Israel Tourism Minister Haim Katz and Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina Garcia Frasco signed today a joint declaration to foster cooperation in the field of tourism between Israel and the Philippines.
Minister Katz’s official visit to the Philippines from December 2-5 is part of a strartegic effort to enhance tourism relations between the two countries.
“We are excited to see such strong interest from Filipino travelers to Israel,” Minister Katz said. “With the upcoming Jubilee Year, we anticipate even more Filipinos will be eager to experience the holy land and the rich history, culture, and hospitality Israel offers. We hope to see direct flights between Israel and the Philippines very soon; this will boost tourism and people to people exchange.”
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss described the official visit of Minister Katz as proof of the strong, historically friendly bilateral relations between the two countries, especially in the field of tourism. “I hope that this will encourage tourism exchanges between our nations, particularly with the visa-free travel for Filipinos to Israel and vice versa. I invite Filipinos to experience Israel not just as the Holy Land but to enjoy culinary and experience the Land of Innovation and Start-Up Nation,” he said.
Minister Katz’s visit also highlights Israel’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Philippine market, especially for divers and nature lovers. “Israelis find the Philippines an attractive destination for diving and water activities,” Ambassador Fluss noted.
Since opening its tourism office in the Philippines in 2017, Israel has witnessed a remarkable 65 percent rise in Filipino visitors in its first year alone. In 2023, a record-breaking 33,000 Filipinos traveled to Israel.
During his stay in the Philippines, Minister Katz will also promote Israel as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and engage with Filipino distributors of Israeli wine.
Furthermore, he will meet with the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) and connect with Christian leaders in Manila.
Lastly, he will hold discussions with the Philippine Airlines (PAL) President to advance the goal for establishing direct flights between Israel and the Philippines, an initiative aimed at making the travel between the two countries more convenient and accessible.
