PH tourism reclaims momentum, Mapúa's tourism programs help drive growth

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SUPPORTING TOURISM Mapúa University’s new programs of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management are more than an academic expansion; they are concrete solutions that will empower the country to attain a better and more sustainable tourism industry in the future. PHOTO FROM MAPUA UNIVERSITY

A FEW years ago, the idea of traveling overseas and exploring distant places seemed an elusive dream. The pandemic didn't just slow tourism down; it was brought to a standstill, grounding airlines and forcing travel bans. Despite these restrictions, the tourism and hospitality industry adapted.

Hotels partnered with local government units and other organizations to accommodate displaced seafarers and overseas Filipino workers. At the same time, food businesses created cloud kitchens to supply meals to employees compelled to stay at offices, while strictly adhering to strict health and safety guidelines.

Operating at the bare minimum, the global health crisis led the tourism industry to lose momentum. Fortunately, through sound management and government support, the sector has been getting back on track and is among the main drivers of the country's economic development.

Today, the numbers paint a promising story. Tourist arrivals in the Philippines rose to 5.95 million in 2024, a 9.15 percent increase over the previous year's 5.45 million. Foreign tourist arrivals are up 5.44 million or 8.70 percent versus the five million in 2023. What's more remarkable is how these recent figures have vastly improved from the 2.65 million arrivals in 2022.

While the industry is steadily recovering, the way we travel has changed. Health and safety remain a top concern among travelers, followed by political stability, safety and tech-enabled services for transactions and communications. While economic factors greatly influence travel decisions, tourists value cultural or natural attractions that are authentic and unique. They seek meaningful experiences that the Philippines can undoubtedly provide through its numerous festivals, traditions, culture and breathtaking natural wonders.

Lora Lee French-Reboton, Mapúa University's dean of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, said the uniqueness of the Filipino culture is enticing to visitors. She also explained the importance of the Department of Tourism (DoT)'s themed promotions such as "Love the Philippines," highlighting traditions, practices and traits to set Filipinos apart from their Asian neighbors. Filipinos' inherent hospitable nature and English proficiency are also a plus among travelers.

Dean Reboton explained that the tourism and hospitality industry anticipates steady growth in the next five to 10 years, as the DoT projected. Using its lessons from the pandemic, businesses have become more prudent and agile in their operations, adopting a holistic perspective.

However, to do this, the country needs enhanced infrastructure to support tourism. The country also needs more expert tourism professionals to expand its reach and ensure that inbound travel for both foreign and Filipino tourists is consistently a delightful experience.

This is where institutions such as Mapúa University come in. Known for its legacy of academic excellence and commitment to building the future, Mapúa has designed new BS Tourism Management and BS Hospitality Management programs that transform students into industry leaders who are bold, capable and dedicated to helping elevate the standards of Philippine tourism.

These new tourism programs combine theory with real-world exposure, leveraging the university's local and international partnerships and collaborations. Students don't just learn the ropes and routes of the industry; they're trained to innovate within it. Learners gain real-world insights from faculty members who are active in the sector. They develop an attitude of service excellence and are trained to become social entrepreneurs committed to the environment, people and business.

Both programs integrate the newest technology to ensure that its digital native students remain conversant in the latest tools. Learners gain a distinct advantage by studying in the newest Mapúa campus located within Seda Hotel, Manila Bay in Aseana Estate, an immersive learning environment outfitted with industry-grade equipment and real-world hospitality settings. This setup allows students to seamlessly bridge theory and practice, applying classroom concepts in professional-standard spaces from day one.

To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/ask-us-at-mapua. Ready to enroll? Visit admissions.mapua.edu.ph/portal and begin a journey to world-class education.