DOT welcomes Japan’s lowering of travel advisory in parts of Mindanao

Metro Manila, Philippines – The government has welcomed Tokyo’s decision to downgrade its travel advisory in parts of Mindanao, a move that is expected to positively impact the tourism industry.

In a statement, the Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed optimism that Tokyo’s decision will increase tourism revenue and generate livelihood in related sectors.

“We are grateful to the government of Japan for this downgrading of the travel advisory in parts of Mindanao. This is a significant move that attests to the improved safety and security in the region as an aim to bolster tourism not only in the usual destinations but most importantly, in the emerging and lesser-known ones,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco in the statement.

The advisory for Davao region, which groups Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental, has been downgraded from Level 2 to Level 1. These areas now join Davao City, Tagum City, Samal, Mati, and Digos under Level 1.

Misamis Oriental is also under Level 1 alongside Cagayan de Oro City, Jasaan, Villanueva, and Tagoloan, which remain at the lowest classification.

In the Caraga region, Surigao City, a component city of the provincial capital, has been moved from Level 2 to Level 1, joining the Siargao islands at Level 1.

Meanwhile, in the Soccsksargen region, the eastern part of Sarangani province, which groups Malungon, Alabel, Malapatan, and Glan, was downgraded from Level 3 to Level 2.

Travel Advisory Levels:

Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions.

Level 2: Refrain from non-essential travel.

Level 3: Avoid all travel.

As of Dec 28, Japan ranked as the third-largest source of foreign visitors, with 378,935 Japanese nationals visiting the country.

“With this move from Japan, we wish that other nations will follow suit as the Philippines offers so much more than our sun and beach destinations,” Frasco said.