The Philippines is the no. 1 Asia Pacific destination in terms of sold airline tickets by all airlines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) office here reported. RP recorded a 60% growth rate in terms of tickets issued by all airlines in almost all French travel agencies from January to February 2009, compared with figures in 2008.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said, "Our aggressive marketing campaign in several major travel trade fairs in Europe has allowed us to strengthen our established links with the French market.” He added, "The DOT has continued to enhance our campaign for high-spending French travelers, promoting the country’s nature, adventure and culture."

According to the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP), figures representing the number of tickets issued by all airlines in 4,000 travel agencies in France, the Philippines is the strongest in terms of progression for Asian destinations for the January-February 2009 period.

Durano attributed the growth in ticket bookings to the country’s myriad of adventures and travel options. "The country offers diving and other exciting activities from all kinds water sports to exhilarating expeditions such as hiking, trekking, spelunking, to name a few.  We also have bird-watching, which is fast gaining acclaim from eco-travelers.”

Tourism Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr. said, “The French market has been familiar with our destinations because of key reasons, among which is the country’s active participation in travel trade fairs and our partnership with the TV program Koh Lanta, which featured Caramoan in Camarines Sur, and Palawan."

The Tourism First Quarter Report showed that Camarines Sur and Palawan were the leading major destinations in terms of growth rate, at 43.23% and 93.29%, respectively.