The Philippines has taken a significant step toward positioning itself as a global sports tourism hub by creating a new national body dedicated to this sector.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently signed Administrative Order No. 38, which formally establishes the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC). This committee is tasked with coordinating government-led initiatives to expand sports tourism both domestically and internationally.
What’s Expected From The National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee
The NST-IAC will oversee the development, promotion, and execution of sports tourism programs, including efforts to bid for and host major international sporting events. By centralizing these responsibilities, the government aims to ensure that the Philippines can compete with other nations already excelling in this field.
Industry leaders have welcomed the move, noting that it represents the government’s formal recognition of sports tourism as a driver of economic growth. Charles Lim, president of the Sports Turismo Alliance, emphasized that this development reflects decades of advocacy to integrate sports and tourism as complementary industries. According to Lim, countries that have invested in sports tourism have seen substantial benefits, from increased visitor arrivals to improved organizational standards.
Goals In Sight
The committee’s creation also aligns with ongoing efforts to highlight destinations such as Clark Freeport, which has already hosted major forums and events showcasing the Philippines’ potential as a sports tourism destination.
By consolidating resources and expertise under the NST-IAC, the Philippines hopes to attract high-profile international competitions, boost local tourism, and generate new economic opportunities. This initiative underscores the country’s ambition to become a recognized player in the global sports tourism market.
Can You Bet On Local Sporting Events In The Philippines?
Yes, current PH gambling laws allow bettors to wager on events held inside the Philippines. In fact, local Filipino players can wager with domestic and offshore sportsbooks that cater to players aged 18 or older in most cases.
Over the years, the Philippines has hosted several regional and international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games (1981, 1991), the International Series Philippines (Golf), and the World Taekwondo Championships (1995), among others.
The online sportsbooks that we review and recommend all offer betting lines on Philippine sports, including the PBA, soccer, and SEA games. While odds are less plentiful than popular international sports like the NFL, MLB, or NBA, there are lines and sometimes futures.
