MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines’ tourism industry generated over $1.1 billion (P65.3 billion) in January 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic earnings and signaling a strong recovery, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported.

The January 2025 revenue exceeded the $821 million (P43 billion) recorded in January 2019, reflecting a 136.1 percent increase in US dollars and a 151.46 percent surge in Philippine pesos compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco highlighted that the growth reflects not only the sector’s rebound but also its expansion.

“The recovery of Philippine tourism from the period of the pandemic in terms of revenues translates to thousands of jobs created for Filipinos, providing livelihood opportunities for many, especially in our rural and underserved areas,” Frasco said.

She added that the positive trend aligns with the Marcos administration’s goal of making tourism “inclusive and equitable” to empower local entrepreneurs and communities.

Surpassing 2024 revenues

January 2025’s earnings also significantly outpaced the same period last year. Compared to January 2024’s $652.2 million (P36.5 billion) in tourism income, the latest figures represent a 71.4 percent increase in US dollars and a 78.81 percent rise in pesos.

The DOT credited these figures to Visitor Sample Surveys, Arrival/Departure Cards, Shipping Manifests, and the eTravel System.

In 2024, the Philippines recorded its highest-ever tourism revenue, approximately P760 billion, solidifying the industry’s role as a key economic driver.

Frasco assured the DOT’s commitment to strengthening Philippine tourism, ensuring its resilience, and making the country a top global destination.

“As we move forward, our commitment to advancing Philippine tourism remains steadfast. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with industry stakeholders to innovate and promote the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” she said.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Early 2025

Meanwhile, 1,167,908 foreign travelers visited the Philippines in the first two months of 2025, with South Korea maintaining its status as the country’s top source of tourists.

As of March 1, 2025, South Korea accounted for 295,611 arrivals (25.31 percent of total foreign visitors). The DOT expects this figure to rise following the appointment of South Korean actor Seo In-Guk as the Philippines’ celebrity tourism ambassador in February.

Other top sources of visitors included:

• United States – 229,836
• Japan – 83,208
• Canada – 65,145
• Australia – 61,564
• China – 53,545
• Taiwan – 41,388
• United Kingdom – 34,451
• Singapore – 29,352
• France – 21,252