THE PHILIPPINE government is set to allocate funding from the Higher Education Development Fund to support tourism education initiatives, including immersive programs for students and teachers.

On March 24, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and the Commission on Higher Education signed a Joint Administrative Order at the National Museum in Manila, establishing guidelines for the transparent use of the fund.

The HEDF, created under Republic Act 7722, is primarily funded through a percentage of the travel tax, professional registration fees, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office lotto revenues. TIEZA’s contribution is focused on tourism-related education programs.

The new JAO will direct funds toward improving tourism and hospitality education, including the construction of industry-standard facilities and laboratories, the purchase of equipment, and the funding of immersion programs for students and teachers. It will also support technological advancements in tourism education and foster start-up incubators.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized that this initiative is part of the Marcos administration’s broader commitment to develop, not just promote, tourism in the country. “Our goal is to ensure that travel taxes are used effectively to expand educational opportunities, helping young Filipinos pursue careers in tourism and boost the local economy,” she said.

CHED Chairperson J. Prospero De Vera III praised the collaboration, noting that this marks the first serious partnership between CHED, DOT, and TIEZA to enhance the quality of tourism education. The JAO also allows CHED to offer more grants for research and development in tourism-related courses, as well as upskilling programs for faculty members.

TIEZA COO Karen Mae Sarinas-Baydo added that over the past decade, TIEZA has contributed PHP 17.3 billion to CHED. “Our combined efforts will ensure the funds directly support the development of the next generation of tourism professionals and leaders,” she said.

This collaboration aims to solidify the foundation for sustainable tourism growth in the Philippines, investing in both the country’s education system and its future in the global tourism industry.