MANILA—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday led the awarding of loan packages to nine micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector from the National Capital Region (NCR) and Calabarzon under the “Turismo Asenso Loan Program.”

The program, officially launched in July 2025, is a joint initiative of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) that seeks to provide accessible and affordable capital for the development of tourism enterprises.

During the awarding ceremony at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City, Marcos underscored the crucial role of tourism in driving inclusive economic growth and job creation.

“Isa na ang turismo sa mga haligi ng ating ekonomiya. Nagdadala ito ng kabuhayan at pag-unlad sa libo-libong maliliit na negosyo saan mang sulok ng bansa,” the President said.

“Kaya naman, patuloy ang pamahalaan sa pagsulong ng mga programang sumusuporta sa inyo,” he added.

Under the Turismo Asenso Loan Program, eligible MSMEs may borrow up to PhP20 million with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms through the DTI’s financing arm, the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp).

With this financial support, recipient enterprises are expected to grow their businesses, improve service quality to highlight Filipino hospitality, and create more sustainable livelihood opportunities for families and local communities.

Marcos also cited complementary government programs such as Negosyo Centers, Go Lokal!, Tourist Rest Areas, and trade fairs to help promote local products.

“Layunin ng mga ito na gawing simple, abot-kaya, at epektibo ang paghahatid ng serbisyo at pagbebenta ng produkto,” he said.

To ensure wider access to the loan program, the President urged implementing agencies to expand awareness, streamline application processes, and extend services to far-flung areas.

He also thanked tourism stakeholders, including workers, entrepreneurs, artists, and hospitality providers, for their contributions in promoting local culture and strengthening the Philippines’ global appeal.

“Saludo naman kami sa inyong lahat. Dahil sa inyo, mas lumalalim ang paghanga at pagkilala ng mga turista sa mga ipinagmamalaki natin dito sa ating bansa,” Marcos said.

According to the President, tourists nowadays prefer activities that connect them to local life, in which these stakeholders play a vital role.