DOT allots P1 B for promotion, marketing

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) has allocated P1 billion to support its  promotions and marketing programs this year.

Channeled to its attached agency Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the P1 billion budget was double what had been allotted in 2012.

TPB chief operating officer Domingo Ramon Enerio III told The STAR that “prior to 2013, the government was just setting aside P500 million for TPB.”

Enerio said the bulk of this year’s TPB budget would be funneled to the so-called “tourism branding” which aims to enhance and promote the Philippines’ image to the international tourism market.

But the TPB official pointed out that while efforts are being intensified to promote the Philippines as an attractive tourists destination, there should also be corresponding initiatives from other agencies of the government to improve the infrastructure in the main tourism spots in the country.

“We are optimistic that we can absorb as many tourists to our country but the question is..do we have adequate facilities like flights, resorts, hotels, to accommodate them,” he said, noting that they have been in close coordination with the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on this endeavor.

He noted that they are other airports, for instance, that could be developed to accept direct international flights aside from the Manila and Cebu International Airports.

“We have airports in Laoag, Clark, Puerto Prinsesa, Daraga, Iloilo, Cebu, Kalibo, Cagayan de Oro, Davao that are not being maximized and can accept direct international flights. But of course, we need to develop these facilities first and make them accessible to and from prime tourists destinations in the country,” he said.

The TPB executive also see the need to develop high-quality and high-value products that the country can offer to tourists.

“Tourists, both foreign and local, are looking for products that they could bring hope to their home countries. They are willing to buy even at a higher price if they like the products,” he said.