Luanda: The head of the Philippine Consular Services, Megan Brechet, expressed on Friday in Luanda the interest of Filipino businesspeople in developing projects in the tourism sector in Angola, particularly in the southern province of Namibe. The statement was made during the First Angola-Philippines Business Forum, themed ‘Sustainable Tourism: Paths to Economic and Cultural Development.’
According to Angola Press News Agency, a delegation of Filipino businesspeople is expected to visit Angola soon to explore opportunities in the tourism industry, starting with the province of Namibe. Megan Brechet highlighted that the cooperation will focus on evaluating the potential of the region and defining specific projects for investment.
Brechet emphasized that Namibe will serve as a starting point, noting that Angola possesses significant untapped natural tourism potential. The diplomat pointed out that the Philippines has rich experience in tourism development, which they aim to leverage to create sustainable projects. Additionally, she mentioned that the tourism sector in the Philippines contributes 8% to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) and directly employs over 13 million people.
Am©rico Magarinhos, president of the Angola-Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Investment (CCIAF), stated that the forum’s goal was to showcase Angola’s tourism potential, draw on the experiences of the Philippines, and attract investment for future projects. He revealed that contacts have already been made with Filipino businesspeople interested in investing in sustainable tourism in Namibe.
Magarinhos highlighted the tourism and business opportunities in Namibe province, focusing on Iona National Park, renowned for its biodiversity and ancient rock formations. He also mentioned Baa dos Tigres, a pristine destination ideal for ecotourism and adventure tourism, featuring giant dunes and the legendary Welwitschia Mirabilis plant. Additionally, he noted the cultural richness of the Mucubais, a pastoral community with deep-rooted traditions.
He argued that Namibe is an ideal destination for investments in luxury hotels, ecotourism, adventure tourism, and cultural itineraries. The First Angola-Philippines Business Forum, organized by the Angola-Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Investment, aims to boost tourism in Angola, contributing to economic growth, international integration, and promoting sustainable tourism for local communities and job creation.
Established in 2024, the CCIAF is instrumental in bridging the two markets, facilitating business, investment, and knowledge exchange between the peoples and business entities of Angola and the Philippines.