The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Monday backed calls to pass the CREATE More bill, seeing it as a way to expand tourism investments in the country.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco made the statement following the third State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who reaffirmed the government’s focus on developing tourism as a major contributor to job generation.

“This legislative measure paves the way for a viable fiscal landscape for service-oriented enterprises such as in the tourism industry by providing incentives that is aligned with their operational needs,” Frasco said.

Frasco said the bill encourages the growth and expansion of tourism investments by the private sector through DOT’s investment promotions arm, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority.

The CREATE More or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy is one of the bills approved as “top priority” by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council in June.

It aims to improve the current regulations by enhancing the tax and administrative incentives available to companies and clarifying rules on implementing VAT incentives.

Frasco said Marcos’ focus on advancing other tourism-related policies, such as infrastructure development, e-Visa implementation, and introduction of E-gates also represent a significant advancement for Philippine tourism and stands to enhance its competitiveness as a destination.

The push to modernize Philippine airports elevates the overall service quality for travelers and at the same bolsters the country’s appeal as a “premier tourism spot” in the region, Frasco said.

In his SONA, Marcos also highlighted the potential of promoting “experiential tourism” against the backdrop of the numerous Philippine destinations that can give tourists a glimpse into Filipino culture, food, heritage, and arts, among others.

Likewise, he noted the need to employ a “multifaceted strategy” in the face of evolving challenges in the tourism sector.

“This resonates with our ongoing efforts to promote our culture and identity and aligns perfectly with the strategic direction we have been actively pursuing anchored on the National Tourism Development Plan 2023 to 2028,” Frasco said.

The DOT has been showcasing the country’s diverse tourism offerings through programs like the Philippine Experience Program, The Philippine Eatsperience, The Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Training Program, Tourist Rest Areas, and the development of specialized tourism segments such as Dive Tourism, Gastronomy Tourism, Cruise Tourism, and Halal Tourism, among others.

“Through these endeavors, and collaborative initiatives under the inspiring leadership of President Marcos, we are dedicated to showcasing to the world the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” Frasco said. (PNA)