Senator Erwin Tulfo again pressed the Department of Tourism (DOT) to push for lower domestic airfare, warning that pricey tickets are driving Filipinos to travel abroad instead of exploring local destinations.
During debates on the 2026 DOT budget, Tulfo noted that flying to places like Batanes or Tawi-Tawi can cost more than a round trip to Hong Kong.
Budget sponsor Senator Loren Legarda said DOT is working with transport and trade agencies to address high fares and finalize a code of conduct for online travel agencies to ensure fair pricing.
Tulfo cited 2025 data showing the Philippines lagging in Southeast Asia with only 3.96 million international arrivals, far behind Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia. He warned that expensive airfare remains a major barrier to boosting local tourism.
“This is the major hindrance to boost local tourism—the skyrocketing ticket prices. We have beautiful beaches in Basilan, and we have beautiful beaches in Jolo, Tawi-Tawi, and other parts of the country. We have a beautiful scenery in Batanes. Unfortunately, it is too pricey,” according to him.
Tulfo also pushed for more direct flights to provinces and stronger promotion of underrated destinations like Marinduque.IMT
