The Philippines Seeks to Attract Indian Tourists
The Philippines is making a strong move to become a top travel destination for Indians. Recent developments, like visa-free travel and direct flights, aim to make visiting easier and more appealing.
Starting October 1, Air India has launched direct flights from Delhi to Manila. This marks a significant milestone, especially after a decade-long hiatus. Philippines Ambassador to India, Josel F Ignacio, emphasized the importance of these changes. “Traveling should be seamless. With the direct flight, Indian tourists won’t waste time,” he stated.
In June, the Philippines introduced a visa-free travel policy for Indian tourists. This allows visitors to stay for up to 14 days without the usual visa hassles. “For many Indians, ease of travel is key. With rising incomes, they look for straightforward travel options,” Ignacio noted.
The appeal of the Philippines goes beyond convenience. Its stunning beaches and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination. Harsh Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, echoed this sentiment and mentioned ongoing discussions to establish more direct flights.
Recent data reveals a growing interest in the Philippines among Indian tourists. In 2024, about 79,000 Indians visited the country, with approximately 66,000 traveling there in the first nine months of 2025. Faye Agatha Mendoza from the Philippines Tourism Board is optimistic about these numbers. “There’s vast potential for increasing Indian tourist visits,” she stated.
Philippines Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the country’s unique offerings. “With over 7,600 islands and rich cultural experiences, the Philippines is unlike any other destination,” she remarked. The country is eager to increase direct flights to key Indian cities to further boost tourism.
Moreover, the Philippines is looking to attract Indian filmmakers to capture its beautiful landscapes. The strategic partnership established during discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr also reflects a growing bond between the two nations.
These efforts signal the Philippines’ commitment to becoming a go-to destination for Indian travelers, taking advantage of trends that highlight the importance of accessibility in travel decisions. As the tourism landscape evolves, countries understand that ease, convenience, and a rich cultural experience can make all the difference.
For more insight on travel data, you can refer to World Tourism Organization.
Source link
PHILIPPINES WOOING INDIAN TOURISTS, PHILIPPINES, PHILIPPINES WOOING INDIAN TOURISTS WITH VISA-FREE ENTRY, DIRECT FLIGHTS