Landbank and DOT Strengthen Alliance to Modernize Tourism Financial Systems
In a significant move to bolster the Philippine tourism sector, Landbank has reinforced its enduring partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT). This collaboration focuses on enhancing digital payment infrastructure and financial management, with goals to promote greater transparency, improve operational efficiency, and facilitate ease of doing business across the industry.
Formalizing Agreements for Digital Transformation
The partnership was officially cemented through the signing of two Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) on January 13, 2026. The ceremony took place at the New DOT Building in Makati City, with Landbank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz and Tourism Secretary Ma—Esperanza Christina C. Frasco leading the proceedings.
Under these agreements, the DOT will implement the Landbank Link.BizPortal, a digital payment system designed for commercial establishments and businesses nationwide. This platform enables online payments for various services, including accreditation fees, regulatory charges, penalties, and bidding documents. Described as a "plug-and-play" solution, it aims to streamline administrative processes and minimize manual interventions, thereby reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Enhancing Financial Controls and Procurement
In addition to the digital payment system, the DOT is enrolling in the Government Purchase Card (GPC) Program. The initial phase will cover 16 regional directors across the country. The GPC is intended to strengthen internal financial controls while accelerating the procurement of essential goods and services for tourism operations, ensuring timely and efficient resource management.
Landbank President Ortiz emphasized the partnership's objectives, stating, "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."
Shared Vision for Community Development
Tourism Secretary Frasco highlighted the alignment of goals between the two institutions, noting, "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."
This collaboration underscores Landbank's commitment to providing "phygital" solutions that blend physical and digital elements, supporting the government's push for innovation and digital transformation. Both Landbank and the DOT are dedicated to leveraging digital innovation to drive sustainable growth in the Philippine tourism industry.
By modernizing financial touchpoints, the institutions aim to create a more seamless and inclusive economic environment for tourism stakeholders and local communities nationwide, fostering a robust and resilient sector for years to come.
