The Department of Tourism (DOT) of the Philippines showcased the country’s commitment to becoming a premier cruise tourism destination at the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024, held on November 12 at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City. This significant event, themed “Advancing Asia’s Cruise Future,” brought together over 350 international delegates, including influential leaders from global cruise lines, port authorities, itinerary planners, and other stakeholders. For the Philippines, this was a pivotal opportunity to solidify its role as an emerging cruise hub in Asia.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who served as Guest of Honor, highlighted the Philippines’ robust efforts to advance the cruise tourism industry. In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco emphasized the nation’s unique appeal, which combines rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a commitment to sustainable tourism practices. She outlined the government’s initiatives focused on enhancing the country’s cruise infrastructure and creating a welcoming environment for international cruise lines.
Secretary Frasco pointed to major projects under the DOT’s strategic plan to modernize ports and improve tourism facilities to attract more international cruise ships. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to position the Philippines as a key player in Asia’s growing cruise industry, which has seen rising demand for sustainable and authentic travel experiences. “The Philippines is proud to showcase our tourism assets on the global stage,” Frasco said. “We recognize the cruise industry’s immense potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and provide new opportunities for local communities, and we are committed to working with industry leaders to create a thriving and sustainable cruise market.”
Key leaders from the cruise sector, including Mary Bond, Portfolio Director of Seatrade Cruise Group; Tim Jones, Vice President and Managing Director of Celebrity Cruises; Oliviero Morelli, MSC Group Cruise Division President for Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia; and Tsunemichi Mukai, President and CEO of Mitsui Ocean Cruises, attended the event. They discussed Asia’s increasing prominence in the global cruise market and explored opportunities for collaboration within the region. The conversations underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing sustainable growth and meeting the expectations of a new generation of cruise travelers.
The conference highlighted the Philippines as a desirable cruise destination and a vital component of the broader Asian cruise market. With ports that connect to popular tourist destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu, the country offers unique itineraries that cater to both luxury and adventure-seeking travelers. The Philippines’ focus on infrastructure and collaboration with local communities aligns with the international cruise industry’s pivot towards sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
Other notable Philippine representatives at the event included Governor Jose Miraflores of Aklan, Maria Margarita Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board, and several Department of Tourism Undersecretaries and Assistant Secretaries. Their attendance underscored the country’s unified approach to positioning itself as a premier cruise destination in the region.
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