Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay has called for a more coordinated push across the sector to sustain tourism’s role as a driver of inclusive economic growth, emphasizing its impact on livelihoods, enterprises, and communities nationwide.
In her first message to agency personnel, Angara-Mathay underscored tourism’s position as a key economic pillar and urged employees to uphold professionalism, accountability, and collaboration. She said the sector must continue to deliver broad-based benefits, with workers at all levels contributing through a shared sense of purpose.
On April 16, the tourism chief convened heads of the DOT’s attached agencies at its central office in Makati to align priority programs and initiatives.
Discussions focused on accelerating tourism investments and ensuring these are synchronized with the broader infrastructure and development agenda of the administration of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr..
Officials present included leaders from major tourism bodies such as the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Tourism Promotions Board, Intramuros Administration, and the National Parks Development Committee, alongside representatives from other attached agencies.
Angara-Mathay earlier convened the DOT Executive Committee following her oath of office, highlighting the need for clearer direction and tighter coordination as the department navigates an increasingly complex global landscape.
She noted that persistent uncertainty in the global environment requires steady leadership and sharper strategic alignment. Angara-Mathay closed by thanking DOT employees for their continued service and reaffirming the government’s commitment to advancing Philippine tourism as a cornerstone of inclusive growth.
