Senator Mark Villar urged stronger government investment in the tourism sector during the Senate finance committee hearing on the proposed 2026 national budget.
He warned that the Philippines is falling behind its Southeast Asian neighbors and needs to improve competitiveness.
Villar noted that round-trip airfare to Siargao alone can cost P18,000, already equivalent to a full travel package in Vietnam.
He also pointed out that flights to Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand are often cheaper than local tickets.
To address this, the senator filed Senate Resolution No. 53 seeking an inquiry into high domestic fares and the Civil Aeronautics Board’s regulations.
He added that technical issues, such as airport capacity and runway length, also need solutions.
Villar stressed that investing in tourism infrastructure would not only attract more visitors but also generate jobs and boost economic growth.
“Sulit po ang investment natin sa infrastructure projects related to tourism. I hope that’s given consideration in the budget.”IMT
