As travel continues to rebound, the Philippines remains a popular destination in Southeast Asia, welcoming over 2.1 million international visitors from January to April 2025. This article dives deep into the top countries visiting the Philippines in 2025, backed by the latest tourism statistics and insights into travel trends that are shaping the industry.
Total Tourist Arrivals in the Philippines: January to April 2025
According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippines recorded 2,104,572 total arrivals from January to April 2025, which includes:
- 1,933,757 foreign tourists (91.88%)
- 170,815 overseas Filipinos (8.12%)
While this reflects a slight year-on-year decrease of 0.82%, several key markets showed strong growth, signaling robust recovery and changing visitor demographics.
Top 10 Countries Visiting the Philippines in Early 2025
1. South Korea – 468,337 Arrivals
Keyword: South Korean tourists in the Philippines 2025
South Korea remains the top source of foreign tourists to the Philippines, accounting for 22.25% of total arrivals. However, this is a decline of 18.03% from the previous year, possibly due to shifting travel trends and currency factors. Despite the drop, destinations like Boracay and Cebu remain favorites among South Korean travelers.
2. United States of America – 360,799 Arrivals
Keyword: US tourists visiting the Philippines 2025
The USA remains a top travel market for the Philippines, showing a healthy growth of 8.99% year-over-year. With strong family ties, business travel, and increasing leisure trips, American visitors made up 17.14% of all international arrivals.
3. Japan – 156,532 Arrivals
Keyword: Japanese visitors to the Philippines 2025
Tourists from Japan recorded an 18.14% increase, making it one of the fastest-growing source markets. Japanese travelers are drawn to the Philippines for diving, cultural tours, and tropical getaways, especially in Palawan and Bohol.
4. Australia – 111,113 Arrivals
Keyword: Australian tourists in the Philippines 2025
Australia contributed 5.28% of total arrivals, with a strong 19.44% growth over the previous year. Aussies continue to visit the Philippines for its beaches, nature, and close proximity compared to other Asian destinations.
5. Canada – 99,152 Arrivals
Keyword: Canadian tourists in the Philippines
Canadian arrivals increased by 16.42%, reflecting steady interest from North America. Many Canadians travel to the Philippines for both leisure and to reconnect with Filipino relatives and communities.
6. China – 92,659 Arrivals
Keyword: Chinese tourist arrivals Philippines 2025
Chinese tourist arrivals saw a dramatic decline of 34.36% from 2024, possibly due to travel restrictions and shifting outbound preferences. China, once a leading source market, now ranks sixth in 2025.
7. Taiwan – 69,593 Arrivals
Keyword: Taiwan tourists Philippines
With over 69,000 arrivals, Taiwan remains a key East Asian market despite a 10.94% drop. Direct flights and regional proximity continue to support this segment.
8. United Kingdom – 65,923 Arrivals
Keyword: UK tourists in the Philippines
The UK saw a 7.79% increase in arrivals. British tourists often favor destinations like El Nido and Siargao, and this market remains resilient, representing 3.13% of the total.
9. Singapore – 50,009 Arrivals
Keyword: Singaporean tourists to the Philippines
Singaporean arrivals were relatively stable, with a slight 1.07% dip. With regular short-haul flights and business ties, Singapore continues to be a consistent market.
10. Germany – 37,088 Arrivals
Keyword: German tourists Philippines
Germany posted a modest 2.55% growth, remaining a strong European market. German travelers are attracted to eco-tourism, scuba diving, and cultural exploration.
Fastest Growing Source Markets for Philippine Tourism
Several countries showed exceptional growth in tourist arrivals from 2024 to 2025, making them emerging or re-emerging key markets:
- Italy: +28.93%
- Russia: +21.19%
- France: +18.96%
- Japan: +18.14%
- Australia: +19.44%
- Spain: +19.88%
These growth rates suggest successful tourism promotions, better connectivity, or renewed interest in Philippine travel experiences.
Declining Markets to Monitor
While some countries showed growth, others experienced a significant decline:
- China: -34.36%
- Indonesia: -27.01%
- Taiwan: -10.94%
- Hong Kong – SAR: -8.54%
- Malaysia: -6.26%
The downturn in these markets highlights the importance of diversifying tourism campaigns and maintaining travel competitiveness in the ASEAN and East Asia regions.
The Role of Overseas Filipinos in Tourism
Notably, arrivals from overseas Filipinos jumped by 37.53%, showing increased travel confidence and renewed family visits. This segment is crucial for domestic tourism and local economies.
Key Takeaways: Philippines Travel Trends 2025
- The USA, Japan, Australia, and Canada are showing strong upward trends in arrivals.
- South Korea and China remain large but are declining in share.
- European markets are rebounding well, particularly France, Italy, and Spain.
- The Philippines must continue to invest in travel infrastructure, digital promotion, and sustainable tourism experiences to capture these growing markets.
The 2025 Philippine tourism landscape is defined by both resilience and transformation. While traditional top markets like South Korea remain dominant, new growth is being fueled by North American and European travelers. As the country adapts to global travel changes, targeted strategies and market diversification will be essential to sustaining growth.
