DOT, Arangkada Philippines eye bigger Tourism Investments

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is ramping up efforts to attract more investments in the country’s tourism sector, with Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco meeting with representatives of Arangkada Philippines, the advocacy arm of the Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC), at the DOT Central Office in Makati City on Tuesday.

The dialogue comes ahead of the 14th Arangkada Philippines Forum, set for September 25–26, 2025, which will bring together around 500 stakeholders from government, private sector, academe, and foreign chambers. This year’s forum will spotlight seven priority sectors, including tourism and creative industries, with the aim of promoting stronger foreign and local investments.

Frasco commended Arangkada Philippines for sustaining its annual forum for over a decade, citing its role in shaping policy dialogue and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. She underscored the need to translate discussions into concrete initiatives that will expand tourism-related investments, create jobs, and support inclusive economic growth.

“Tourism investments hold immense potential to uplift communities and empower Filipinos across the country. By working with partners like Arangkada, we can ensure that our policies and programs result in tangible opportunities for our people,” Frasco said.

Representing Arangkada Philippines at the meeting were Ms. Katie Stuntz, Senior Advisor of the American Chamber of Commerce and Project Director; Ms. Sarah Gomez, Grants and Research Manager; and Ms. Andrea Adorio, Advocacy and Engagement Specialist.

Also present were DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Verna Buensuceso, and Director Paulo Benito Tugbang.