Strengthening Collaboration to Boost Philippine Tourism

Robinsons Hotels & Resorts (RHR), the hospitality arm of Robinsons Land Corporation, reaffirmed its commitment to support Philippine tourism as its top executives paid a courtesy visit to Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco last February 6, 2025 at the DOT Central Office.

The visit served as a gesture of support for the DOT’s ongoing initiatives aimed at positioning the Philippines as a premier destination for international travelers.

RHR emphasized its dedication to contributing to the country’s tourism growth by leveraging its strategic portfolio of international and homegrown hotel brands, including Go Hotels, Summit Hotels, Grand Summit Hotel, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, The Westin Manila, and the luxury Fili Urban Resort Cebu at NUSTAR Integrated Resort Complex.

Led by Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager Barun Jolly, the RHR  expressed enthusiasm in aligning with the DOT’s promotional efforts to attract high-value travelers to the Philippines, particularly from emerging markets such as India. RHR’s premier properties are well-positioned to cater to the needs of discerning international guests, ensuring world-class hospitality experiences.

During the meeting, Secretary Frasco highlighted the vast potential of the Philippines as a destination for Indian weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events. With its breathtaking landscapes, luxury accommodations, and renowned Filipino hospitality, the Philippines continues to gain international recognition as a prime wedding destination, as demonstrated by Cebu’s accolade as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination at the 2024 World Travel Awards.

Additionally, Secretary Frasco emphasized the ongoing improvements in tourism infrastructure and accessibility, including the Philippine e-Visa system for Indian nationals and anticipated direct flights from India to Manila by 2025. These initiatives are expected to enhance travel convenience for Indian wedding planners and corporate event organizers, further boosting the country’s appeal as a global destination.

“We are eager to collaborate with the Department of Tourism to showcase the Philippines’ unique charm and exceptional hospitality to the world. Our strategically located properties are well-suited to support DOT’s vision of global competitiveness for tourist accommodations,” said Barun Jolly, Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager.

Joining Mr. Jolly during the visit were RHR Vice President Annalyn Yap and General Manager Jose Marie Delgado Ouano III. Secretary Frasco was accompanied by DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Verna Buensuceso, and Maria Rica Bueno; Assistant Secretaries Sharlene Batin and Judilyn Quiachon; and Director Arlene Alipio.