Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco delivered a strong message on the interconnectedness of the Philippines’ maritime heritage and its economic destiny, emphasizing that the protection of marine resources is not just an environmental duty but an “economic imperative.”
Speaking at the opening of the Blue Economy Annual Trade and Conference 2025 (BEACON EXPO) at the SMX Convention Center, Secretary Frasco underscored the shared responsibility of protecting the nation’s vast waters, which are vital to both the tourism and maritime sectors.
“Our waters not only hold beauty, but also immense responsibility upon all of us because the Philippines is one of only 18 mega-biodiverse countries in the world, home to more than 500 species of corals and more than 2,000 species of fish,” Secretary Frasco stated. “To protect these resources is not only an environmental duty, but an economic imperative, for they are the foundation of both tourism and our maritime future.”
She called upon all stakeholders to collaboratively transform the Philippines’ rich maritime heritage into tangible opportunities for livelihood, pride, and national progress. This includes advancing key initiatives such as cruise and dive tourism, modernizing port infrastructure, and ensuring the simultaneous growth of the maritime and tourism industries.
Secretary Frasco also paid tribute to the nation’s seafarers and cruise workers, highlighting their crucial role as the backbone of the maritime economy. “Each ship that docks not only brings in tourists, it brings livelihood, investment, and pride to coastal communities… when the world sails, it sails with the strength of Filipino hands and the hospitality of the Filipino heart.”
The three-day BEACON EXPO 2025, themed “Protecting the Ocean: A Catalyst for a Sustainable Blue Economy,” is set to run from September 29 to October 1. The event serves as a premier platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation, showcasing advancements in maritime transportation, shipbuilding, naval defense, renewable energy, and marine environmental development.
The BEACON EXPO includes the 3-day Marino World Manning Expo & Conference, with a parallel 4-day BIAP In-Water Boat Show taking place concurrently at the Manila Yacht Club.
