Angara-Mathay brings decades of government service to the post, with a track record of advancing economic partnerships and supporting industry development, according to a statement from the Presidential Communications Office.
Strategic pick
Prior to her appointment, Angara-Mathay served as commercial counselor at the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo, where she led strategic partnerships with Japanese industries—one of the Philippines’ key sources of investment, technology, and tourism.
Her work in Japan focused on strengthening economic ties and translating international collaboration into concrete business opportunities for Philippine industries.
Her appointment signals the administration’s push to position tourism not only as a cultural showcase but also as a key driver of jobs, business growth, and regional development.
The government has been working to elevate tourism’s role in the broader economic agenda, recognizing its potential to generate employment and stimulate local economies.
Economic link
Throughout her career, Angara-Mathay has led programs that connect global partnerships to on-the-ground outcomes, supporting enterprise development, strengthening industries, and expanding opportunities for Filipino businesses—particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Her experience is expected to help bridge tourism with trade and investment strategies, reinforcing its role in national development.
Growth agenda
With her appointment, the administration aims to further align tourism with economic growth by attracting more investments, supporting local industries, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt across regions. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
