Frasco gains widespread support in tourism sector

CEBU, Philippines — Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has received more support from various tourism stakeholders, and local government units following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. s call for all Cabinet officials to submit courtesy resignations in line with efforts to  realign government with the people s expectations.

Expressions of support came from local government units in Cebu, including the municipalities of Badian and Oslob, as well as industry organizations like the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. and the Cebu Association of Tour Guides.

 Secretary Frasco s grassroots-centered approach has empowered LGUs, uplifted communities and set a strong foundation for a truly inclusive and resilient tourism industry in the Philippines. We stand with her in continuing this mission for the betterment of every Filipino,  read a statement from the municipality of Badian.

Other areas calling for her continued service as DOT chief include tourism and cultural offices, and associations of travel agencies and tour operators from Sorsogon, Boracay, La Union, Puerto Princesa, Rizal, Montalban, San Juan, Pampanga, CARAGA, Bohol, the National Capital Region, and Cagayan Valley.

National organizations have earlier expressed their support, including the Pacific Asia Travel Association Philippine Chapter, the Tourism Industry Board Foundation Inc., the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies, the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines, Lifestyle Travel, the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence trainers, and the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines.

Several individuals have also taken to social media to back Frasco, including local and national officials.

Maria Kartina Jessica Dy, national president of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas, likewise issued a public show of support. She cited Frasco s responsiveness to local leaders and her inclusive leadership style.

Dy said Frasco  has shown a leadership that listens and uplifts even those in the lower ranks,  and credited her with giving the Liga ng mga Barangay a voice in national policymaking.

 I sincerely hope that she continues to serve as Secretary of Tourism, as her leadership is not only inspiring but also essential in guiding the Philippines to even greater heights on the global stage,  Dy said.

Frasco was recently honored with the  Tourism Visionary Leadership Excellence Award  by Prime Group Global during the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines 2025.

Frasco welcomed the recognition, saying it acknowledges the Department of Tourism s efforts to promote the Philippines as a  Halal and Muslim-friendly destination  for two consecutive years. (CEBU NEWS)