MANILA - The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the Philippines' newly-amended air deal with the United Kingdom, saying that this will draw more European tourists to the country.

"We support the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) in their move to improve the air agreement between the country and the UK. Identifying these key destinations is a clear indicator of the strength of our market in these regions," Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said in a statement.

The country's amended air pact with the United Kingdom allows 7 flights per week on a B747 aircraft, accommodating more than 500 passengers between Manila and 4 destinations in the United Kingdom, which include London, Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stanstead.

Durano said the European market, which is considered one of the high spenders in tourism-related activities, would be drawn to the country's several nature and adventure spots.

On top of current local attractions, he said the DOT continues to develop new tourism ventures such as birdwatching for European travelers.

For his part, DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque Jr. said the amended air deal was very timely since "we have more leisure travelers beginning August when summer season in Europe starts." As a result, Jarque said a number of domestic airlines have expressed interest to mount flights to the UK.

The Philippine Airlines, for one, is planning to launch direct flights to the UK, according to a CAB source.

Since the start of the year, the Philippines has held sealed air deals with several destinations, which include Spain, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.