DOT and Landbank Strengthen Partnership with Digital Agreements
In a significant move to modernize the Philippine tourism industry, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) have solidified their collaboration through the signing of two key agreements. This partnership aims to digitalize tourism-related payments and streamline the department’s procurement processes, fostering greater transparency and operational efficiency.
Formalizing the Digital Tourism Initiative
The agreements were formalized on January 13, 2026, at the New DOT Building in Makati City. The signing ceremony was led by Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina C. Frasco and Landbank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz. This event marks a pivotal step in enhancing the digital infrastructure of the country’s tourism sector, supporting ease of doing business and financial management improvements.
Key Components of the Agreements
Under the memoranda of agreement (MOA), the DOT will adopt the Landbank Link.BizPortal, a digital payment system designed to facilitate online transactions for commercial establishments and businesses nationwide. This system enables the payment of accreditation fees, regulatory charges, penalties, and bidding documents through a seamless digital platform. Described as a “plug-and-play” solution, it is expected to reduce manual interventions and streamline administrative processes significantly.
In addition, the DOT is enrolling in the Government Purchase Card (GPC) Program, with an initial rollout targeting 16 regional directors across the country. The GPC program is tailored to strengthen internal financial controls while expediting the procurement of essential goods and services for tourism operations, further enhancing efficiency and accountability.
Statements from Key Officials
Landbank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz emphasized the partnership’s goal of supporting the DOT’s core mission. “By streamlining payments and accelerating procurement processes, we aim to support the DOT in focusing even more on its core mission -- promoting our country, empowering tourism enterprises and workers, and welcoming the world to our shores,” said Ortiz.
Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina C. Frasco highlighted the alignment of visions between the two institutions. “We are happy that Landbank has seen and supported the vision of the Department of Tourism. In many ways, our work is very similar in that its main goal is community development -- ensuring that our local communities benefit from access to economic opportunities,” stated Frasco.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
This collaboration reflects Landbank’s commitment to providing “phygital” solutions that align with the government’s push for innovation and digital transformation. By leveraging digital tools, both the DOT and Landbank aim to drive sustainable growth in the Philippine tourism industry. Modernizing financial touchpoints is expected to create a more seamless and inclusive economic environment for tourism stakeholders and local communities nationwide.
The partnership underscores a shared dedication to harnessing technology for community development and economic advancement, positioning the Philippines as a forward-thinking destination in the global tourism landscape.
