Philippines Boosts Cruise Tourism with New Infrastructure and Sustainable Initiatives

Published on December 16, 2025

The Philippines is also making efforts to emerge as the major force in cruise tourism in Asia. The Philippines has organized the Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC) Annual Regional Meeting. The event is of utmost importance to develop cruise tourism that is sustainable and inclusive. The Philippines is likely to emerge as a major cruise tourism destination due to its advantage of being centrally located and its efforts to develop cruise terminals and enhance port facilities.

The Philippines Hosts ACC Regional Meeting to Advance Cruise Tourism

The Department of Tourism (DOT) of the Philippines organized the Asia Cruise Cooperation’s Annual Regional Meeting, underscoring its focus on advancing cruise tourism in the region. The meeting brought together key stakeholders including destinations, ports, cruise operators, and other tourism-related entities to explore ways of improving the industry.

During the meeting, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco highlighted the importance of collaboration to benefit local communities and strengthen the tourism sector. She emphasized that the Philippines would continue to work closely with cruise lines to improve itineraries, share market insights, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The DOT aims to make the country a leader in the cruise tourism sector by promoting sustainable practices that benefit both tourists and local communities.

Strong Growth in Cruise Arrivals and Port Upgrades

The Philippines has seen remarkable growth in cruise arrivals over the past few years. In 2025, the country is set to receive 136 cruise calls, with a projected 43,369 passengers arriving at its ports—a 26.85% increase over previous years. This growth is a clear reflection of the Philippines’ rising popularity as a cruise destination in Asia. Manila remains the primary gateway for cruise ships, followed by Puerto Princesa and Boracay, which are emerging as key destinations within the country’s cruise tourism offering.

The Philippines is working on improving its infrastructure to handle the rising demand. Completed and ongoing projects are focused on enhancing port facilities in key areas such as Dapa (Surigao del Norte), Coron, Aklan, Camiguin, and Puerto Galera, with upgrades also happening at Manila South Harbor. These efforts aim to make the ports more accessible and provide a better overall experience for both cruise operators and passengers.

Additionally, the DOT, in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), plans to reconstitute the Cruise Tourism Development Committee in January 2026. This committee will implement the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy, ensuring that the Philippines is well-equipped to handle increasing cruise arrivals and maintain sustainable tourism practices.

The Philippines: A Top Destination for Cruise Tourism

The Philippines’ growth in cruise tourism is driven by its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the diverse experiences it offers. The country’s beaches, marine biodiversity, wellness tourism, and vibrant cultural heritage make it an appealing destination for tourists looking for both relaxation and adventure. The country’s recognition as the World’s Leading Dive Destination for the seventh consecutive year highlights its strong appeal for marine tourism, especially among divers and nature enthusiasts.

Secretary Frasco pointed out that cruise tourism in the Philippines isn’t just about increasing visitor numbers; it’s about improving the overall experience. “Cruise tourism is not only about arrivals; it is about the overall experience, jobs created, businesses sustained, and communities empowered,” she said. By emphasizing local culture, traditional festivals, cuisine, and unique traditions, the Philippines is creating immersive tourism experiences that help support local communities while enriching the traveler’s journey.

Promoting Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism

Sustainability is at the core of the Philippines’ cruise tourism strategy. The DOT aims to ensure that tourism growth in the region doesn’t come at the expense of the environment or local communities. This is achieved through initiatives focused on environmental conservation, responsible tourism practices, and community engagement. By ensuring that the benefits of tourism are distributed equitably, the Philippines is working to create a model of sustainable tourism that can be replicated in other regions.

The Philippines has been recognized in several international forums, including awards for being Asia’s Best Cruise Destination and Best Port of Call. These accolades reflect the country’s commitment to improving its cruise tourism infrastructure and ensuring a world-class experience for visitors. Hosting prominent international events like the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 and the ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2026 further underscores the country’s growing role as a leader in the global cruise industry.

Economic Impact and Job Creation in Cruise Tourism

The growing cruise tourism sector is having a positive impact on the Philippine economy. It’s creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and generating revenue that supports further development. From tour operators and local transport providers to hospitality businesses and local artisans, the cruise tourism industry in the Philippines supports a wide range of sectors. Additionally, the increasing number of cruise calls has led to a rise in demand for services such as shore excursions, shopping, dining, and entertainment, all of which contribute to the economy.

As more cruise ships dock in the Philippines, local communities have an opportunity to showcase their cultural heritage, local cuisine, and crafts. This creates a symbiotic relationship between tourism and local development, allowing residents to benefit from increased visitor spending while maintaining the authenticity of their cultural traditions.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Philippines as a Cruise Hub

With its favorable policies, improved infrastructure, and diverse tourism offerings, the Philippines is on track to become a leading cruise tourism destination in Asia. The collaboration between the DOT, cruise lines, and local communities is setting the stage for continued growth, attracting more international visitors while ensuring that tourism remains sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders.

The future of cruise tourism in the Philippines looks promising, and if the current trajectory continues, the country will further solidify its position as a key player in the Asian cruise market. As more travelers seek meaningful and sustainable travel experiences, the Philippines’ commitment to enhancing its cruise tourism sector will ensure that it remains a top destination for years to come.

Embracing a Sustainable and Thriving Cruise Tourism Industry

The Philippines is well-positioned to lead in cruise tourism in Asia, given the rich natural resources, commitment to sustainability, and investments in infrastructure. Emerging with solid, above-average tourist arrival growth, increased international recognition, and community-based engagement, the Philippines positions itself as a hub for responsible, inclusive cruise tourism. As the country grows and further enhances its offerings, it will be sure to attract even more visitors in search of memorable, sustainable travel experiences.