The Philippines and Cambodia are expected to increase engagement in tourism, including joint promotions and marketing of destinations, after the signing of a new deal on Tuesday.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and visiting Cambodian Minister of Tourism Huot Hak signed the Implementation Program for 2025-2028, which builds on the existing memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation between the two nations.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) said the deal covers key initiatives, such as the exchange of tourism professionals, sharing of best practices in tourism development, joint promotional and marketing efforts, human resource development and training programs, and collaboration in tourism fairs, exhibitions, and other promotional activities.

A Joint Working Group will oversee the execution of the agreement.

“As we renew this vital agreement, we look forward to deepening our partnership with Cambodia in terms of shared tourism growth and development. This collaboration aligns with our National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 and supports the Philippines’ goal of expanding its tourism market and strengthening regional partnerships,” Frasco said in a news release.

Based on DOT data, the Philippines received 4,268 visitor arrivals from Cambodia in 2024.

She noted that the two nations share many commonalities, including a deep cultural heritage, diverse tourism offerings that highlight historical sites, pristine beaches, islands, and rich wildlife, as well as a “strong commitment to preserving our historical and natural treasures.”

“Both nations recognize the vital role of tourism in driving economic growth, making this renewed partnership a significant step toward greater collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mutual advancement in our tourism sectors,” Frasco said.

“Under the Marcos administration, we remain steadfast in strengthening international tourism linkages to further position the Philippines as a regional tourism powerhouse.”

The signed agreements were presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet in Malacañang on Tuesday.

The Marcos administration has strengthened international tourism cooperation through key agreements with various countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Japan, Thailand, and Qatar. (PNA)