MANILA, Nov. 27 -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) and global payments firm Visa announced on Thursday a strategic collaboration that pushes tourism promotions and data-sharing.

This came as Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco signed a memorandum of understanding with Visa Regional Head for Southeast Asia, Bella Lai, establishing the partnership during a ceremony in Makati City.

Under the MOU, Visa and the DOT will collaborate in key areas such as data-driven tourism; micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) digitalization and innovation; and providing financial literacy training for tourism stakeholders.

"This is a clear vote of confidence in Philippine tourism that they (Visa) have recognized the momentum of growth in the Philippin...