The Philippines underscored the need for deeper regional cooperation in tourism during the 63rd ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) Meeting held in Cebu City on Monday, urging ASEAN Member States to move forward as a unified region rather than competing destinations.

Chaired by Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, head of the Philippine NTO, with Singapore as incoming chair, the meeting gathered senior tourism officials and international partners to discuss long-term strategies for ASEAN tourism ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF).

Speaking on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Buensuceso emphasized that the future of ASEAN tourism depends on aligned strategies, shared standards, innovation, and a collective commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, in line with the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.”

She also called for regional discussions to result in concrete policies that support sustainability, digital transformation, and community-centered tourism, noting that decisions made at the regional level directly impact destinations, businesses, and livelihoods.

The Cebu meetings also marked a milestone with the formal inclusion of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th Member State. Cebu holds historical significance as the site where the ASEAN Cooperation in Tourism was signed in 1998.

A series of high-level tourism meetings will continue throughout the week at NUSTAR Convention Center while the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum will formally open on January 28 at the Mactan Shrine in LapuLapu City. Meanwhile, the three-day ATF TRAVEX, the travel trade component will take place from 28 to 30 January 2026 at Mactan Expo Center.