MANILA, Philippines — Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco  met with the new leadership of the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) to discuss its 2026 roadmap, which focuses on continued support for DOT programs and strategies including partnerships for training and education (4Ps: Partnership for Professionalism and Progress Program), support for the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), and the development of meaningful travel products that celebrate Filipino culture, heritage, and local livelihoods.

Secretary Frasco impressed on the importance of a strong and united tourism industry, and the critical role of tour operators as frontliners in shaping visitor experiences and driving inclusive growth across regions.

She welcomed PHILTOA’s continued commitment to aligning private-sector initiatives with government programs, noting that collaboration remains essential in strengthening market competitiveness, improving connectivity, and expanding tourism opportunities nationwide. The Tourism Chief also emphasized the thrust of the current DOT toward advocacy and tourism industry development and not only promotion.

The meeting also explored opportunities for joint initiatives in domestic and international promotions, capacity-building for MSMEs, and regional engagement anchored on the shared goal of delivering tourism growth that benefits communities and supports national development priorities.

PHILTOA officials present were Maria Lourdes Japson (President), Mary Ann Ong (1st Vice President), Harold Atondo (2nd Vice President), Erlinda Tan (Treasurer), Arjun Shroff (Auditor), Cecille Kimpo (Trustee) and Lynne Adante (Trustee).

DOT officials with Secretary Frasco included Undersecretaries Shahlimar Tamano, Ferdinand Jumapao and Maria Rica Bueno, Assistant Secretary Czarina Zara-Loyola, and HEA Frances Villarino.