Limited flights a factor to why traveling domestic is pricier than to SEA countries—PTAA
Several factors, such as limited domestic flights, contribute to the higher cost of domestic trips compared to those to Southeast Asian countries, the Philippine Travel Agencies Association said.
In an interview with DZMM on Jan. 23, PTAA Vice President for Inbound Ellen Cobarubias addressed concerns about travels that have made the rounds online.
Former Commission on Elections commissioner Gregorio Larrazabal pondered on X who to convince Pinoys to travel to other parts of the country instead of to other ASEAN destinations.
"Make flights cheaper to destinations INSIDE the Philippines," he wrote.
TV host Bianca Gonzalez-Intal echoed this, sharing her own experience.
"We booked a trip to Siargao, and it is more expensive than a trip to Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Vietnam. Mas mahirap suportahan ang lokal na turismo dahil ang mahal," she wrote on X.
In a quick search on a budget airline, PhilSTAR L!fe found that a round-trip to Siargao in March can cost up to P12,000, while a flight to Hong Kong and back can start at P8,300.
Cobarubias acknowledged that domestic flights can be expensive sometimes.
"Limited kasi 'yung ating mga domestic flights, dito sa'tin, kakaunti ang players natin," she said, noting that factors like fuel cost also play a role.
The Philippines' archipelagic geography should also be considered, as boat transfers add to the cost, according to Cobarubias.
She shared that PTAA is coordinating with local government units to ensure a better tourist experience. "Kaya kami, nakikipag-ugnayan kami sa mga LGU no. Kung mababaan nila 'yung airport fees, terminal fees, malaking bagay ito."
For travelers looking to travel within the Philippines, Cobarubias advised booking their trips months ahead.
"Ngayon pa lang, mag-book ka na," she said. "Be smart. Ngayon pa lang, mag-plano ka na. Kasi sabay-sabay kayo may planong ganyan."
Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco has also addressed the matter, saying that she is calling on airlines to expand their fleet to carry more passengers.
"We need to be able to increase capacity para naman po mas lower pa pricing ng airline ticket," she said, as per ABS-CBN News.
