President of the Philippines attends Seatrade Cruise Asia Welcome Reception

The guest of honour at the Seatrade Cruise Asia Welcome Reception was President of the Republic of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. 

He was joined by other government officials during the festivities that took place on the evening of November 11 at the iconic hotel Okada Manila. 

This year’s Seatrade Cruise Asia runs from November 12-13 at the hotel Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, in partnership with the Philippines Department of Tourism, attended by 350+ delegates from 33 countries. 

Shaping the future

The president said the country aims to become a major cruise hub with 40 unique destinations, recognised as Asia's best cruise destination and the best port of call. Modernisation efforts, he said, include the launch of a cruise and waiver program. In 2023, the Philippines welcomed 125 cruise ships across 30 destinations, with an anticipated 109 calls in 2024. 

‘We are presented with an opportunity to shape the future of cruise tourism in a way that brings a lasting benefit to all…We are focused on strengthening infrastructure, forging meaningful partnerships and ensuring that both the cruise industry and local communities will flourish,’ said Marcos Jr. 

He continued, ‘We are also working to preserve the cultural and environmental assets that make us distinctive. Our goal is to build an industry that benefits everyone, the cruise lines…its crew members, the local communities and the travelers who seek to explore the rich diversity of our cultures. 

‘By streamlining operations, enhancing efficiencies and focusing on sustainable practices, we aim to ensure that the cruise industry grows in a way that is both practical and inclusive. 

‘The Philippines has long been a gateway to the rich history and culture of Southeast Asia. Now, with your collaboration and commitment, we establish ourselves as a hub for cruise tourism.’ 

Engagement with the industry

Mary Bond, group portfolio director, Seatrade Cruise gave 'a special and warm thank you’ to the Philippines Department of Tourism for their collaboration over the past year. 

It is the first time that Seatrade Cruise Asia has been held in the Philippines.

‘The Philippines engagement with the cruise industry is unrivalled,’ stated Bond, describing it as ‘one of Asia’s top 10 cruise destinations.’ 

She said, ‘Filipino crew members are highly regarded in the cruise industry and represent a significant portion of the cruise ship workforce working across various cruise lines globally from the largest to the smaller specialist ships. The Department of Tourism’s tag line is Love the Philippines…. I think for this evening and this week permit me to add a few more words and say the cruise Industry loves the Philippines.’

‘Deeply honoured’

‘We were deeply honoured by the presence of His Excellency at the Seatrade Cruise Asia Welcome Reception,’ remarked Chiara Giorgi, global brand director for Seatrade Cruise. ‘His attendance underscores the vital role the cruise industry plays in the Philippines and reaffirms our shared commitment to its continued growth and success.’

A Filipino cultural performance preceded the opening speech by Marcos Jr., and further music and performances took place throughout the dinner and networking reception. 

An expanded selection of familiarisation trips are available to cruise line representatives during the course of the event, in Manila and Subic Bay, Luzon.