P6.4 billion earmarked for tourism road infrastructure in 2025

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

The national government has allocated P6.4 billion for the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP) in 2025, aiming to enhance access to tourist destinations across the country, according to Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo.

The funding is set to build on the P15.2 billion already earmarked for the program in the 2024 General Appropriations Law.

Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, vice chairperson of the House committee on tourism, announced on Sunday that Congress is committed to bolstering the development of access roads and bridges to key tourism sites nationwide.

“We have the sum of P6.4 billion for the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP) in the 2025 national budget,” Rillo said. “Congress is determined to provide all regions across the country ample support to upgrade their access roads and bridges leading to their tourism sites.”

Rillo emphasized that this initiative aligns with the Constitution’s mandate to ensure that all sectors of the economy, including tourism, and all regions are given optimal opportunities for development.

The additional funding will supplement the ongoing TRIP efforts, which have already received a significant P15.2 billion allocation for 2024.

Rillo also highlighted the immediate benefits of these infrastructure projects for local communities.

“The infrastructure projects create construction-related jobs that readily benefit low-income families,” he noted.

“More importantly, the improved road access will boost tourist passage, thus spurring new jobs in accommodation, transport, food and beverage services, entertainment, and other activities.”

The TRIP is a joint effort between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), ensuring that the projects chosen for funding are those not covered by other sources.

The TRIP’s continued funding comes as the Philippines sees a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals.

The Department of Tourism reported that 3,276,731 foreign tourists visited the Philippines from January to July 2024, marking an 11.5% increase from the same period in 2023. The top visitors were South Koreans, followed by Americans, Chinese, Japanese, and Australians.

The sustained investment in tourism infrastructure is expected to further bolster these numbers, enhancing the country’s appeal as a top travel destination in Asia.