By IRMA ISIP

The Philippines should focus on inviting higher end, and longer staying tourists to meet its revenue goals and hit arrivals of 5 million by 2010 according to Samie Lim, vice chairman for tourism of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

He added that the country should ensure that flights are available to get those tourists.

"The five million tourist arrivals we are targetting is not a problem as long as we have enough seats to bring them here," he said.

Lim noted that at this time when tourists are cutting back on travel because of surging oil prices, we should be ready to capture those who are still willing and able to travel by making seats available.

"To counter the impact, we have to be specific which market to go after because there’s a demand for our attractions and with enough seats, we can bring them here," Lim suggested.

He added that budget airlines are propelling tourism.

Lim said the government should also address the absence of direct links to key destinations following the recent pullout of Lufthansa and Continental.

"If we cannot get the number then make those who come to stay longer," Lim said. Normally a tourist spends only $1,000 for a short stay of three days.

Lim also urged that we go after the higher-end market, such as those who spend over $3,000 per visit like the Chinese who love beaches and casinos.

A key attraction, he said, is the proposed Entertainment City, which can be our own version of Macau.

"The wealthy Chinese troop to Hong Kong because it is known for the genuine authentic brands," Lim said.

He laments that Korea while a good market is not getting the right kind of tourists from that country. We are getting travelers savvy enough to squeeze in resort houses, he said.

"l am confident that we could hit the 5 million tourists because Phuket attracts over 5 million and Bali, 2 million," Lim said.