THE PHILIPPINES IS set to receive an estimated 127 cruise ship calls in 2026, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Tuesday, citing continued interest and “sustained engagement” from global cruise operators.
The initial projection comes as the government steps up collaboration with cruise stakeholders to support the sector’s recovery and long-term growth.
“Cruise tourism, for us in the Philippines, is not only about arrivals. It is about the entire Philippine experience—the jobs created, the businesses sustained, and the communities empowered,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said.
Through the end of 2025, the DOT expects 136 cruise calls to bring 43,369 passengers to Philippine ports. Manila remains the country’s primary cruise gateway, followed by Puerto Princesa and Boracay.
Speaking at the Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC) Annual Regional Meeting, hosted by the Philippines on Monday, Frasco underscored the importance of regional coordination in shaping the next phase of cruise tourism growth in Asia.
She said closer collaboration among destinations, ports, and cruise lines is critical to ensuring growth that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to host communities.
“If there is one lesson the ACC teaches, it is this: no destination succeeds alone,” Frasco said. “Collaboration across ports, cruise lines, and governments ensures every traveler’s experience is seamless, enjoyable, and meaningful.”
The Philippines will continue to engage cruise operators as partners in itinerary development, deepen the exchange of market insights and operational best practices, and better align the end-to-end visitor journey across destinations, she added.
Frasco also pointed to the rapid expansion of Asia’s cruise market, noting that millions of travelers are increasingly seeking distinctive experiences across the region.
“This meeting allows us to chart a course for cruise tourism that supports communities, generates jobs, and strengthens connections across Asia,” she said.
At the same gathering, Frasco highlighted Manila’s efforts to strengthen cruise tourism policy and infrastructure. The DOT said nearly 7,000 cruise visa waivers have been issued to date, easing entry requirements and improving accessibility for cruise passengers.
Port infrastructure upgrades are also underway. A cruise terminal in Jubang, Dapa, Surigao del Norte has been completed, while construction continues in Coron, Aklan, Camiguin, and Puerto Galera. Improvements are also ongoing at Manila South Harbor.
Looking ahead to 2026, Frasco said the government will reconstitute the Cruise Tourism Development Committee to enhance inter-agency coordination and advance the implementation of the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy.
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