A Comparative Study of Tourism and Advantageous Industries Between the Philippines and Thailand

The Philippines and Thailand are famous tourist countries in Southeast Asia. Against the backdrop of increasing competition in the tourism industry in Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) countries, this article undertakes a comparative and analytical examination on the development of the Philippines and Thailand's dominant tourism industry segments, namely eco-tourism and medical tourism. Compared with Thailand, the Philippines, which has a lower international reputation as a tourist destination, can enhance the competitiveness of its tourism industry by strengthening publicity on streaming platforms and promoting rural tourism while improving infrastructure construction. The Philippines' increasingly sophisticated model of environmental eco-tourism has a long-term vision. Thailand is known worldwide for its low-cost, technologically advanced medical tourism, and offers world-renowned Thai massage to further maintain its advantages in the international market. Facing the huge tourism pressure of Thailand's ecological environment, this paper puts forward some suggestions on closing scenic spots during off-season, collecting environmental protection funds from tourists, and opening digital exhibition of national culture. The Philippines and Thailand are the representatives of island and mainland tourism countries in Southeast Asia respectively. This article has a practical reference for other countries in Southeast Asia that take tourism as the pillar industry.