On January 15, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Klook Philippines officially signed a partnership aimed at making travel in the Philippines more accessible and immersive. This collaboration highlights curated tour packages under the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), a flagship initiative developed under the Marcos administration to showcase the country’s rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
Expanding the Philippine Experience
As part of this partnership, Klook introduces a groundbreaking lineup of PEP tours across the country, accelerating the digitalization of Philippine tourism. These tours feature must-visit destinations and unique experiences, including:
- Calabarzon: A Culture, Heritage & Arts Tour, featuring Pagsanjan Falls, the Pinto Art Museum, and the historic Villa Escudero.
- Bicol: A Culture, Heritage & Adventure Tour with an ATV ride to Mayon Volcano and a taste of Bicolano cuisine.
- Ilocos Region: A Culture, Heritage & Arts Tour exploring the UNESCO World Heritage City, Spanish colonial landmarks, and local delicacies like empanadas and tupig.
- Western Visayas: A Culture, Heritage & Arts Tour in Silay City, showcasing its Spanish colonial architecture, heritage houses, and fresh seafood.
- Palawan: A Culture, Heritage & Arts Tour featuring the Palawan Special Battalion WW-II Memorial Museum, Binuatan Weaving workshops, and the Butterfly Garden.
Integrating Modern Solutions
The partnership also includes plans to integrate DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) into the Klook platform and explore collaborations with key airports, such as Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Clark International Airport.
Formalizing the Partnership
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Klook President and Co-Founder Eric Gnock Fah led the ceremonial signing of the Strategic Alliance and Memorandum of Agreement, accompanied by Tourism Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala-Batin and Klook General Manager for the Philippines and Thailand, Michelle Ho.
Secretary Frasco emphasized the importance of the partnership in promoting a multidimensional view of the Philippines:
“The Philippine Experience Program, now on Klook, translates the President’s vision of reintroducing the Philippines to the world through culture, heritage, gastronomy, and immersive community experiences. This partnership ensures equal tourism opportunities across our destinations.”
Gnock Fah expressed enthusiasm for showcasing the Philippines’ unique offerings:
“The Philippines’ natural wonders and vibrant culture are incredible. Through this partnership, we’re excited to bring these experiences to travelers worldwide.”
Strengthening a Long-Standing Collaboration
Klook has been a consistent partner of the DOT, contributing to various initiatives, including:
- Training seminars on social media marketing and product development during the pandemic.
- Launching the Intramuros Pass to provide exclusive access to attractions in the Walled City.
- Collaborating on the Love the Philippines campaign with the Tourism Promotions Board.
Currently, Klook offers over half a million experiences across 2,700 destinations in the Philippines, with ongoing efforts to engage more travel operators through regional roadshows, enhancing their global reach.
This partnership marks a significant step in elevating Philippine tourism, offering both locals and international travelers a more connected, immersive, and enriching experience of the country.
