Hit by a spell of uncertainty following recent events, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) has signed an agreement with the Federal Agency of Tourism of Russia outlining intentions to monitor situations and exchange information relating to the safety of tourists, among other goals.
The Joint Action Program of Tourism Cooperation, one of nine bilateral agreements inked by the two countries, is aimed at spurring tourism exchange on education and training, in addition to information and expertise.
Tulfo-Teo at the signing in Moscow (photo credit: DoT)
The agreement is a follow through of the two countries’ first agreement signed 11 years ago also in Moscow, and is likewise expected to expand tourist flows between the Philippines and Russia with both parties agreeing to assist each other in establishing contacts between their respective NTOs.
DoT secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo further disclosed that the Russian government is exploring the possibility of organising a Russian language training programme for Filipino tourism industry workers.
Teo commented: “The Russians are coming though – they are very particular about safety and security in any prospective destination. The agreement signifies Moscow’s confidence in the Philippine government’s capability to resolve peace and order issues.”
She noted that Russia is among the destination’s “high growth markets” posting 9,152 arrivals in January-February period this year, a 29.2 per cent increase from last year.
The proprietor of a Russian travel and tour agency VAND International, Svetlana Muromskaya, observed that the country has a growing Russian clientele. “Fifty per cent of Russians who go to the Philippines become repeat clients. They come back after a year or two.”
