Tourism between the Philippines and Japan proves its resilience amid the economic global scenario as activities still abound. In line with the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s efforts to intensify marketing campaigns for the Japanese market, DOT Team Japan and Cebu Pacific have developed a stimulus plan which includes direct flights to Manila from Osaka, accommodations, tours, and transfers.
“These are fruits of our partnerships with tourism establishments such as airlines, hotels, tour operators and service providers. During these challenging times, we see all the more that working together is important to spur growth in the industry,” said Ace Durano, Secretary of Tourism.
Since flights between Kansai and Manila by Cebu Pacific opened in November 2008, CEB currently flies direct from Manila to 28 domestic and 13 international destinations and from Cebu to 20 domestic and 4 international destinations.
Cebu Pacific’s stimulus package, launched second week of August for Osaka to Manila via Kansai International Airport, offers four days and three nights (4D/3N) from Y39, 800 to Y47, 800 or $422 – $507, which already covers round-trip fare with accommodation, transfers, and tours. Participating Kansai-based tour agents Overseas Travel Agency (OTA), Meitetsu World Travel (MWT), Club Tourism, Hankyu International Express (HIE) and Nokyo Kanko.
Durano added, “The stimulus packages for Japan are seen to further boost tourist arrivals to the country. Divers and nature enthusiasts would indeed marvel at the richness of natural wonders we have in the Philippines.”
Statistics from the Department of Tourism (DOT) reveal a 194% increase in tourism arrivals in Camarines Sur, while Cebu and Boracay posted a 2.3% and 6% growth, respectively. These destinations are acknowledged beach havens which continue to entice the Japanese market.
Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, shared, “Divers, eco-travellers, families and professionals on holiday are sure to be lured to the Philippines’ scenic beaches, dive spots, and other alternative travel destinations.”
“We have noted an increasing number of Japanese tourists looking for beyond-the-usual destinations and activities, which we readily offer here. Right on time for the holidays in Japan, we are confident that the stimulus packages will further encourage tourism activity which we are optimistic to sustain throughout the year,” Jarque added.
The DOT has been actively promoting diving, water sports, eco-adventures, heritage tourism, and long stays to the Japanese niche market. Through marketing activities in partnership with the Japan Travel Bureau – Business World Tokyo (JTB – BWT), the influx of Japanese tourists has notably increased.
Moreover, the Philippines remains acknowledged for our premier dive spots, ranking 5th Best Diving Area and landing in the Top 10 Most Desirable Destinations, in a recent survey conducted in Japan.
Dir. Benito Bengzon, Jr. said, “The travel trade is still confident that total outbound travel from Japan will continue with the on-going Obon holidays, held in honour of their ancestors, and Silver Week, celebrated in respect to the Japanese elders, which is the 3rd week of September.”
The thrice weekly flights from Kansai to Manila are expected to add roughly 537 seats a week between Japan and the Philippines or about 27,924 seats per year.
Cebu Pacific flies to Osaka every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 1:40 PM and arrives at 6:35 PM. Return flights to Manila take off from Osaka at 7:20 PM and arrives NAIA Terminal III at 10:15 PM.
