DUMAGUETE CITY — The Philippines closed Tourism Month with a major global milestone, emerging as the seventh-fastest improving economy in the World Economic Forum's 2026 Travel and Tourism Development Index. The country climbed eight places to rank 57th out of 110 economies, posting an overall score of 4.08.
A National Achievement with Local Champions
The improved ranking followed sustained investments in tourism infrastructure and destinations, with the Department of Tourism acknowledging the need to ensure growth translates into jobs and livelihoods for local communities. Dumaguete City, the "City of Gentle People," stands among the destinations embodying the sustainable, community-driven tourism the index rewards.
The Philippines posted its biggest gain in sustainability, rising to 29th from 64th globally on stronger scores in nature protection and wastewater treatment. The country also ranked second worldwide in the demand sustainability pillar, with geographically dispersed tourism rising to 5.2 from 3.2 out of 7, indicating broader distribution of tourism activity beyond major hubs.
Where Sustainability Meets Community
Negros Oriental's tourism industry generated ₱13.3 billion in estimated visitor receipts in 2025, with arrivals growing 15.22 percent to 954,344. Domestic travelers accounted for 864,868, while foreign arrivals surged 67.21 percent to 89,476, signaling renewed global confidence. The province targets one million to 1.2 million tourists in 2026.
Just a short boat ride from the city lies Apo Island, one of the world's most successful community-managed marine protected areas. Fifteen minutes south, Dauin is celebrated among underwater photographers for its rare macro species. The reef-to-ridge experience, from protected waters to the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes, reflects the ecological diversity the index recognizes.
Infrastructure Fueling Regional Growth
The national ranking highlighted dramatic improvements in transport connectivity, with the Philippines moving from 80th to 49th globally. Dumaguete contributes through the New Dumaguete International Airport in Bacong, which received the largest airport allocation in the 2026 national budget at ₱2.5 billion under a ₱17.06-billion project funded largely by South Korea's Export-Import Bank.
The new sea link connecting Oslob, Siquijor, and Dumaguete launched in May 2026, creating what officials envision as a tourism and economic triangle in Central Visayas. These connections strengthen the region's appeal to international visitors and investors alike.
A Haven for Retirees and Travelers
Beyond tourism, Dumaguete ranked among Asia's Top 4 Budget-Friendly Destinations for Affordable Retirement Living in February 2026. The Philippine Retirement Authority deemed it retiree-friendly with a score of 97.48, hosting 396 foreign retirees. A Korean-backed initiative will bring over 1,000 more retirees to the city and nearby towns.
Dumaguete was also named the Safest City in the Philippines for 2025 and 2026, earning a score of 82.28. At the 33rd World Travel Awards, the Philippines was crowned Asia's Leading Beach Destination, with Dumaguete serving as its radiant jewel.
