Garin calls DOT, agencies to boost tourism, allow visa-free visits of Chinese nationals

HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin urges the Department of Tourism (DOT) and other related agencies to implement initiatives that will boost the tourism industry.

Garin’s call was made after Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia had mutual agreement with People’s Republic of China, waiving visa requirement to visit their country and vice versa.

“Kailangan mas paigtingin pa ng DOT at iba pang ahensya ang ating turismo lalo na’t marami sa kalapit nating bansa ay nag-alis na ng visa requirement para sa mga Chinese national,” the lawmaker said.

“While we have a lot of tourist spots and our hospitality is one of a kind, it should be coupled with less bureaucracy and better facilitation,” Garin added, emphasizing that the country has collateral services such as food, resort and souvenirs.

Garin furthered that it would be crucial for the DOT and other agencies to invest in readiness, ensuring that their strategies align with evolving traveler preferences.

She emphasized that a thriving travel and tourism sector will not just contribute to the prosperity of our national economy but also cultivate inclusive growth.

“Kapag lumago ang ekonomiya, tataas ang employment rate, tataas din ang antas ng pamumuhay ng mga Pilipino,” she said.