DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco warmly welcomed the Ambassador of Brazil to the Philippines, His Excellency Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, on Monday (March 3) at the DOT Central Office in Makati City.
During the courtesy visit, Secretary Frasco and Ambassador de Moura discussed expanding the tourism collaboration between the Philippines and Brazil.
They agreed to explore opportunities to promote cultural exchanges, advance sustainable tourism initiatives, exchange insights, while sharing best practices in product and market development, and enhance connectivity between the two nations.
Secretary Frasco is optimistic about deepening partnerships with brazil to further elevate the Philippine tourism industry.
She highlighted the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and renowned Filipino hospitality, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening tourism development in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directives.
Ambassador de Moura reaffirmed Brazil’s dedication to fostering mutual tourism growth and conveyed enthusiasm for future collaborations that would benefit both Filipino and Brazilian travelers. He was joined by Secretary Igor da Motta Magalhães Carneiro of the Embassy of Brazil, who emphasized Brazil’s increasing interest in Southeast Asian destinations, including the Philippines.
Secretary Carneiro noted that Brazilian travelers are eager to invest in high-quality tourism experiences and acknowledged both the opportunities and challenges in expanding bilateral tourism cooperation.
In 2024, the Philippines recorded a total of 5,949,350 international visitor arrivals, with Brazil ranking as the country’s 50th largest source market, contributing 5,194 arrivals from January 1 to December 31.
Brazilian travelers primarily visit the Philippines for leisure, and are drawn to its diverse islands, pristine beaches, and unique tourism offerings. Given Brazil’s growing interest in Southeast Asia, both parties see significant potential in strengthening tourism ties.
Joining Secretary Frasco during the meeting were DOT Undersecretaries and Chief of Staff Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Verna Buensuceso, and Ferdinand Jumapao.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook Page.
