MANILA — January 29, 2026 — The DOT said discussions are ongoing to explore possible solutions that would make flights more affordable for Filipinos and foreign visitors. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the government is aware of the issue and is working closely with the DOTr and airlines to find ways to balance operational costs with consumer affordability.

According to reports, airfare in certain Philippine destinations has been observed to be higher than comparable routes in neighboring countries. This has raised concerns that travelers are opting to visit other destinations in Southeast Asia where flights are cheaper, potentially undermining the Philippines' competitiveness as a tourism hub.

The DOT noted that airfare pricing is influenced by several factors, including fuel costs, airport fees, taxes, and airline operational expenses. However, the agency acknowledged that there is room to improve transparency and coordination with carriers to ensure that prices remain competitive.

The issue has also caught the attention of lawmakers. Senator Erwin Tulfo recently urged the DOT to intensify efforts to reduce domestic airfare costs, arguing that high ticket prices discourage Filipinos from exploring their own country and limit the growth of local tourism.

Meanwhile, the DOT is finalizing measures to promote airfare transparency and strengthen consumer protection. These include requiring airlines to provide clearer breakdowns of ticket costs and coordinating with airport authorities to minimize additional charges.

Industry experts say that lowering airfare could significantly boost tourism, especially in provincial destinations that rely heavily on air connectivity. With the Philippines aiming to attract more international visitors and encourage domestic travel, the outcome of these talks between DOT, DOTr, and airline partners will be crucial in shaping the country’s tourism competitiveness in 2026.

For now, travelers are advised to monitor ongoing announcements from the DOT and airlines, as any changes in airfare policies could directly impact travel plans and costs in the coming months.