DOT Launches Philippine Golf Experience to Drive Sports Tourism Growth

Lifestyle | Tourism Posted on 2025-08-31 19:16:36

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – The Department of Tourism (DOT) has officially rolled out its first-ever Philippine Golf Experience (GolfEx) program, aiming to position the country as a top golfing destination in Asia while boosting sports tourism.

The launch took place Friday at the Mimosa Plus Golf Course, highlighted by golf lessons and a friendly tournament that brought together diplomats, enthusiasts, and professional players.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said GolfEx is part of the broader Philippine Experience Program, which seeks to showcase the nation’s diverse attractions through specialized tourism activities.

“Tourism is not just about arrivals but about livelihoods, enterprises, and pride of place. Golf captures this beautifully—when done sustainably, it is a high-value, low-impact form of tourism that encourages visitors to stay longer, spend more, and return often,” Frasco said.

Professional Golfers Association of the Philippines executive secretary Elisa Bulawit welcomed the initiative, noting that the country’s golf courses can rival those in Vietnam and other Asian destinations.

“We have many world-class golf courses across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that remain undiscovered by enthusiasts. Coupled with Filipino hospitality and quality service, the Philippines has all the ingredients to attract golfers worldwide,” Bulawit said.

The DOT is targeting markets such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States, with plans to expand promotions in Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Southeast Asia.

“Here, you can play golf one day, then go to the beach or diving the next,” Frasco added, emphasizing the country’s unique mix of sports and leisure opportunities.

The ceremonial tee-off was led by Frasco, joined by Senator Lito Lapid, Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Vietnamese Ambassador Thai Binh Lai, Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, Clark Development Corporation president Agnes Devanadera, and other tourism and business leaders.

Currently, the Philippines boasts over 100 golf courses nationwide, with at least seven new golf estates under development, including projects by Megaworld, Ayala Land, and Rockwell Land in Batangas and other prime locations, according to Leechiu Property Consultants.

NPO News Team | PNA-PR

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