Canada, Philippines sign tourism pact to boost travel, economic ties

Canada and the Philippines have signed a new agreement aimed at strengthening tourism cooperation, marking another step in expanding ties between the two countries.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed in Vancouver on July 3, establishes a framework for the two countries to collaborate on tourism by sharing information, data and best practices to support growth in the sector.

The agreement was signed by Canada's Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), Rechie Valdez, and the Philippines' Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

“This agreement with the Philippines builds on the strong ties our countries already share and creates a foundation for even greater tourism, investment and economic growth,” said Minister Valdez in a press release.

“For our many kababayans with family and deep roots in the Philippines, it also creates more opportunities to reconnect with loved ones and celebrate the ties that unite our communities. As we build the strongest economy in the G7, partnerships like this help Canadian businesses reach more people, welcome more visitors and create prosperity that is felt in communities across the country.

According to the federal government, the partnership is designed to reinforce tourism's role as an economic driver, helping create jobs, support small businesses and generate new opportunities for workers and communities in both countries.

The tourism agreement also complements broader efforts to deepen economic cooperation, including ongoing negotiations toward an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Canada free trade agreement and a separate bilateral free trade agreement between Canada and the Philippines.

The two countries already share strong tourism links, driven by cultural connections, education-related travel and a significant visiting-friends-and-relatives market.

Nearly one million Canadians of Filipino origin now call Canada home, while many Canadians travel to the Philippines for work, leisure and extended stays, says the government.

In 2025, Canada welcomed approximately 115,800 Filipino tourists, the government says. 

Officials say strengthening international tourism partnerships will also support local businesses across Canada, with visitor spending benefiting hotels, restaurants, attractions and other tourism operators.

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