In an exclusive interview, Ana Manansala, Publisher of Experience Travel and Living, sat down with Niel Ballesteros, Attaché and Director for East Japan, to discuss the future of Philippine-Japan tourism. The conversation tackled the growth potential of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) market, the rise of golf tourism, and the increasing appeal of the Philippines as a wellness and retirement destination for Japanese travelers.
Ballesteros noted that while outbound travel from Japan has been sluggish due to the weak yen, government measures like wage increases and tax cuts are expected to boost disposable income, offering optimism for future travel growth.
On golf tourism, Ballesteros emphasized ongoing efforts in collaboration with Philippine golf directors to promote the country’s courses to international players. With direct flights to Clark International Airport (CRK) and expanding niche markets, the Philippines is becoming a prime destination for golf enthusiasts, ESL learners, and gastronomic tourists.
Moreover, on the subject of wellness and retirement tourism, Ballesteros mentioned Cebu as a favored destination for Japanese retirees, citing continued collaboration with the Philippine Retirement Authority and hospitals to cater to their needs. Additionally, preparations for the Philippines' pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka are underway, showcasing the country’s rich heritage through weaves and gastronomy.
Likewise, he projects a 150% increase in Japanese tourist arrivals by 2029, bolstered by influencer campaigns and mega familiarization tours for Japanese travel agents.
Stay tuned for the January 2025 issue of Experience Travel and Living, where the media outfit will explore these exciting developments in greater detail.
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