Mindanao's significance in the country's tourism transformation.

Frasco highlighted during her address at the second Mindanao Tourism Expo (MTEx) Mindanao's rich biodiversity and vibrant culture, citing it as a source of national pride for the Filipinos.

Acknowledging the region's vast potential, she stated that upon assuming the role of Department of Tourism secretary, one of her initial priorities was the opening, promotion, and development of Mindanao.

Frasco emphasized that MTEx is a flagship program of the Marcos administration that recognizes the massive potential of Mindanao. The expo, which showcased the diverse tourist attractions of Mindanao, ran from April 26 to 28 in Cagayan de Oro City. It was hosted by the DOT- Northern Mindanao.

She said the MTEX ​is crucial in realizing the president's tourism vision and positioning the Philippines as Asia's next tourism powerhouse. 

"Naa dinhi sa Mindanao ang susi sa kalamboan sa atong turismo. Tungod kay atong nakita nga bisag asang dapit ka moadto sa Mindanao, dili gyud mabangbang, pagkanindot sa inyong lugar, pagkalami sa inyong pagkaon, pagkanindot sa inyong kultura, ug pinakaimportante sa tanan, ang atong mga kaigsoonan dinhi sa Mindanao—in you is reflected the best asset of Philippine tourism," Frasco emphasized.

(Because we have seen that no matter where you go in Mindanao, you cannot deny the beauty of your place, the deliciousness of your food, the richness of your culture, and most importantly, the warmth and hospitality of its people.)

Frasco also stressed that the MTEx is more than just an exhibition; it includes additional features such as business-to-consumer and business-to-business interactions, as well as post-familiarization tours, so that stakeholders and visitors will spread the word that Mindanao is fully prepared for tourism.

"While we continue to promote our award-winning and well-known destinations, we ensure that no one is left behind in the development of tourism in the Philippines, which is precisely why we have founded the Mindanao Tourism Expo to provide opportunities for our destinations in this region and, as well, to open the eyes of the Philippines to the beauty of Mindanao," she said.

The Secretary further elaborated that within the framework of the National Tourism Development Plan of the Marcos administration, the DOT has pinpointed key focus areas for development. These include infrastructure, connectivity, digitalization, enhancement of the overall tourism experience, and strengthening tourism governance.  She stressed that this entails collaborative efforts between the national government, local government, and private tourism stakeholders.

Specific to the goals of tourism development in Mindanao, Frasco highlighted the implementation of various infrastructure projects aimed at both attracting tourists and enhancing their experience for repeat visits. Among these projects is the establishment of tourist rest areas (TRAs). The first TRA in Mindanao was established in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, followed by another in Samal Island, Davao del Norte.

"We are very happy to announce that this year and in the succeeding years, we plan to construct tourist rest areas all over the Philippines, including other areas here in Mindanao," Frasco added.

Frasco also announced that local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao, such as Isabela City in Basilan, Davao City in Davao del Sur, Samal Island and Tagum City in Davao del Norte, and San Agustin in Surigao del Sur, were recently awarded financial grants under the Tourism Champions Challenge program. This nationwide campaign incentivizes LGUs with proposed tourism infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. (APB, PIA Region 10)

DOH, DOT collaborate to establish 'first aid facilities' in Philippines' tourist areas

To improve healthcare accessibility for both domestic and international tourists, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have agreed to establish "first aid facilities" in key tourist areas across the Philippines.

Based on the DOH's statement, during a meeting on Monday, April 29, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed that the initiative aims to establish first aid facilities connected to broader healthcare networks in tourist hotspots such as San Juan (La Union), Coron, El Nido, Puerto Galera, Panglao, and Siargao.

He also emphasized the importance of addressing health, safety, and hygiene services in communities with tourist attractions to foster healthier tourist sites.

"When we fix health care for tourists - both our kababayans and our foreign visitors - we also work on the health care of the communities they visit," said Herbosa.

Meanwhile, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco echoed Herbosa's sentiments, expressing the department's commitment to promoting the Philippines as a premier tourist destination.

"Let us create healthier tourist sites by caring both for our people there and the visitors they welcome," added Herbosa.

The DOH noted that this collaborative effort highlights the government's dedication to enhancing the overall tourism experience while prioritizing the health and safety of both visitors and local communities.

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DOT Chief: Philippines surpasses yearend target with 5.45 million int’l visitor arrivals in 2023, int’l visitor receipts surge at PHP482.54 billion

Manila, Philippines —The year 2023 is a win for the Philippine tourism industry as it welcomed more than five million international visitor arrivals from January 1 to December 31, 2023, recording more than PHP480 billion in international tourism receipts, according to Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

According to the monitoring data of the DOT, a total of 5,450,557 international visitors entered the country from January 1 to December 31, 2023, of which 91.80 percent or the bulk of international arrivals recorded at 5,003,475 are foreigners. The remaining 8.20 percent or 447,082 are overseas Filipinos.

The new record is around 650,000 higher than its target of 4.8 million international visitors projected to visit the country for the entire year.

South Korea retains its top spot as the country’s main source of international visitors, getting 26.41 percent of the pie which delivered 1,439,336 foreign tourists. It was followed by the United States with 903,299 tourists (16.57 percent) visiting the country; then Japan with 305,580 (5.61 percent); Australia with 266,551 (4.89 percent); and China with 263,836 (4.84 percent).

Other foreigners who visited the country from other top source markets after China were from Canada, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Surge in International Tourism Receipts

The tourism chief likewise emphasized that the country’s local tourism industry is recovering faster than expected.

The country’s international tourism receipts have surged at an estimate of PHP482.54 billion from January 1 to December 31, 2023. This is higher by 124.87 percent compared with the PHP214.58 billion estimated visitor receipts from the same period last year. In 2019 or pre-pandemic period, the DOT recorded PHP482.15 billion in international tourism receipts.

The Philippines has also reached an estimated 66 percent recovery rate for its all-time high international visitor arrivals achieved in 2019.

By 2024, the DOT is targeting a baseline target of 7.7 million international visitor arrivals.

“My deepest appreciation goes to every tourism stakeholder, collaborative partner, and passionate contributor who propelled our shared aspirations forward. Under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s guiding vision and leadership, tourism has become a pivotal force driving our nation’s economic resurgence,” said Secretary Frasco,

“These numbers speak very well of the performance of the tourism industry under the Marcos Administration. Since we took office, we have set our goals for the industry not only in terms of international visitor arrivals but most importantly, the number of Filipinos, including their families, who will benefit from the opportunities generated by our constant and continuous efforts to make the industry prosper more than what we have aimed for. We assure the President, including our partners from the public and private sectors, that we will continue to realize the vision of this administration to make tourism a catalyst for economic growth and resurgence,” she added. 

Realization of NTDP goals

In May 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. approved the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023 to 2028, the administration’s blueprint and development framework for the tourism industry, officials said Tuesday.

It contains the DOT’s seven strategic goals formulated under the helm of Secretary Frasco, which is the improvement of tourism infrastructure and accessibility; cohesive and comprehensive digitalization and connectivity; enhancement of overall tourist experience; equalization of tourism product development and promotion; diversification of the tourism portfolio through multidimensional tourism; maximization of domestic and international tourism; and strengthening tourism governance through close collaborations with national and local government units and stakeholders.

Flagship Projects and Programs of the DOT in 2023

On the directive of Secretary Frasco, the DOT embarked on an aggressive campaign to realize the Marcos Administration’s vision of making the Philippines a tourism powerhouse in Asia.

Among others, the DOT successfully turned over 10 Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) in strategic locations nationwide, with 18 more to be built this 2024. A flagship program of the Marcos Administration, the TRAs are equipped with facilities such as work and charging stations, information, and pasalubong centers, and clean restrooms and showers, a lounge area, and a breastfeeding room.

In less than two years of office, the DOT was able to complete 158 kilometers of roads leading to tourism destinations across the country in a bid to increase connectivity in tourist destinations through its Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP) in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

To further provide convenience to tourists in terms of mobility while discovering destinations around the Philippine capital, two Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Travel by The Hubs were also inaugurated in the cities of Manila and Makati. Four additional hubs are also planned to be launched with six local LGUs in Metro Manila as partners.

The DOT is also expanding the country’s cruise tourism portfolio by receiving a total of 125 cruise calls in 2023.

The DOT also launched the country’s first Tourist Assistance Call Center, a centralized multi-platform assistance center that serves as a hotline and one-stop shop for local and foreign tourists. Since its launching in October, a total of 2,497 transactions have been made as of December 31, 2023.

An aggregate of 33,435 app downloads have also been recorded since the launching of the integrated Travel Philippines App, a project of the DOT and its marketing arm, Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

Meanwhile, 21,195 tourism-related jobs were also offered at the Trabaho, Turismo, Asenso Job Fairs–Trabaho Turismo Asenso Philippine Tourism Job Fairs, a collaborative effort by the DOT and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

With the Philippines being known as one of the most hospitable countries in the world, 126,343 tourism workers were trained for the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) as of December 31, 2023, surpassing the initial 100,000 set by no less than the tourism chief.

Initiated by the DOT, the FBSE training program is rooted in the 7M’s of core values that Filipinos are widely known for: Malikhain, Makatao, Makakalikasan, Makabansa, Masayahin, May Bayanihan, and May Pag-asa, and designed to promote service excellence in all tourism-related establishments.

Generating more sales leads

Abundant tourism revenue from international and local business-to-business and promotional events also concluded in 2023 for the Philippine tourism industry.

An estimated PHP6.317 billion total sales leads have been delivered through the DOT’s attached agency, Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, which has been actively carrying out marketing and promotions, mounting  of international and domestic travel fairs, and participating in major expos locally and abroad.

“Looking ahead to 2024, our commitment to the transformation of Philippine tourism is unwavering. Guided by our National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, we are poised for a thriving tourism landscape, evident in surpassing our targets in international and domestic arrivals and receipts, fostering economic prosperity and further job creation for our people,”  said Secretary Frasco.

The New Philippines

Reintroducing The Philippines into the global tourism arena, the country , represented by Secretary Frasco, has been elected Vice President of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a prestigious global position last held by the country more than two decades ago.  Likewise, The  Philippines, with Secretary Frasco’s representation, was also elected as Chair of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific allowing the country to host the Joint Regional Meetings of the Committee for East Asia and the Pacific and South Asia in Cebu in 2024.

Consistent top-of-mind destination 

The past year for the tourism industry may have been a mix of challenges and successes, but as recognized by preeminent award-giving bodies and publications, the Philippines remains a top-of-mind destination among travelers.

This was signified by the six major accolades from the World Travel Awards (WTA) received by the country as 2023 World’s Leading Dive Destination, World’s Leading Beach Destination, the World’s Leading City Destination for Manila as well as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination, and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination. For the first time, the Philippines also earned the spotlight on its inaugural win for the Global Tourism Resilience Award for demonstrating “global leadership, pioneering vision, and innovation to overcome critical challenges and adversity.”

The Philippines, during the previous year, also garnered more than 15 travel and tourism honors from prestigious award-giving bodies in the categories including diving, beach, cruise, culinary, retirement, and Muslim-friendly tourism, “a testament that the Philippines is indeed an emerging tourism powerhouse.” according to Secretary Frasco.

“The extraordinary journey of Philippine tourism in 2023 saw the world express its LOVE for the Philippines with our country’s rise to global prominence as the World’s Leading Beach and Dive Destination, and Asia’s Best Cruise Destination, among many other accolades. The indomitable spirit of the Filipino has been globally acclaimed with the Philippines receiving the Global Tourism Resilience Award with our country seen as a benchmark for innovation amidst trials and challenges,”  enthused the tourism chief.

“Looking ahead to 2024, our commitment to the transformation of Philippine tourism is unwavering. Guided by our National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, we are poised for a thriving tourism landscape, evident in surpassing our targets in international and domestic arrivals and receipts, fostering economic prosperity and further job creation for our people,”  Frasco added.

Published:January 2, 2024

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WTTC announces speakers for its 21st Global Summit in the Philippines

DOT seeks return of Korean tourists, PH’s top market

DOT inks partnership with PNP, PDEA to beef up security in tourist destinations

DOT Launches Digital Travel Magazine “7641”

PHL says “All systems go for full reopening on April 1”; Removes EED as entry requirement

Phl logs more than 100,000 visitor arrivals since feb. 10 reopening.

DOT meets with Japanese tourism execs to boost inbound tourism arrivals

Statement of the DOT on hotel rooms occupancy guidelines

PH opens doors to all foreign tourists with easing of arrival requirements starting April 1

Travel to PHL is “easier”, more fun – Puyat

DOT Launches “Sounds More Fun in the Philippines” Playlist on Spotify

DOT hopeful on higher tourism growth with downgrading of NCR, 38 areas to Alert Level 1

Intramuros visitors up by 132% in February

DOT bares higher tourist influx since reopening

Dot welcomes iatf approval to accept the national vaxcert of 12 additional countries.

PH receives 9,283 inbound tourists; DOT upbeat on higher arrivals in months ahead

Puyat: Walk-in booster shots available for Boracay visitors

All systems go for PHL reopening for international travel- Puyat

Kids’ vaccination to make family travels safe, more fun

DOT lists requirements and protocols for arriving foreign leisure guests

Save the date for the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit in the Philippines

DOT: PH to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10

DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City

DOT Launches “ASMR Experience the Philippines” Project

Dot to hold 2-day conference on english as second language (esl).

PH cities, hotels bag ASEAN tourism awards

Booster shots rolled out for fully vaxxed tourism workers; 50% of NCR hotel staff already “boosted”

DOT trains over 30,000 tourism professionals amid pandemic

Dot welcomes eased travel movement between gcq and mgcq areas for tourism revival, hotel in ‘poblacion girl” fiasco suspended, fined, intramuros gives vulnerable population a breathing space, dot launches website with exclusive travel deals for balikbayans.

Anilao Underwater Shootout stages a successful comeback

DOT’s KAIN NA! makes a comeback in Tagaytay

Dot earns unwto citation for have a safe trip, pinas ad.

Brgy. Bojo in Aloguinsan, Cebu bags UNWTO best tourism village award

More than 95% of tourism workers in dive establishments already vaccinated against covid-19: dot.

DOT: PHL to welcome Int’l tourists soon

Dot welcomes shortened quarantine days for balikbayans, dot asks lgus to simplify entry requirements in tourist spots, miceconnect 2021 positions boracay as asia’s premier bleisure destination, dot releases latest list of domestic destinations waiving rt-pcr tests for fully vaxxed visitors, dot grants incentives to fully vaccinated individuals visiting intramuros.

Statement of the DOT on waiving RT-PCR requirement to Boracay for fully vaxxed tourists

Anilao underwater ‘shootout’ is back

Puyat, dot execs pitch ph tourism in japan travel mart, dot welcomes eased restrictions in mm under alert level 2, free swab tests for domestic tourists starting nov. 1, dot lists destinations without testing requirement, with projected 100% inoculation rate by next month, boracay will soon waive rt-pcr testing for fully vaxxed visitors.

Domestic Travel Welcome-Back: DOT, TPB launch ‘It’s More Fun with You’ ad and ‘Have a Safe Trip, Pinas’ Viber Stickers

22 divers pass dot guide training in anilao.

PH cited Asia’s top beach and dive destination anew in 2021 World Travel Awards

Dot bullish on camiguin’s reopening, boosts covid-19 vax drive, dot clarifies travel guidelines for ncr residents under alert level 4, alert level 3, good for tourism jobs and businesses as holidays near – puyat, 2nd tourism & technology forum: readying for a different future.

DOT vaccination drive for tourism workers continues in Pampanga

Dot welcomes easing of age restrictions for interzonal travel, less quarantine days for travelers an ‘encouraging development’ for tourism industry – puyat.

Vaccination of Rizal tourism workers crucial to industry’s recovery — DOT

Dot welcomes siargao, palawan and boracay win in int’l travel mag awards, over 43k safety seals issued as more businesses apply, dot backs call to shorten quarantine of fully vaxxed travelers, dot calls for cooperation to ensure success of expanded operational capacity of restaurants in ncr.

DOT lauds Samar LGU vax drive for tourism workers

Message of secretary berna romulo-puyat on the celebration of world tourism day, dot ensures compliance of accredited hotels, resorts to new iatf alert level system guidelines.

Cebu vax drive for tourism workers gains traction with more than 50% inoculated

Puyat bares phl hosting of international tourism conference in march 2022.

DOT and TikTok launch #GandaMoPinas Campaign as local borders reopen

Dot invites esl teachers to free online master tesol certification course.

DOT launches “More Fun Awaits” global campaign to showcase travel preps

Statement of the department of tourism (dot), statement of the department of tourism on the inclusion of palawan in t+l’s top islands in asia, world list, more than 50% of country’s tourism workers vaccinated against covid-19 – dot chief, intramuros site visit of dot secretary berna romulo-puyat.

Intramuros sites and Rizal Park to reopen September 16

Philippines boosts participation in expo 2020 dubai, highlights pinoy food, local tourism businesses receive dot, tpb philcare kits.

DOT, partner agencies drive up promotion of Filipino food experience

More than 7.5k tourism workers in Baguio have received Covid vax – Tourism Chief

Dot, tpb distribute p19m worth of materials to promote safety protocols.

DOT, NTF bring vaccination rollout for tourism workers in Siargao Island

DOT: 95% of tourism workers in NCR vaxxed vs Covid-19

Sustainability is key to tourism industry’s recovery — puyat, dot lauds private sector for vaccine rollout in el nido.

PHITEX 2021: Beyond Business slated for September 19-23

Puyat leads vaccination drive for Pampanga tourism workers

More than 75% of Bohol tourism workers eyed for inoculation with second vaccine roll-out

More than 70% of tourism frontliners in metro manila vaccinated vs covid-19 — puyat.

DOT and TPB SUCCESSFULLY STAGED FIRST-EVER HYBRID EDITION OF THE REGIONAL TRAVEL FAIR

Dot, bpos to hold job fair, statement of the department of tourism.

DOT targets increased inoculation of tourism workers in more destinations

Puyat: More vaccines coming for Palawan tourism workers

Dot statement on nesthy petecio’s silver medal finish in the tokyo 2020 olympics, rizal park drive-thru vax site opens; puyat hails manila’s anti-covid initiative, dot gets highest coa rating for 2nd straight year, statement of the department of tourism on the passing of heritage and cultural tourism advocate mr. ramon hofileña, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the heightened community quarantine level implementations in ncr, more tourism workers in boracay to receive covid-19 jabs – dot, dot reiterates call for safe travel amid stricter quarantine measure, dot reminds hotels, resorts that room sharing for quarantined families is allowed, dot celebrates siargao inclusion in time magazine as one of the world’s greatest places of 2021, dot launches halal food tourism, dot backs gov’t infra program to boost tourism, dot backs iloilo bid for ‘creative city of gastronomy’ recognition from unesco, statement of the department of tourism on iatf decision allowing children five years old and above, and fully vaccinated seniors to visit outdoor areas, dot partners with viber to promote kain na foodfest, dot: 3,000 boracay tourism workers to receive covid vax, dot, tpb continues to support lgus with digital transformation projects, dot teams up with scarlet belo and cartoon network to take safe trips, dot statement on the activities of the taal volcano, bakuna by the sea: dot hails davao’s innovative approach to travel, hospitality workers, dot, tpb to roll out 2nd phase of rt-pcr financial subsidy program through pcmc, dot unveils region 1 tourism recovery plan, statement of the department of tourism on the drop of tourism contribution to gdp, dot to co-stage virtual fête de la musique june 18-21, more ncr tourism workers receive support through dot-dole program, travel for tourists of all ages from ncr plus to boracay, other mgcq areas extended to june 30, dot eyes inoculation of 5,000 bohol tourism workers, museums in ncr plus to reopen on limited capacity – dot, dot turns food tourism to high heat with 2021 kain na, terms for tourism business loans eased, dot bares tourism recovery plans for bulacan, dot and tiktok launch #sarapmagingpinoy campaign to promote local food tourism, dot launches five-year plan to develop tourism professionals, dot celebrates world environment month, highlights responsible marine wildlife interactions, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the rt-pcr requirement for leisure travelers under iatf-eid resolution 118a, statement of the dot on iatf-eid resolution 118a, more than 16k bulacan tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, dot orders stricter monitoring of staycation hotels and aes in gcq areas following new iatf guidelines, dot lauds inclusion of frontline tourism workers in a1 priority group, dot hosts pata summit for first hybrid mice event in 2021, over 1,400 golf workers in metro manila get dot-dole cash aid.

Central Luzon to Showcase ‘Flavors of Pampanga’, readies tourists for gastronomic experience

Dot lauds ph hotels recognized with the 2021 tripadvisor awards, 3,390 tourism workers in marinduque approved to receive p16.95m dot-dole cash aid, puyat bares tourism recovery plans for marinduque, dot proposes ‘green lane’ for fully vaccinated travelers, dot hails expansion of priority vaccination to a4 cluster, including tourism frontliners, 5,986 staycation rooms open for guests from ncr plus, intramuros to open fort santiago, baluarte de san diego to visitors may 17, dot statement on the proposed vaccination center in nayong pilipino, dot welcomes iatf decision to ease travel in ncr plus, 221m cash aid approved for 44k tourism workers in western visayas, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the collected garbage from the waters of samal island, davao del norte, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the reported violations of a hotel in davao city, dot to host hybrid pata annual event for adventure travel, p1.5m cash aid approved for 295 intramuros tourism workers, updates on the vaccination of tourism workers, labor day vax for tourism workers, more than 400k displaced tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, philippine tourism and mice industry to bounce back with the hosting of wttc global summit, dot, manila lgu ink mobile hospital deal, dot-accredited establishment staysafe.ph-users, eligible for safety seal certification, dot grants the wttc safe travels stamp to 33 more hotels nationwide, dot welcomes proposals to convert tourism sites to temporary medical facilities, dot lauds repurposed hotels, calls for ‘bayanihan’ vs covid, dot approves use of burnham green and quirino grandstand in rizal park for temporary mobile hospital and drive-thru vaccination site, dot celebrates saud beach inclusion in the 25 most beautiful beaches in the world list of travel and leisure, 67k displaced tourism workers of ncr+ receive dot-dole cash aid, statement of the department of tourism on the vaccination facility in nayong pilipino property, statement of the department of tourism regarding the alleged birthday “super spreader” event in boracay, dot eyes adoption of covid-19 digital travel pass, dot statement on ecq extension in ncr plus, phl, dot nominated at asia edition of 2021 world travel awards, dot pushes for inclusion of other tourism workers in priority group a4, strict new guidelines set for hotels under ecq; lenten ‘staycations’ within ncr plus suspended, dot statement on ecq for ncr+ areas, dot statement on holy week, rizal park and paco park adjust visiting hours, remain open for physical exercise, dot statement on biatf measures for boracay, tpb philippines spearheads tourism and technology forum (ttf), dot statement on coron tourist with falsified travel documents, dot supports rizal tourism circuit on food, faith, art, adventure and nature, the ‘fun’ continues: philippines joins digital itb berlin, dot to spur domestic tourism in rizal, dot’s stdp program to enhance resiliency of phl destinations – puyat, dot sustains online presence with ‘wake up in ph’ campaign and safety travel advisories, dot greenlights partial operations of hotel restaurants on june 15, dot eyes tourism recovery as more destinations may reopen, domestic travel to drive recovery of tourism industry, says survey, dot hails revival of tourist cops, tourism will recover well, dot chief vows, dot celebrates hidden beach, palawan’s inclusion in cnt’s best beaches in the world, tourism industry hikes share in gdp to 13%; puyat sees strong recovery from pandemic, dot pushes stringent guidelines for stakeholders across the nation, biatf denounces travelers’ breach of entry protocol to boracay, dot lauds partnership model for safe and sustainable tourism in boracay, dot issues guidelines on tourist land transport services, iatf–eid resolution reiterates ‘dot certificate of authority’ as requisite to operate, dot issues protocols on restaurant operations under the new normal, dot welcomes ph ‘rising stars in travel’ citation by forbes.com, dot, dti to roll out health and safety guidelines, digital solutions for restaurants, dot, attached agencies promote digital tourism, tourism chief reminds hotels, resorts: no dot certificate, no business operations during mgcq, dot assists 36,000 tourists during covid-19 crisis, dot webinar tackles digital as the new normal, dot welcomes the resumption of tourism operations in areas under mgcq, trust and health safety key to phl tourism recovery – dot chief, puyat on reopening tourism: ‘do it slowly but surely’, dot brings home 84 tourists stranded in eastern visayas, dot supports coron’s sustainable tourism development to bounce back, dot welcomes puerto princesa reopening to domestic tourists, dot urges for more wttc safe travels stamp applications, boracay’s white beach, el nido’s nacpan beach among tripadvisor’s top beaches in asia, dot statement on uniform travel protocols, dot supports the safe reopening of negros oriental, puyat affirms support for siquijor’s reopening, dot statement on el nido’s swift action against tourists with false covid test records, dot supports dilg’s streamlining of travel requirements, dot assists 98 stranded tourists in western mindanao, dot assists 246 tourists stranded in bicol, dot response team assists 1004 tourists stranded in caraga region, statement of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat, dot8 springs stranded tourists, total assisted travelers now at 11,000, dot assists stranded tourists in central luzon, dot response teams assist over 10,000 travelers, dot announces the guidelines on hotels and other accommodation establishments during the enhanced community quarantine, dot chief: innovation to spur food tourism in new normal, dot webinar tackles heritage site conservation and use amid pandemic, dot banners “filipino brand of service”; assists over 35,000 tourists amid pandemic, dot to jumpstart domestic tourism under stricter protocols with iatf and lgus, dot partners with wttc to share experts’ tourism outlook, recovery plans, dot regulates hotel food deliveries, dot: tourism industry up to tough challenges on path to recovery, more than 155,000 tourism sector workers receive first tranche of dof wage subsidy program, dot mounts sweeper flights; brings home 1000 stranded domestic tourists, dot webinar tackles recovery, future of phl’s m.i.c.e., statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the iatf–eid authorization to mount sweeper flights, statement of secretary bernadette romulo puyat on the passing of former dot secretary ramon jimenez, jr., dot–ncr assists 24,000 in–transit nationals amid ecq of luzon, dot and ssi support philippine food producers in online philippine harvest, dot provides virtual backgrounds for video calls to encourage “travel from home”, dot offers online “enhanced opportunity” training for tourism stakeholders, dot-region 6 delivers filipino brand of service in crisis, dot outlines tourism response, post–covid 19 recovery plan to aid private sector, dot issues guidelines defining “new normal” for accommodation establishments, 24,836 hotel rooms reserved for ofws’ quarantine, bpo staff use – dot chief, stranded tourists welcome extended stay in batanes, dot welcomes lifting of travel ban for outbound passengers, recovery flights, tourism transport to continue for stranded passengers, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on covid-19 local transmission, dot statement on the curfew recommendation for lgus, dot, turkish airlines form partnership to increase philippine tourism from europe and mediterranean source markets, dot celebrates first run of the philippine international hot air balloon fiesta in calabarzon, puyat convenes tourism council; invites public to travel within ph, international visitor receipts hit usd 9.31b in 2019, 20.81% up from 2018, dot postpones nationwide mall sale to prioritize safety of citizens, department of tourism unveils new ad inspired by the abakada alphabet, highlighting unique filipino culture, puyat advocates for cultural and ecotourism in the new normal, relive the history of intramuros city with augmented reality app experience philippines, dot: 1st phl shopping fest kicks off march 1st, doh, dilg and dot give public gatherings green light, 2019 international arrivals exceed target with 8.26 million visitors to the philippines, dot welcomes lifting of taiwan travel ban, joint statement of the department of tourism and tourism congress of the philippines, dot backs “balik sa bohol” for tourism industry revival, intramuros reopens in the new normal, relaxed and standard health protocols, personalized trips key to tourism recovery, says latest philippine travel survey, dot files falsification raps against boracay tourists with forged covid test results, dot: reclassification of industries to hasten recovery, dot statement following the president’s latest directive to contain the ncov, guidelines in handling guests in tourism enterpises in the advent of ncov global health emergency, puyat eyes isabela as top agro-ecotourism destination, dot, dti inspect hotels and restaurants’ compliance with health and safety protocols, dot chief checks readiness of palawan, fresh produce at your doorstep, courtesy of dot–grab tie–up, dot ‘seal of good housekeeping’ boosts confidence among restos amid pandemic – puyat, dot celebrates as palawan reclaims best island in the world citation, tourism chief bullish on english schools’ recovery, dot, fao team up for sustainable farm tourism in ph, meetings, conventions allowed only under mgcq at 50% capacity – dot, boracay now open to youths, seniors from region, dot chief lauds senate approval of bayanihan 2 on final reading, cites plans for 10b stimulus fund, “think out of the box,” tourism industry urged in dot webinar, dot assures tourist stakeholders of all–out support for slow reopening, puyat meets with bohol execs to tackle tourism situation, recovery plans, dot, cloud panda ph launches phl harvest e-commerce site, statement of dot, dot to scale up baguio’s ridge to reef travel bubble plan across phl, dot celebrates “surprisingly spectacular diving” tag of 3 phl dive sites by lonely planet, phl bags best overseas diving award 2020, statement of department of tourism, dot’s phidex 2020 goes digital, dot-dole amended jmc further expands coverage of beneficiaries, dot welcomes new protocols for arriving passengers, dot bats for a more fun, safe and sustainable laguna, dot chief: green corridors are critical to tourism recovery, dot statement on destination test requirements, dot statement on boracay tourists, dot welcomes asean as a single tourism destination, iatf allows baguio hotels to receive domestic tourists under gcq, raising the bar of filipino hospitality with the leadership excellence series 2021, dot lauds inclusion of tourism frontliners in priority group for vaccination, dot’s ‘kain na’ cooks up online food fest, phl hosts 3rd asean meet on tourism professionals; dot commits to beef up competency of tourism workforce in the new normal, safety marshalls to ensure physical distancing when beaches, resorts reopen, 10,000 bpo jobs for displaced tourism workers, zero interest loans, no collateral, easy terms for distressed tourism businesses, puyat to grace baguio reopening; dot to go big on domestic tourism in 2021, chocolate, coffee, tea take centerstage in dot’s kain na food festival, dot receives safetravels stamp from world tourism body, puyat launches baguio’s vis.i.t.a. platform, reopening of boracay to more markets builds momentum for domestic tourism revival, puyat: even in most unusual ways, tourism must stay alive, message of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat on the celebration of the world tourism day, dot statement on the city garden grand hotel, dot chief supports negrense cookbook launch, vows continued support to thriving food tourism scene in western visayas, dot statement on the closure of makati shangri-la hotel, dot pledges to help negros occidental get ready for more domestic tourists, dot welcomes the first two recipients of the wttc safe travel stamp, dot statement on baguio party incident, dot welcomes iatf decision to allow balikbayans, dot launches “have a safe trip, pinas” to promote safe travels and support tourism workers, dot celebrates ph’s victory as world’s leading dive destination and tourist attraction for intramuros in 2020, dot welcomes coron’s reopening on dec. 1 with health and safety measures in place, dot aims for data-driven response to tourism recovery under new normal with survey, dot backs enhanced contact tracing; announces low-cost covid tests with up-pgh for boracay-bound tourists, puyat encourages affected tourism workforce to avail of the expanded dot-dole financial assistance, dot welcomes strides to reboot mice, puyat visits batangas, shores up dive tourism, statement of the dot on cebu resort incident, dot presents virtual concert to promote manila’s cultural heritage sites, dot, makatimed foundation forge partnership for tourism destination health security, dot launches webinar training on reducing single-use plastics for hospitality sector, dot to assist zambales in safe and gradual tourism reopening, dot bats for uniform lgu travel requirements, dot, tpb promote pinoy christmas through music, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot prepares local destinations, accommodation establishments for wttc safe travels stamp application, 27,000 displaced tourism workers of car receive dot-dole financial assistance, dot backs temporary suspension of flights from uk, dot inspires balikbayans to come home with ‘balikan ang pilipinas’ campaign, dot, tpb expand rt-pcr financial subsidy program for 11,600 tourists through pcmc, dot reiterates penalties for quarantine hotels used for staycation and other purposes, dot supports strict entry protocols in light of new covid-19 variant, dot reiterates rule on staycation hotels, dot celebrates boracay and palawan inclusion in conde nast’s 25 best island beaches in the world list, dot issues guidelines for safe ‘staycation’, dot accreditation goes digital, boracay reopens, heralds “safe, gradual” revival of philippine tourism, dot gets coa’s highest rating on 2019 audit, dot sees domestic tourism boom in baguio with affordable antigen testing, phl islands named top favorites by int’l travel magazine, dot welcomes reopening of ilocos norte to luzon tourists on oct 15, dot funds rt-pcr testing of boracay tourism workers, dot inks tourism “cares for travel” msme loan program with sb corp, health, safety rules drawn up for recreational diving, batangas now open to divers – dot, puyat reminds ‘staycation hotels’ to follow rules, protocols, dot welcomes baguio city’s opening to guests from luzon starting oct. 22, dot statement on the opening of ilocos sur starting nov 15, ridge and reef corridor heralds domestic tourism recovery, puyat – hotels in gcq, mgcq may now be allowed to operate at full capacity, pra to amend retirement policies, suspends processing of srrv applications, dot supports expansion of palawan’s travel bubble starting oct. 30, tourism chief bats for covid-19 tests price cap, dot urges tourism businesses to avail of sb corp’s covid-19 loan program, dot leadership excellence series returns anew, dot statement on the inclusion of palawan and boracay in big 7 travel’s list of 50 most beautiful places, dot, tpb launch official philippine travel app, dot, dole agree on guidelines for cash-for-work program for displaced tourism workers, tour guides, dot’s kain na takes on food trips for november, intramuros is now asia’s leading tourist attraction the philippines and dot receive accolades at the 2020 world travel awards asia winners day, statement of the department of tourism on prrd’s signing of eo 118, dot inks mou on tourism education, training, dot partners with nissan to promote ‘safe trips’, dot allows operation of 7,200 hotels, resorts, dot lauds ibagiw 2020, baguio’s creative city festival, dot welcomes reopening of phl’s surfing capital, siargao, ridge and reef travel corridor expands to ilocos sur, dot chief visits baguio city, touts cultural tourism with creative crawls, sec. puyat to grace 2020 bambanti festival, dot allocates p340.7m for iloilo tourism infrastructure development, tourist arrivals mark 7.4m in november, up by 15.58%, safety of tourists is dot’s top priority – sec. puyat, dot, cab collaborate to enhance air passenger’s bill of rights, statement of the department of tourism, 2nd statement of the department of tourism, dot thanks smart for emergency satellite phones, dot–dotr meet to boost tourism infra, connectivity; puyat to push approval of 1b for night–rated airports, dot chief to visit, vows to revitalize baguio, tourism chief: phl one with asean in responding to covid crisis.

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Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Press Conference With Counterparts From Australia, Japan and the Philippines, in Honolulu, Hawaii

STAFF: Introduce our secretaries and ministers today. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III; the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense for Australia, the Honorable Richard Marles; Minister for Defense for Japan, the Honorable Minoru Kihara; and the Philippines Secretary of National Defense, the Honorable Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

Each of the secretaries and ministers will deliver opening remarks and then have time to take a few questions. Please note that I will moderate those questions and call on journalists. With that, Mr. Secretary or Secretary Austin, the floor is yours, Sir.

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Thanks, Patrick.

Well, good afternoon everyone. Deputy Prime Minister Marles, Minister Kihara, Secretary Teodoro, it's been great to welcome you to Camp Smith. And it's been great to be back here in Honolulu. I want to thank Admiral Aquilino in INDOPACOM for their hospitality on the eve of tomorrow's Change of Command Ceremony.

Earlier today, I had the chance to meet with Deputy Prime Minister Marles and Minister Kihara. We discussed how we can deepen our trilateral cooperation to strengthen stability and security throughout the Indo-Pacific. And together with Secretary Teodoro, we held a historic meeting to further deepen the defense relationships among our four countries.

Just last year, in Singapore, the defense ministers from Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States met together for the first time. Today's meeting, the second of its kind, built on that momentum, and it helped advance a vision that are for democracy share for a free and open Indo-Pacific. I'm proud of all that the United States has achieved each of your country's gentlemen since President Biden took office, and I'm proud that all that we've achieved together.

Just last month, our four militaries conducted a maritime cooperative activity in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone. This was the second multilateral cooperative activity of its kind in the last 12 months alone. Activities like this don't just strengthen our interoperability, they also build bonds among our forces. And they underscore our shared commitment to international law in the South China Sea.

Now, we also talked about the security landscape across the Indo-Pacific and discussed new initiatives to make the region more stable and secure. We're looking to conduct more maritime exercises and activities among our four countries. We also want to pursue coordinated security assistance to the Philippines that will boost interoperability and help the Philippines achieve its defense modernization goals.

So, it's been a highly productive day. We've gathered here because we share a vision for peace, stability, and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. We've chartered an ambitious course to advance that vision together, and that's why today's meetings were so important. So ministers, thanks again for joining me here in Honolulu, and Richard, over to you.

AUSTRALIAN MINISTER OF DEFENSE RICHARD MARLES: Thank you, Secretary Austin, Minister Kihara, Secretary Teodoro, it is a pleasure and an honor to be standing with the three of you here today. We meet at a time when the global rules-based order is under intense pressure. We see that in Ukraine, with the appalling invasion by Russia of that country. But we see the global rules-based order under pressure in the Indo-Pacific as well. And a challenge to the global rules-based order in Ukraine is a challenge to the global-rules based order in the East China Sea, in the South China Sea, in the West Philippine Sea. And our four countries are utterly committed to asserting freedom of navigation, to asserting the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, to asserting the global rules-based order around the oceans of the world, including in the West Philippine Sea.

Our alliance with the United States has been the cornerstone of Australia's national security since World War II. And today, the security relationship that we have with both Japan and with the Philippines has never been closer, but as close as our respective bilateral relationships are, there is a power and a significance in our four countries acting together. And today, the meetings that we have held represents a very significant message to the region and to the world about four democracies which are committed to the global rules-based order.

In our discussions today, we've spoken about an increased tempo of defense exercises based on the reciprocal access agreements, the status of forces agreements that we have between our countries, all which are being negotiated. We have been very pleased to sign the research, development, testing, and evaluation arrangement with Japan and with the United States, and this arrangement will see much greater collaboration between our countries in relation to defense science and technology. And we've also discussed ways in which our countries can coordinate more in terms of our activities in the Philippines, which is very important as well. As I said, we are four people who have a very close personal relationship, which reflects the significance of the relationship between our countries, and the determination and commitment that we have as four countries to upholding the global rules-based order within our region, and Australia has been very pleased to be able to participate in today's meetings.

Finally, can I just say the United States Indo-Pacific Command is profoundly important to the national security of Australia but also the countries of the region. And I want to take this opportunity to thank Admiral Chris Aquilino for his service in this command during his tenure of office. He is a dear friend of Australia and we wish him very much the best for his future. In the same breath, I'd also like to say how much we are looking forward to Admiral Sam Paparo taking up his role as the Commander of Indo-Pacific Command. I've had the opportunity to get to know Admiral Paparo over the last few years, excuse me, and I know that this command could not be in a safer or better pair of hands. And so with that, we wish both men all the best for the handover tomorrow.

JAPANESE MINISTER FOR DEFENSE MINORU KIHARA: First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Secretary Austin, DPM Marles, Secretary Teodoro, and everyone involved for your effort to realize this meeting. While the security environments around us is facing even harsher challenges, it is extremely vital for us, allies and like-minded countries, to cooperate and collaborate with each other in order to maintain and bolster peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region under such circumstances. It is extremely significant that we are able to hold a second meeting of the Japan -- U.S., Australia, Japan, and Philippines Defense Ministries meeting. Furthermore, to be able to hold the first joint press conference on the four nations.

We stand by together with all the nations who share a common vision of the free and open Indo-Pacific, which is the foundation of the peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region. Japan, I consider it is the most important to maintain and bolster free and open international order based on the rule of law. I express -- explained East China Sea situation in the meeting as well as also issues around South China Sea is the valid interest matters of the international society, including the four nations, which is directly related to the peace and stability of the region.

We stand united to strongly oppose any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo of the South China Sea by force or any activity to heighten the tension in the region. Last month, we had a joint exercise with U.S., Australia, Philippines, and Japan in the South China Sea. This was the first joint maritime cooperative activities, MCA, by the four nations to strengthen the regional cooperation to realize free and open Indo-Pacific. And at the -- and that opportunity, the four ministers who are present today issued a joint statement demonstrated that solidarity of our four nations to the international society. We would like to continue to pursue the further opportunities of cooperations.

Currently, we are under negotiation to reach RAA, Reciprocal Access Agreement, with the Philippines. The early settlement of this negotiation will further activate and vitalize the bilateral joint exercise and training of the Philippines and Japan military units and expected to contribute to the reinforcement cooperation -- of the cooperation among the four nations. Japan is determined to further strengthen the cooperation of the four nations and will make all possible efforts to secure peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. Thank you.

PHILIPPINES SECRETARY OF NATIONAL DEFENSE GILBERTO TEODORO JR.: Thank you very much, Secretary Austin, Deputy Prime Minister Marles, Minister Kihara. Thank you once again for -- to Secretary Austin for hosting this historic meeting today. It comes after the trilateral meeting between our heads of state in Washington, D.C. and in our case, the visits bilaterally of President Ferdinand Marcos to Australia, Japan, and the United States.

The underlying principle of this meeting is a shared respect for a rules-based international order and the upholding of international law. And it is safe to say that four countries, four independent countries voicing the same message means an important thing in the face of a unilateral declaration by a single theater actor. And this is what perhaps the symbolic suggestion of four defense ministry and department heads are here today. And in this spirit of upholding a rules-based international order, a free and open Indo-Pacific, and upholding international law, we meet here once again today, we meet here once again today in the latest iteration of a -- our four countries multilateral cooperation.

We are gratified to see that the Philippines' role as at the forefront of severe challenges to its territorial rights, challenging the accepted norms of international law are accepted by like-minded nations. We welcome their partnership and cooperation, not only to protect solely its territorial integrity and sovereignty, but to uphold, once again, let me reiterate, principles of international law, which guide the global order in the proper way that nations should live amongst each other.

On a more concrete note, this latest iteration will give birth to further cooperation and coordination and interoperability between four of our countries, which the four of us have committed to work closer together in order to have more synergies and partnerships, in order to make this alliance that we have stronger and more sustainable in the long run. Also, we look forward to concluding Reciprocal Access Agreement between Japan and the Philippines so that our interoperability quadrilaterally can be in a more complete manner -- can be enforced in a more complete manner.

Lastly, we thank Admiral Aquilino of INDOPACOM for his service to the region. And we welcome working with Admiral Sam Paparo. Once again, thank you, Secretary Austin for hosting us. And we look forward to more fruitful outcomes in the future as we work closer together, not only in terms of our departments, but in true people to people understandings and exchanges. Thank you.

STAFF: Thank you all, gentlemen. Our first question will come from Phil Stewart, Reuters.

Q: Thank you. Secretary Austin, on Gaza, do you have any credible information that Hamas hopes to target U.S. troops building and eventually operating the pier of Gaza? And then a question on U.S. and Philippines. To Secretary Teodoro, given recent clashes with China in the Second Thomas Shoal, do you believe it's increasingly likely that you will need to invoke the Mutual Defense Treaty? And what kind of U.S. response would you like to see if a Filipino service member is killed?

And just to clarify, Secretary Austin, to confirm President Marcos referring to your comments, said it would take the death of a Filipino service member to invoke the treaty. Is that correct that you feel that way? And what makes that threshold the right one? Thank you.

SEC. AUSTIN: Well, thanks, Phil. Number of questions in there, so I'll try to work my way through them. But first, I think the first question was regarding any credible information that we have that Hamas is going to attack our troops. Of course, I don't discuss intelligence information at the podium, but I don't see any indications currently that there is an active intent to do that. Having said that, Phil, this is a combat zone and a number of things can happen, a number of things will happen. And the safety and security of our troops is very important to me.

And so the chairman and I have worked through -- have talked with the Combatant Commander, General Kurilla, a number of times on what measures he's putting in place. He personally is putting in place to ensure that our troops are protected. And so I think he's done an incredible job of making sure that he has the right means in place. Our allies are also providing security in that area as well. And so it's going to require that we continue to coordinate with them very closely to ensure that, you know, if anything happens that, you know, our troops are protected.

The second question I think you asked was regarding our treaty with the Philippines. You know, we've been very clear to everyone to include Beijing that the kind of behavior that we've seen where Filipino crews are put in danger where, you know, troop -- sailors have been injured and in property damage that's irresponsible behavior and it disregards international law. So, Phil, I won't get into any hypotheticals on what could happen and how it could happen. I would just say that you've heard me say. You've heard our president say a number of times that our commitment to the treaty is ironclad and we stand with the Philippines.

And finally, let me just say that, as all of us have said, we're doing historic work with the Philippines and helping them modernize their military and it's exciting work and we look forward to continuing to make progress. And today's discussion just highlighted the kinds of things that we need to focus on, that we are focusing on, types of exercises and operations we're going to do to ensure that we increase interoperability. So, it's been a very, very fruitful day from that standpoint.

SEC. TEODORO: I would like to echo the words of Admiral Aquilino that it would really be counterproductive to delve into hypotheticals. And I, for one, as Defense Secretary, would like to steer away the discussion from a scenario when or in what occasions the MDT may be invoked, when our jobs as secretaries is to make sure that there are no situations through capability building, through deterrence, that an MDT situation would arise. And so we are very conscious of the fact that we need to assert our rights but in a manner that safeguards the safety of each and every member of the Philippine Armed Force, which is the principal actor in the area.

And the talk about MDT sometimes also is exploited in the international press and used sometimes as a bogeyman in order for our countries bilaterally and multilaterally to go forward with legitimate hardening measures for the Republic of the Philippines. So I would stay away from theoretical and hypothetical talks of the MDT because to me, these are counterproductive. It is an agreement and it will be a political decision at the end of the day of both the -- principally the Philippine government when to invoke it.

And I will leave it at that.

STAFF: Thank you, gentlemen. Our next question will go to Tajima Yoshihiko, Asahi Shimbun.

Q: My name is Tajima from Asahi Shimbun. I would like to ask all of you, sirs, this is the first time that the Secretary and the Ministry -- Ministers of Defense of the four countries gathered together to make an appearance for the press conference. And having standing side by side to hold this press conference like this, what kind of message you could send to China?

SEC. AUSTIN: Is this for all of us? Okay, I'll start. And first and foremost, we're here today because we share a common vision. And that vision is a free and open Indo-Pacific. And we believe that our continued work together will continue to promote activities that will help lead to that accomplishment of that vision. And you just heard us talk about some of the work that we're doing together. And I think that kind of work will advance again, our efforts to achieve the objective.

Now, having said that, we're clear-eyed about the challenges that exist throughout the region. And it's a -- and so we'll need to continue to work together, to increase interoperability, to make sure that we share information, share intelligence. And again, I think that's the way that you promote security and stability. But that's why we're here because we share a common visions.

MIN. MARLES: Thank you. Well, we -- in standing here, I think we reflect a determination to work as closely as we can together to pursue our objectives. And those objectives are around what each of these four countries stands for on their own and what we stand for together. And that is, as Secretary Austin has just said, a free and open Indo-Pacific. It is the maintenance of the global rules-based order within our region.

And we do that as four democracies, which have shared values. So we stand here today is actually about us. That is what we are giving expression to in this moment. And I'd make the observation that in standing for a free and open Indo-Pacific, in standing for the expression of the global rules-based order in our region, we are standing for what has underpinned prosperity and security within the Indo-Pacific for decades, which has seen this region of the world experience enormous economic growth, and in many ways, be the powerhouse of the global economy and has literally seen millions of people raised out of poverty. That's what this is about.

This is first and foremost about what each of us stand for collectively. It is about the way in which we work together. And it is about the assertion of a global rules-based order.

MIN. KIHARA: Press conference today, we expressed concerns regarding the situation in East and South China Sea. However, this statement is not directed to towards any specific or particular nation. And it is towards the nations which are trying to change the status quo by force. Based on that, it is urgent that we strengthen cooperation and interoperability with allies in like-minded countries in order to maintain peace and stability in the Pacific nation.

At the last trilateral meeting, we were able to agree to promote cooperation and also in interoperability in the area of the defense and peacekeeping and security. And not too far from off from the U.S., Philippine, and Japan summit, this time, we were able to hold this defense ministers and the secretaries' meeting, and also hold this joint press conference today.

And I would like to continue sending messages throughout the world that us, four nations and governments gathered together here today, and we'll be sending we'll be in hand to hand to continue making efforts to the realization of free and open Indo-Pacific region, as well as realizing inter orders based on keeping -- abiding by the rules.

SEC. TEODORO: Is here, have a common understanding of generally accepted principles of international law, UNCLOS, and the need for a global and open Indo-Pacific. And this common understanding includes the interpretation of these bodies of law, which are commonly accepted against unilateral appropriations of singular interpretations for the benefit of any one country.

For the Philippines, this is particularly important, being a small archipelagic nation, where our integrity as an archipelagic country and as a political and legal whole depend on the world's acknowledgement of its baselines under international law. And this is not only a question of legal or political importance. But being a country with a growing population with climate change challenges, this is essential for its sustainability and for the sustenance of our future generations.

So generally, we are fighting today for the betterment of future generations of Filipinos. And that is the fight for us, which we appreciate, because it falls under the context of a rules-based international order that the three countries are supporting us in our common quest for already commonly understood definitions of international law, particularly in the maritime domain. This is the message that I interpret this meeting to be.

Q: One more question I would like to ask. For Japan, which is increasing the defense capability, how do you evaluate its effort? And then please tell us what you expect you have for Japan in the framework of these four nations. Also, we have another question for Minister Kihara. We understand that the very first maritime cooperative activity for U.S., Australia, Philippines, and Japan, and we are also understanding that there'll be more MCA or more frequent MCAs, and then with our constitution, and what would you think that you can -- what you can do, what type of activities you can do?

SEC. AUSTIN: (inaudible) to -- or efforts to defend -- efforts to increase his defense capability. And I'll let Minister Kihara speak to how they're doing and what they're doing. What I will say is that Japan is a very important ally to us. It is a very capable country, a proud democracy. And we have often described Japan as -- our relationship with Japan as a cornerstone to our efforts in the region. And certainly, leads to or contributes to greater security and stability in the region.

So we're going to do -- continue to do everything that we can to help Japan achieve its goals and objectives. You know, they -- they're looking to further modernize their force, do some things to restructure their command and control, invest in new capabilities. And we're going to help any way we can, every step of the way.

And you saw from the recent summit conducted in Washington, we announced a number of defense initiatives that I think are going to ensure that we're working together with Japan to continue to build real, credible capability as far as their defense is concerned.

MIN. MARLES: As I said at the outset, we have never been closer to Japan than we are right now in terms of the way in which we cooperate on our collective security. We have a reciprocal access agreement in place, which is a step change in the way in which we engage with each other in respect of defense. And that last year, for example, saw us operate F-35s in both of our countries together.

And so we welcome an increase in Japan's defense capabilities. We welcome it because we see Japan as a close partner with us, but with America, with the Philippines, in contributing to the collective security of the region in which we all live. And from Australia's point of view, we take the position now that the Defense of Australia doesn't mean much unless we see the collective security of the region in which we live.

And so when we look at Japan making its commitments to increase its capability and working closely with us in providing for the collective security of the region, that is a very good thing.

SEC. TEODORO: Japan has been a traditional, industrial, commercial, and tourism partner of the Philippines for some time now. So it is a logical facet of our bilateral relations that we welcome the increase in defense capabilities, particularly in the technological field of Japan of which the Philippines can be a partner or a recipient of.

Now, for the collective regional question, we welcome the additional capabilities of Japan, because as we said, they are an important cog in our scheme of things, particularly in this quadrilateral summit in enforcing regional peace in the area. And we look forward to Japan's increasing role, not only bilaterally with the signing of our reciprocal access agreement, but all the resultant benefits that this and other multilateral initiatives will bring to the region.

MIN. KIHARA: Well, that was my question too about my -- our contribution to the -- our role in the framework, correct? Okay. Last month, our -- the four nations had the joint exercise. 

And today we released a joint statement by four secretary and ministries -- ministers for who are standing here today. The MCA by our four countries is an effort that strengthens the international cooperation as -- and represents our stance that we support and respect maritime rights under the international laws, now, such as Freedom of Maritime activity in order to achieve realization of free and open Indo-Pacific.

And in terms of what type of activities that the Japan Self-Defense Force will or may participate in MCA will be considered and determined individually and specifically for each activity. In any case, I would work on deepening our commonality in our common tasks and pursue to have more opportunities of cooperation by four nations and including MCA. Thank you.

STAFF: Thank you, gentlemen. Our last question will go to Haley Britzky, CNN.

Q: Thank you so much. Question for you, Mr. Secretary and then for you as well, Minister Marles. Secretary Austin, you've said that you've not yet seen a detailed plan from Israel that takes into account removing civilians from harm in Rafah before an offensive operation. What consequences would Israel face from the U.S. if they moved on this operation without appropriately taking into account those civilians in the area?

And secondly, on Niger, where it was reported today that Russian troops have moved into an air base that also are housed in U.S. forces, are you concerned about the proximity of Russian and U.S. forces? And what is your message to other countries on the continent who may be eying expanding their relationship with Russia?

And for you, Minister Marles, Australia announced recently another 100 million in aid to Ukraine. After your recent visit to Ukraine, do you believe that that's enough? And would Australia be prepared to provide more support, particularly in air defenses? Thank you.

SEC. AUSTIN: Well, thanks, Haley. In terms of consequences, you know, I'll -- I won't speculate on what could happen, what should happen. That'll be determined by the President if we reach a point that we-- that something like that needs to happen.

But what we've asked, what we've highlighted for the Israelis is that, it's really important to make sure that the civilians that are in that battle space move out of the battle space before any activity is conducted. And that, you know, when -- if and when they return to any kind of operation, that it'd be conducted in a more -- much more precise fashion.

They have not yet moved the civilians out of the battle space. Just as you know, Haley, there were some 275,000 or so people that were living in and around Rafah before the conflict started. Now, there's 1. 4 million or so people there. And that's a lot of people in a very small space. And again, if there's a good chance that, you know, without taking the right measures that the civilians will be, you know, civilians --- we'll see a lot more civilian casualties going forward.

So before anything happens, we certainly want to see them address that threat to the civilians. And again, we would ask that things be sequenced. But, you know, right now, the conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation. And we've been clear about that. You know, it's necessary to take care of the civilian population that's in that area before anything else happens.

In Niger, you asked about Niger and Russians being in the same space that we're in in Niger. I think you know that Air Base 101, where our forces is, is a Nigerian Air Force base that is co-located with an international airport in the capital city. The Russians are in a separate compound and don't have access to U.S. forces or access to our equipment.

And this is something that, you know, again, I'm always focused on the safety and the protection of our troops, something that we'll continue to watch. But right now, I don't see a significant issue here in terms of our force protection. Thank you.

MIN. MARLES: Thanks for the question. I was very pleased and honored to be able to announce our most recent package in support of Ukraine, which was $100 million. But in announcing that package, it is just the most recent package. There will be more. We've made it clear from the outset that we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to resolve this conflict on its terms. And we see this as an enduring conflict where we will need to be standing side by side with Ukraine over the long-term. And so that will see future packages, just as there have been previous packages to the one that we announced last week.

But we did see that this was a particularly precarious moment for Ukraine. And so we felt that it was important on this occasion in announcing the package to do so in Ukraine.

And I felt very -- as I say, very privileged and honored to be able to make this announcement in Ukraine itself.

Integrated air and missile defense was a key priority for Ukraine in the conversations that we'd had with the Ukrainian government. It formed about half of the package that we announced. And we will continue to work with the Ukrainian government going forward about what their priorities are and where our support can be best placed.

STAFF: Mr. Ministers, Secretaries, thank you very much, gentlemen, for your time today. Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes our press briefing. Thank you for joining us today.

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