International travelers can now transform long layovers into cultural adventures and seamless healthcare journeys with the official launch of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) first-ever Transit Tours and Medical Concierge at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.
On Tuesday, December 16, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, inaugurated the landmark facilities. The initiative marks a significant step in the administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision to modernize gateways and diversify the country’s tourism offerings.
President Marcos Jr. described the initiatives as a shift toward “experiential tourism,” designed to showcase Filipino heritage and hospitality even to those with limited time.
“Instead of spending hours confined to the terminal, travelers are now given a chance to enjoy a curated glimpse of the Philippines,” the President remarked. He further noted that the improvements were designed with families, the elderly, and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in mind, resulting from “systems being fixed and institutions cooperating.”
Eligible travelers from visa-free countries with a minimum layover of eight hours can now explore Metro Manila through safe, time-bound, and curated itineraries. For a flat fee of USD 50, which includes insurance and entrance fees, passengers can choose between:
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Morning Tour: A journey through history at Intramuros and the National Museum in Manila.
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Afternoon Tour: A modern experience featuring world-class entertainment and shopping at Okada and Solaire in Pasay and Parañaque.
Tours are conducted via a 49-seater air-conditioned bus, accompanied by a DOT-accredited guide and a police officer. Bookings are available via the LovePH mobile app, the Philippine Airlines website, or on-site at the NAIA Terminal 3 Concierge Desk.
Simultaneously, the launch of the Medical Tourism Concierge positions the Philippines as a top-tier destination for healthcare and wellness. The concierge provides end-to-end personalized assistance—from arrival to post-treatment recovery.
The program partners with the nation’s leading medical institutions, including:
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St. Luke’s Medical Center, The Medical City, Asian Hospital, and Makati Medical Center.
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Belo Medical Group, GAOC, Novodental, and Urban Smiles.
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Members of the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines (WeTAP).
Patients are met by an International Patient Concierge (IPC) after clearing immigration and customs. A dedicated private room is available at the terminal for VIP patients to ensure privacy while awaiting transportation to their respective medical facilities.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized that these programs align with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028.
“When we elevate the visitor experience, we create livelihood for Filipinos and present the Philippines with confidence to the world,” Secretary Frasco stated, reaffirming the DOT’s commitment to giving travelers more reasons to “Love the Philippines.”
