ASEAN tourism ministers have highlighted cruise tourism as a key market for attracting more foreign visitors to the region.
They urged member states to improve port connectivity, travel facilitation, safety standards, and sustainability practices while promoting multi-destination cruise itineraries.
In 2025, the Philippines welcomed 53,927 tourists by sea out of over 6.4 million total foreign arrivals, aided by the cruise visa waiver program.
The country has hosted cruise stops in Manila, Palawan, Boracay, Bohol, and other destinations, with plans to develop more world-class ports.
Ministers also recognized the growth of diverse tourism products, contributing to ASEAN’s 144 million international arrivals last year.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 1, 2026
ASEAN IDENTIFIES CRUISE TOURISM AS A MAJOR GROWTH SECTOR
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