Household expenditure share of domestic tourism spending Philippines 2012-2023

Household spending on domestic tourism in the Philippines gradually increased after the slump caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, this accounted for about 14 percent of the household final consumption expenditure, compared to just four percent in 2020.

Post-COVID tourism situation

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the tourism sector in the Philippines. Travel restrictions have been imposed to stop international travelers from entering the country to mitigate the spread of the virus. While international tourist arrivals significantly improved in 2023, the volume of travelers remained much lower than the pre-pandemic volume. Manila was also the main point of entry for international travelers coming to the Philippines, followed by Cebu. 

Outlook of the Philippines’ domestic tourism sector

The post-pandemic travel scenario has shown drastic improvements, not only in terms of passenger traffic but also from travelers’ perspectives. In the Philippines, a 2022 survey revealed that the increased price of traveling alongside health and safety-related issues were their main travel concerns. Meanwhile, among those who expressed a desire to travel in that year, most of them are traveling for leisure or holiday.