The Philippines surpasses 5 million foreign visitor arrivals in 2026
Stronger late-year demand and growing arrivals from China could support the country’s full-year tourism target.
Key takeaways:
- The Philippines surpassed 5m international visitor arrivals on November 4.
- Foreign arrivals grew by approximately 15 per cent year-on-year during the first 10 months.
- The United States remained the largest source market, followed by South Korea and Japan.
- The Department of Tourism is targeting at least 6.4m international visitors in 2026.
The Philippines.- The Philippines has surpassed 5 million international visitor arrivals so far in 2026, keeping the country on track to meet its full-year tourism target despite higher fuel prices, airfares and travel costs. According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), the milestone was reached on November 4. The number of visitors is tracking around 15 per cent higher year-on-year.
The United States remained the Philippines’ largest source market, with 986,343 arrivals in the first ten months of the year. South Korea followed with 870,980 visitors, followed by Japan with 429,544. China and Australia completed the top five source markets, contributing 394,394 and 291,811 arrivals, respectively.
Tourism Secretary Bernardita Angara-Mathay said the country expects a stronger performance during the final quarter of the year, traditionally a peak period for tourism demand, particularly for the Philippines’ beach and island destinations.
The DOT is targeting at least 6.4 million international visitors in 2026. International events are also expected to support arrivals during the final months of the year, including ASEAN-related activities. Growth in Chinese visitor arrivals has been supported by the Philippines’ 14-day visa-free entry scheme for eligible nationals arriving through Manila and Cebu.
