CHINESE group tours and chartered flights are making a comeback to the Philippines after China ‘quietly lifted’ the travel advisory against the South-east Asian nation in May.
While China made no official announcement, it finally allowed the Philippine embassy to issue group visas to Chinese travellers eight months after it had issued the travel advisory in September 2014 over safety concerns.
Ramon De Veyra Jr, officer in charge, North Asia division, International Promotions Department of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), noted that from five chartered flights from China in April, there are now 20 chartered flights in operation and the number is still increasing.
From various points in China, these charters bring group tours to destinations including Kalibo, Legazpi City in Bicol and Laoag in Ilocos Norte.
De Veyra said that the TPB now hosts two to three fam trips monthly for the Chinese media and travel trade. TPB also plans to tap the luxury market, with consumer outreach plans already in the works.
With the travel advisory lifted, Cesar Cruz, president, Philippine Tour Operators Association, said that the Philippines “can now market and promote openly” in China.
He commented: "Chinese tourists can really compensate for the decreasing arrivals from certain countries including Russia and South Korea, the country’s biggest source markets, which for the first time posted decreases last year.
“They are a boost to Boracay, their main destination, and Cebu and hopefully, Manila,” he said, adding that the return of the Chinese tourists is likely to be felt more during the high season between December and February.
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