Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Filipino Community (FilCom) in Japan and various tourism stakeholders for their invaluable contributions to the Philippine economy through increased tourism revenue. The Secretary’s remarks were made during a special FilCom Meet and Greet held on Saturday, June 21, in the City of Osaka, where she joined President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos.
Secretary Frasco highlighted the significant impact of their support, noting, “Specific to our overseas Filipinos here in Japan, we thank you because, with your help and the help of our tourism stakeholders, over 400,000 Japanese visitors have come to the Philippines, generating over $500 million for the Philippine economy. Thank you very much to all of you, our tourism ambassadors.”
The tourism chief also outlined the DOT’s key initiatives aimed at uplifting the lives of Filipinos through tourism under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. “We are improving the entire Philippine tourism experience. We are building tourism infrastructure, and we are now on the road to completing the 100th Tourist Rest Area across the Philippines. We are improving our airports, building tourism roads and seaports, and most importantly, we are providing livelihood opportunities for our fellow Filipinos. Over 16 million Filipinos now have jobs because of tourism,” she shared.
Secretary Frasco concluded her address by inviting attendees to visit the Philippine Pavilion at the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka on Yumeshima Island, affectionately describing it as a “home away from home” for all Filipinos and international guests.
