Vietnam’s low-cost carrier VietJet Air is set to introduce direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Manila, following an agreement between the two countries to enhance bilateral tourism. The announcement was made during Vietnamese President To Lam’s state visit to the Philippines, where both nations elevated their relations to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.
New Route to Boost Travel and Trade
Speaking at the Vietnam-Philippines Business Forum in Manila, President To Lam expressed confidence that the new route will strengthen travel exchanges, trade, and investments between the two countries. While no specific flight details have been released yet, the service is expected to commence soon.
Existing Air Connectivity
VietJet Air previously launched the Ho Chi Minh-Manila route in 2025, operating five round-trip flights per week. Meanwhile, Vietnam Airlines currently runs three direct routes between Vietnam and the Philippines, including daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh to Manila, as well as flights from Hanoi to Cebu from Sunday to Thursday. According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), these routes offer a combined weekly seat capacity of 2,608, reflecting strengthened tourism and connectivity between the two ASEAN neighbors.
Tourism Statistics and Cooperation
Based on DOT data, Vietnam ranked 23rd as a tourist source market for the Philippines last year, contributing 33,599 visitors or approximately 0.57 percent of total arrivals. To further boost exchanges, the two governments signed a bilateral Tourism Cooperation Program covering 2026 to 2029. The program aims to increase tourism flows, facilitate more flight frequencies, and develop joint promotional activities under a “one package tour” concept.
Additionally, Vietnam and the Philippines will explore collaboration in travel facilitation, research and development, tourism management, human resource capacity building, and sustainable and regenerative tourism. These initiatives are expected to deepen ties and promote mutual growth in the tourism sector.
