Public Statement by Victor Lim, President of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII)
The recent candid and courageous remarks of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” C. Remulla at the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association’s (HSMA) Summit deserve the highest commendation.
In an era where political rhetoric often obscures uncomfortable truths, his forthright acknowledgment of the challenges facing Philippine tourism demonstrates the kind of leadership that prioritizes progress over pretense.
The FFCCCII stands firmly in support of his call to confront the systemic issues undermining our nation’s potential as a premier global destination.
The Philippines possesses unparalleled competitive advantages in the ASEAN region: Our world-renowned Filipino hospitality, the breathtaking natural beauty of our islands, our widespread English fluency, a vibrant culture of arts and entertainment, and a tropical climate that beckons travelers year-round.
Tourism should be the crown jewel of our economic development—a catalyst not only for urban prosperity but for rural progress, job creation, and environmental stewardship. Yet, as Secretary Remulla rightly noted, we languish at sixth place in ASEAN tourist arrivals, a staggering underperformance given our natural and human capital.
The numbers speak plainly: while Thailand welcomed 36 million visitors in 2024 and Malaysia 25 million, the Philippines attracted a mere 5.95 million foreign tourists.
This is not a failure of appeal but of assurance—travelers do not doubt our beauty; they doubt their safety. The perception of instability, fueled by crime, political turbulence, and a perceived culture of impunity, has cast a shadow over our global image. If we are to compete, we must act decisively.
The Path Forward: Security, Accessibility and Public-Private Partnership
1. Peace and Order as National Priority. The FFCCCII fully supports Secretary Remulla’s call for an uncompromising, nationwide security drive, particularly in tourist hotspots. As the business community, we stand ready to support DILG initiatives through community engagement, technological investments in surveillance, and collaboration with local businesses to ensure safer environments for visitors and citizens alike.
2. Competitive Visa Policies. We echo Secretary Remulla’s position that ASEAN neighbors thrive by simplifying entry for key markets. There is urgent need to streamline visa processes for East Asian tourists and investors – particularly from China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan – who represent immense untapped potential.
3. Infrastructure and Connectivity. Seamless travel requires modern airports, efficient transport links and digital-ready tourism services. We commend the DILG’s efforts to coordinate with local governments and support public-private partnerships that accelerate development of gateways beyond Manila.
4. Narrative Rebranding. Beyond addressing security concerns, we must aggressively rebrand the Philippines in global media. The DILG’s leadership in showcasing not just our natural wonders but also our stability and warmth is crucial to changing perceptions.
Secretary Remulla’s vision serves as a rallying cry for national action. The FFCCCII, representing the dynamic Filipino Chinese business community, pledges its full cooperation in this mission.
We call upon all sectors—national agencies, local governments, law enforcement and the tourism industry—to unite behind the DILG’s leadership in transforming the Philippines into ASEAN’s tourism leader.
The time for excuses is over; the time for action is now. Together, let us ensure that the world doesn’t just hear of our beauty—but experiences it without fear, and returns to celebrate it again and again.
