In a move to modernize and streamline the country’s travel processes, the Department of Tourism (DOT), together with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), officially launched the Travel Tax Declaration Integration on Thursday, July 24.
Held at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City, the launch introduced a new feature within the eGovPH Super App that allows travelers to pay their travel tax digitally, eliminating the need for in-person transactions at airport counters. The feature is also integrated into the eTravel system, which is required for outbound travel from the Philippines.
The initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by DICT Undersecretaries Christina Faye Condez-de Sagon and David Almirol, and TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid, with Assistant COO Joy Bulauitan. Also present were Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Secretary Ernesto Perez and DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.
According to a statement from the DOT, the integration is part of the government’s broader push for digital transformation in public services, particularly in the tourism sector.
“This centralized, secure, and user-friendly digital platform simplifies the payment process for Filipinos and foreign nationals departing the country, eliminating the need for in-person transactions at airport counters and significantly enhancing the overall passenger experience,” the statement read.
Under current regulations, travel tax rates vary depending on the class of service and the traveler’s status. For economy-class passengers, regular rates are at P1,620, while dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) pay only P 300. First-class travelers pay between P400 (for OFW dependents) and P2,700 for the full rate.
The travel tax plays a crucial role in supporting government programs. As mandated by Republic Act 9593, 50% of the collected tax proceeds go to TIEZA, 40% to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and 10% to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
Apart from travel tax payments, the eGovPH Super App offers a growing range of digital government services, including access to the eTravel form, further promoting convenience for the traveling public.
The launch marks a significant step toward a more seamless, tech-driven travel experience in the Philippines.
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