THE PHILIPPINES needs to improve its infrastructure and ensure the safety of its visitors to solidify its spot as a promising tourism destination, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) said.

“The Philippines, while a promising destination, faces challenges in advancing alongside regional counterparts, particularly in expanding hotel infrastructure,” ECCP President Paulo Duarte at a luncheon meeting on Wednes-day.

According to Mr. Duarte, improving digital and physical connectivity is also crucial in linking Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

“However, infrastructure alone is not enough. To truly elevate the tourism sector, we must also focus on ensuring the safety and security of visitors, a critical element for building long-term trust and attracting repeat travelers,” he added.

Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina G. Frasco concurred about the need to elevate the quality of infrastructure.

“We do not enjoy the advantage that our neighbors have in the ASEAN in terms of international land travel. Over 99% of our international tourists are dependent on air travel,” she said.

“Hence, it has been an advocacy of the DoT to work with our fellow government agencies, including the Department of Transportation, to focus on building up infrastructure and connectivity,” she added.

According to Ms. Frasco, the Philippines is expecting Air India flights to begin later this year.

“The National Government is in full support of welcoming this inaugural flight from India,” she said.

“We are looking at India as a huge potential source market for the Philippines,” she added.

Citing the recently launched direct flights by Air France, she said there is encouraging momentum in building up a European source market.

“We’re hopeful that other destinations from Europe and other carriers can follow suit,” she said.

“We’re also hoping to be able to further increase routes to the Middle East,” she added.