The Department of Tourism (DOT) has partnered with Visa to push digital tourism forward in the Philippines. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and Visa Regional Head for Southeast Asia Bella Lai formalized the agreement during a ceremony in Makati City.
Data Insights to Strengthen Digital Tourism
Under the memorandum of understanding, the DOT will gain access to better tourism data. This information will help the agency refine programs, adjust strategies quickly, and create more traveler-focused experiences. Frasco said Visa’s global network strengthens the country’s momentum and supports the DOT’s long-term digital tourism goals.
Digital Support for MSMEs and Local Tourism Brands
The partnership also focuses on digitalizing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Visa will offer financial literacy programs, online tools, and digital payment support. These initiatives help small tourism businesses thrive in an industry that increasingly depends on digital solutions.
Frasco emphasized that digitalization now drives the democratization of travel. Because of this, the DOT is working closely with companies like Visa and Klook to help tourism businesses elevate and modernize their offerings.
Travelers Shift to Cashless Payments
Visa’s 2023 Global Travel Intentions Study shows that 97% of Asia Pacific travelers now prefer debit, prepaid, or credit cards over cash. Only 17% plan to bring foreign currency.
Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro said this shift matches the Philippines’ effort to build a cash-lite economy. He added that seamless digital payments make travel smoother and support local businesses.
Part of DOT’s People-Driven Tourism Strategy
The Visa partnership aligns with the DOT’s goal to create more people-driven promotions by 2026. The department continues to work with private sector experts to design better tourism programs. This new agreement follows a similar collaboration with Mastercard, strengthening the DOT’s path toward a fully digital tourism ecosystem.
Sources
- Philippine News Agency (PNA) – DOT partners with Visa for tourism data-sharing, promos
- Visa 2023 Global Travel Intentions Study
