Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 20) — Philippine tourism is headed to a rebound after it performed better in 2021, latest figures from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) released Wednesday show.

In its annual research for the country, the WTCC pegged the total contribution of travel & tourism to domestic output at $41 billion (about ₱2.017 trillion) last year. This is about 10.4% of the national economy, way up from its 4.8% share in 2020.

The sector accounted for 7.82 million jobs or roughly 17.8% of total jobs in 2021, rising from 6.49 million or 16.5% of overall employment the year prior.

Our expert analysis shows that the travel and tourism economy has turned a corner, and is firmly on the road to recovery. This growth was primarily built on domestic travels and very much pioneered and led by Secretary Bernadette [Romulo-Puyat], said WTTC president and chief executive officer Julia Simpson.

Shifting away from community-wide quarantines, the Philippines adopted the alert level system in phases in late 2021 as it ramped up its COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

Looking ahead, we forecast an average annual growth rate of 6.7% over the next 10 years, exceeding the expected countrys overall economy average growth rate of just 5.6%, said Simpson.

The WTCC official also said employment generated by the sector could rise annually by an average of 3% over the next decade. This will generate 2.9 million new jobs or 21.5% of total Philippine jobs, she added.

Meanwhile, Department of Tourism Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat emphasized how the country was busy preparing for its reopening to the world during the almost two years of ceased international leisure travel.

We have put in place guidelines that will ensure the safety of our guests, our tourism workforce, and our community, said the DOT chief.

The WTCC presented the figures on the first day of its 21st Global Summit held at the Marriot Hotel, Pasay City. It will be held until Apr. 22.

WTCC chairman Arnold Donald likewise noted that holding the annual gathering in the Philippines this year will help get the word out that its ready to welcome tourists in the new normal.

The Philippines began accepting fully vaccinated foreigners from all countries on April 1.