The deal was signed by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and South Korean Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Yu In-chon on Oct. 7, 2024 at Malacañang Palace. The signing was witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and President Yoon.
Frasco said the DOT welcomes the signing of the implementation program on tourism cooperation, which will further enhance the longstanding relations between the two countries in tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
“We anticipate this will increase demand for more Philippine destinations and tourism products from our number one source market, South Korea, and provide more opportunities for the economic advancement of our people, with the expected growth in our tourism numbers,” she said.
The renewed partnership will see both countries exchanging tourism professionals, sharing tourism safety information, and promoting joint marketing initiatives.
A joint working group will be formed to serve as a platform for both countries to ensure the discussion and enforcement of the program.
South Korea remains the top international source market for the Philippines, accounting for over 27 percent of total foreign arrivals as of October 2024, with 1.23 million South Korean visitors recorded this year.
“This partnership will not only bolster tourism exchanges but also contribute to the economic development of both nations,” Frasco said.
