MORE FILIPINOS have been traveling to Israel, the country’s embassy in Manila reported, while Israeli tourists coming to the Philippines have also grown last year. Data from Israel’s Ministry of Tourism showed that around 9,000 Filipinos traveled to Israel during the first half of this year, up 62% from 5,600 during the same period in 2016. On the other hand, data from the Philippines’ Department of Tourism showed that 16,725 Israelis traveled to the Philippines last year, up 42% from 2015. Hassan Madah, tourism director for India and Philippines, expressed hope that a record number of 17,000 Filipino tourists will travel to Israel this year. Mr. Madah said, “The Israel Ministry of Tourism sees a huge potential in the Philippine market as we continue to make progress on the issues of awareness and connectivity. Filipinos can enjoy visa-free travel to Israel for up to 90 days while Israelis can enjoy visa-free travel to the Philippines for up to 59 days. On the connectivity side, Cathay Pacific and Turkish Airlines offer good connections to Tel Aviv.”

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR