This week the Bicameral Conference Committee of the Philippines has approved the Bayanihan 2 Bill, which will mean an allocation of US$206 million for the tourism industry. This is an important economic relief for the sector that keeps on foot one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
According to the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT), the Bayanihan Act 2 measures will safeguard micro, small and medium establishments in the tourism sector.
“The recognition of the tourism sector by the Senate and House of Representatives, in the Bayanihan Act 2 measures, ensures the survival of our MSMEs since 99.9% of the 144,640 establishments in accommodation and food service activities are considered micro, small and medium, according to 2018 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority”, a DOT statement said.