MANILA - Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco joined President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and fellow Cabinet members in New Delhi on Monday for a state visit to India to deepen cooperation between the two countries across key sectors, including tourism, trade, investment, and connectivity.

The visit marks a significant milestone in the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and India.

“We are honored to be part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to India, as we strengthen bilateral ties and unlock greater opportunities for tourism cooperation,” Frasco said in a statement.

“The Department of Tourism has placed strategic focus on the Indian market, recognizing its vast potential—from enhancing connectivity and visa facilitation, to promoting travel experiences for Indian tourists,” she added.

As part of the delegation, Frasco is expected to hold a series of high-level meetings with Indian stakeholders in business, aviation, tourism, and entertainment.

She is scheduled to meet with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, India’s oldest and largest business chamber, to discuss strategies for increasing Indian tourist arrivals in the Philippines.

Frasco will also engage with executives from India’s flag carrier, Air India, and its largest low-cost airline, IndiGo, to explore the enhancement of direct flight connectivity between the two countries.

Additional meetings with hotel operators, resort developers, and travel companies aim to create strong linkages for tourism growth.

Another key agenda item includes a potential collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation Limited, India's state-run film body, as the DOT eyes opportunities in film tourism—a move that could bring Indian film productions to Philippine shores.

India remains a high-growth source market for Philippine tourism, and the recent visa-free entry policy is expected to significantly improve the country’s competitiveness as a travel destination among Indian tourists.

Frasco said more employment and livelihood opportunities for Filipinos nationwide are anticipated as the state visit underscores broader diplomatic and economic efforts to elevate the countries’ relationship through cross-sectoral collaboration and people-to-people exchange. (PNA)