Vietnam's Da Nang City Intensifies Tourism Push for Filipino Visitors After ASEAN Forum
Vietnam is not holding back in promoting its tourism sector, particularly focusing on Da Nang City, in the wake of the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026. The forum, which served as a significant platform for regional tourism discussions, was hosted in Cebu, Philippines, and took place on January 27, 2026, at a hotel in Mandaue City. This event has sparked renewed efforts to attract international travelers, with Da Nang positioning itself as a prime destination for Filipinos.
Da Nang: A Gateway to UNESCO Heritage Sites
Located in the central part of Vietnam, Da Nang acts as a strategic gateway to several world-renowned cultural and natural heritage sites recognized by UNESCO. These include the breathtaking Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, the historic Hue Imperial City, the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, and the spiritual My Son Sanctuary. The city takes pride in its tourism offerings, which seamlessly blend natural landscapes with iconic attractions such as the Dragon Bridge, Golden Bridge, Coconut Forest, Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagodas, and Catholic churches.
Commitment from Vietnamese Embassy and Enhanced Accessibility
Lai Thai Binh, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Philippines, emphasized the embassy's dedication to supporting all partners, including both Filipinos and Vietnamese. "The Vietnamese embassy in the Philippines is fully committed to support and accompanying all partners, Filipinos and Vietnamese alike," stated Ambassador Binh. He also highlighted the ease of travel for Filipinos to Da Nang, noting that there are numerous direct flights available, with up to 10 weekly connections, making the destination more accessible than ever.
Green Travel Initiatives and Affordable Luxury
In line with global trends towards sustainability, Giang Hoang – Gina, Director of Sales at Vinpearl, introduced the concept of "green travel" during the forum. This initiative focuses on reducing waste and providing sustainable services to guests, aiming to minimize the environmental impact of tourism. Additionally, Hoang addressed affordability concerns by assuring that Filipino tourists have a wide range of options based on their budget. Even hotels and resorts with lower star ratings promise 5-star standard services at competitive prices, ensuring a luxurious experience without the high cost.
Tourism Statistics and Future Prospects
According to the latest data from 2025, Da Nang welcomed approximately 165,000 Filipino visitors, accounting for 2.2 percent of the 17.8 million international tourists who explored the city, often referred to as the "Fantastic City." This figure underscores the growing interest among Filipinos in Vietnam as a travel destination. With the momentum from the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Da Nang is poised to further increase its appeal through strategic promotions and enhanced visitor experiences.
The combined efforts of the Vietnamese government, embassy, and tourism stakeholders signal a robust push to make Da Nang a top choice for Filipino travelers, leveraging its cultural richness, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainable and affordable tourism.
