The Philippines remains committed to investing in tourism and improving the travel experience for tourists, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos said Friday. The First Lady made the assurance before the tourism stakeholders, including business leaders, at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Tourism Night at New World Makati Hotel. Mrs. Marcos said the administration recognizes the tourism sector as a key economic driver, which contributed 8.9 percent to the country’s 2024 Gross Domestic Product. “So, this is why this administration is investing in better airports, stronger connectivity, and smoother travel experiences,” she said. “As my husband always says, more tourists, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people. Needless to say, this cannot be done without the private sector. So, on behalf of my husband, thank you very much to all of you,” she added, acknowledging the 16 MOPC awardees. The 16 MOPC Grand Tourism awardees are Sonya’s Garden, Rodeo Masbateño, New World Hotel Makati, Shangri-La Hotel The Fort, Rajah Tours and Travel, Discovery World Corporation, Clark Development Corporation, Globe Telecom, GT Capital Holdings, Aboitiz Infracapital, Alliance Global Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, and MVP Group of Companies. Representatives and presidents of the firms and organizations received the recognition, including San Miguel Corporation chair and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramon S. Ang, Alliance Global Group CEO Kevin Tan, and Aboitiz Infracapital head of airports business Rafael Aboitiz. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said tourism’s gains and role in the employment of nearly seven million Filipinos under the administration “are not by accident.” “These have been the result of deliberate strategic interventions to ensure the long-term resilience of the industry,” she said. Mrs. Marcos was also feted with the MOPC Transformative Power Award. PNA PHOTO