Business

Asian Institute of Management’s Dr. Andrew L. Tan Center for Tourism Associate Director John Paolo R. Rivera attributed the growth in tourism’s contribution to the reopening of tourism activities.

“This is also driven mostly by domestic tourists, who eagerly want to travel after being cooped up in their homes during the lockdowns,” Mr. Rivera said in an e-mail interview.

The government loosened mobility restrictions in the Philippine capital and nearby areas late last year, as COVID-19 infections dropped and the vaccination rate increased. This allowed many hotels, resorts, restaurants and other tourism-related facilities to reopen, albeit at lower capacity last year.

Mr. Rivera said tourism sector’s growth can further improve this year once more foreigners visit the country for tourism.

Philippines AirAsia, Inc. said the adjustment in the fuel surcharges will help cushion the impact of volatile global oil prices on airlines.

“AirAsia remains committed to offering best value for money deals for flights, SNAP (flight + hotel bundle) and other products housed on the AirAsia Super App to provide our guests with affordable options during their travels. We are optimistic that the adjustments in fuel surcharges will not affect the booking behavior of our guests who have been wanting to rediscover the Philippines and key destinations in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations),” a company representative said in an e-mailed statement.

Starting this month, airlines are allowed to collect fuel surcharge under Level 7 or the highest level in a fuel surcharge matrix approved by the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).