The Department of Tourism (DOT) is strategically positioning the Philippines as a leading destination for global health and wellness travel, a commitment reaffirmed by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in a recent high-level meeting.
Secretary Frasco met with Mr. Hadi Malaeb, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of the Agora Group, on Wednesday (Dec. 3) at the DOT Central Office to discuss accelerated strategies for the sector’s growth. The Secretary emphasized the country’s distinct competitive advantage, which rests on the globally recognized “Filipino brand of care” coupled with rich tourism offerings.
“What we (Philippines) offer is excitement and newness, as well as the unique qualities that are inherent in the country and in our people that cannot be found or replicated anywhere else,” Secretary Frasco stated. This unique value proposition, she noted, makes the Philippines an emerging key player in the health and wellness tourism sector.
The DOT’s forward-looking strategy not only aims to actively promote premium wellness offerings and destinations but also to provide a critical global platform for local tourism stakeholders to thrive. This mission builds upon the successful collaboration between the DOT and the Agora Group, which co-hosted the 2nd International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress in 2024. The Congress proved instrumental in forging vital partnerships between international and local players in the sector.
Also present during the meeting were Directors Glenn Albert Ocampo, Paulo Tugbang, and Judy Dela Cruz Gabato.
