The town of Maloulaa in Syria

The Philippines is looking forward to a dynamic tourism relationship with Syria, with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)  signed between the two countries, which forges bilateral ties in tourism.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano noted, “Our outlook is bright for the year ahead, seeing positive changes and growth in all aspects of the industry.   We have indeed made progress from the initial talks with the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, and are delighted to seal our commitment with them towards tourism cooperation.”

An important pillar of both countries for its socio-cultural and economic dynamism, tourism is an excellent instrument to promote goodwill and to enhance business links between the Philippines and Syria, the MOU stated.  

“We are confident that the country is more than ready to cater to the needs and preferences of incoming Syrian tourists.   Moreover, the focus of the partnership is on establishing more programs for marketing and promotion, investment, and tourism development,” added Durano.   

Considered by historians as one of the fifteen states named as the ‘cradle of civilization,’ Syria boasts of a rich history with ancient cities and world heritage sites such as Damascus, Aleppo, and Bosra.

The highlights of their destinations complement that of the country’s natural beauty and our religious sites famous for spiritual celebrations and pilgrimages.

The Philippines has continued to encourage investment from emerging markets, in various types of tourism activities, such as accommodation, travel and tour services, product development, infrastructure, and environmental projects.

For the period of 2004-2009, notable new developments in tourism establishments have enabled the country to accommodate a constant increase of visitor arrivals, and niche markets such as the Middle East, are now tapped.  Halal certification training and seminars for hotels, restaurants, and tourism facilities are also continuously conducted by the Department.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr. said, “Syria and the Philippines will promote each other’s tourist attractions and destinations to their respective nationals and residents to encourage a two-way movement of visitors.”

Jarque also pointed out, “In particular, we shall focus our marketing in the areas of eco-tourism, promoting our nature-based destinations such as beaches, rivers, lakes, rainforests, and mountain ranges; as well as our national festivals that tell our rich and colorful history.”

Last year, in the spirit of cooperation and goodwill, media from the country were invited by Syrian Tourism Minister Engr. Saadalla Agha Al Kaala, to witness the historical Silk Road Festival, a reliving and retelling of the traditional Silk Road caravans.  Their country has played an essential role in spurring world trade, where early traders converged to barter goods and ideas.

“The trip was symbolic of the tourism exchange between the Philippines and Syria.  At present we are also finalizing arrangements for top travel and business journalists from Syria to come and experience the best of what Philippine tourism has to offer,” said Rolando Cañizal, Director of Tourism Development Planning.

“Our partnership with Syria also allows us to exchange training capacities, to help each other gain a greater understanding on tourism scenario and travel trends between our countries, thus look for more possible prospects,” added Cañizal.