BAGUIO CITY – Tourism in the Cordillera region is not just about numbers—it’s about changing lives! According to the Department of Tourism in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), the growing number of visitors is creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and improving communities.
More Tourists, More Opportunities!
In 2024, the Cordillera region welcomed 1,983,511 tourists, an increase from 1.68 million in 2023 and 1.28 million in 2022. This surge in visitors has pumped PHP 10.72 billion into the local economy!
DOT-CAR Director Jovita Ganongan explained that foreign tourists spend around PHP 7,000 per day, while local tourists spend about PHP 4,000. And since most visitors stay two to three days, their total spending benefits hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, tour guides, and transport services.
“Tourism doesn’t just bring visitors; it brings opportunities. Every tourist needs a place to sleep, eat, and buy souvenirs, creating jobs and income for locals,” Ganongan said.
Who’s Visiting the Cordillera?
Europeans love the provinces of Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province, while Baguio City is a favorite among Americans.
In 2024, the top foreign visitors were:
- French tourists: 8,829
- Americans: 5,325
- Germans: 4,706
Government Support & Infrastructure
To support the booming tourism industry, the government has built 376.33 kilometers of new roads at a cost of PHP 11.47 trillion from 2012 to 2024.
Under the leadership of DOT Secretary Cristina Garcia-Frasco, the department has also prioritized tourist-friendly rest areas with clean comfort rooms. So far, four have been built in Cordillera:
- One in Mountain Province
- Two in Ifugao
- One in Baguio City
Ganongan emphasized that aside from roads and facilities, the DOT is also investing in training local workers to improve hospitality and service standards.
“We are building not just roads but also people’s skills to ensure that both local and foreign visitors experience the best of Filipino hospitality,” she said.
With the tourism industry thriving, more locals can expect better jobs, stronger businesses, and a brighter future in the Cordillera region! 
