15/08/2026
ADVISORY
*TO: All DOT-Accredited Tour Operators in Metro Manila*
*SUBJECT: Strengthening Domestic Tourism Through Enhanced and Ready-to-Sell Tour Packages*
In view of the evolving global situation, particularly the continuing impact of the Middle East crisis on international travel, air connectivity, and consumer travel confidence, the Department of Tourism โ National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) encourages all accredited tour operators to strengthen their domestic tourism offerings and develop more competitive, flexible, and market-ready tour packages.
In this regard, all DOT-accredited tour operators are encouraged to undertake the following initiatives:
1. Curate compelling โhero visualsโ or money shots.
Tour packages should feature strong, high-quality visuals that immediately capture the destination experience and inspire travelers to visit. These may highlight iconic attractions, unique cultural experiences, gastronomy, activities, or other distinctive tourism offerings that can serve as the packageโs primary visual selling point.
2. Provide greater flexibility in booking options.
Tour operators are encouraged to offer packages with airfare and without airfare to provide travelers with greater flexibility and choice. This will allow clients to select packages based on their preferred airline, travel schedule, available flight arrangements, or budget.
3. Submit ready-to-sell โCulturalโ tourism packages.
DOT-NCR will collate ready-to-sell CULTURAL tourism packages developed by DOT-accredited tour operators for possible consolidation, promotion, and market development. Packages may feature heritage sites, museums, local communities, culinary experiences, arts and crafts, festivals, performing arts, and other authentic cultural experiences within Metro Manila and nearby destinations. They can be whole- or half-day tours.
All accredited tour operators are encouraged to actively participate and submit their ready-to-sell cultural tourism packages to the DOT-NCR for consolidation and further guidance on submission and promotion. Email to:
TO: [email protected]
Subject: Cultural Tourism Package_(Name of Establishment)
We'd appreciate if you can *submit on or before Aug 17, 2026*.
These initiatives are intended to reinforce domestic tourism, stimulate travel demand, support tourism enterprises, and provide Filipino travelers with attractive and accessible travel options amid the challenges posed by the Middle East crisis. By strengthening our domestic tourism products and making them more compelling, flexible, and readily available to the market, we can help sustain tourism activity and build greater resilience within the industry.
Let us work together in keeping tourism moving, strengthening domestic travel, and showcasing the diverse cultural experiences that Metro Manila and the Philippines have to offer.
