The travel, tourism, and hospitality industry (hereinafter collectively referred to as the tourism industry) has been recognized as a key pillar and driver of economic growth and development in the Philippines, contributing significantly to employment, foreign exchange earnings, regional, and local development (Supera et al., 2024; Roxas et al., 2020a; Rivera & Tuazon, 2018).
Given the abovementioned context, a Philippine Tourism Sectoral Review is both timely and necessary. Note that a sectoral review is a comprehensive analytical document that examines the current state, trends, challenges, and opportunities within a specific industry or sector. It provides a structured assessment of key performance indicators, regulatory and policy frameworks, market dynamics, and strategic recommendations for sectoral growth and development (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD], n.d.). This review seeks to provide a comprehensive assessment of the economy’s tourism sector, identifying high-potential tourism products and services, optimizing tourism circuits, and recommending strategic policies to transform the Philippines into Asia’s leading tourism powerhouse. By examining industry trends, policy gaps, and investment opportunities, this study aims to provide a roadmap for achieving a more competitive, sustainable, and resilient tourism sector. Furthermore, this review will align with the NTDP 2023-2028 and global best practices to ensure that the Philippines maximizes its tourism potential while fostering inclusive growth and long-term economic benefits.