Philippines Wins Best Ports of Call 2024 Award, Launches Cruise Visa Waiver Program

The Philippines has been honored with the Best Ports of Call 2024 award at the 10th Asia Cruise Awards in Jeju Island, Korea. This recognition highlights the country’s efforts to rejuvenate its cruise tourism industry after the pandemic, driven by the Marcos administration’s focus on tourism.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized the importance of this award, noting it underscores the potential of the Philippines’ 7,641 islands to attract regional markets. “We are committed to expanding our cruise tourism offerings by working closely with government and private sector partners,” Frasco said.

In line with this achievement, the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Immigration (BI), has introduced the Cruise Visa Waiver (CVW) Program. This initiative aims to simplify visa processes for international cruise tourists, making the Philippines more accessible and attractive.

Frasco highlighted the CVW Program’s role in enhancing convenience and accessibility for cruise tourists. “This program opens up opportunities for all our regions, making the Philippines more welcoming to the world,” she stated. The program allows visa-required tourists arriving by cruise ship to enjoy a streamlined visa process, contributing to the goal of boosting foreign tourist arrivals.

DOJ Assistant Secretary Majken Anika Gran-Ong and BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco both expressed their support for the CVW Program, highlighting its significance for tourism, immigration, and the economy.

With 117 port calls expected in 2024 and nearly 70,000 Filipino cruise crew members globally, the Philippines is set to reinforce its status as a premier cruise destination.

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