What is the one thing about the Philippines that you think brings in most tourists?
If there is one thing about this country that i can think of to answer this question. I think the best for it is because its the “PHILIPPINES”, why because when you say Philippines that doesnt mean Boracay, Mall of asia, Palawan or of any other identified tourist destinations. I think tourist comes here for the People, the land, the climate, the environment, the sceneries and many others to mention. Filipinos are known for being hospitable, generous, loving. So this country is a total package for tourist and that’s the reason why they still comes here despite of everything. It simply because this is the PHILIPPINES.
THE SPANISH CULTURE that Spain brought to the Philippines. We still have them in Manila the remnant of the Spanish buildings and their footsteps while in the Philippines for 300 years. I do not think a simple renovation can wipe it off. IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF BORACAY or MALL OF ASIA, these are just flavor on the icing. Naturally if you are a tourist to visit the Philippines after viewing the entirety of the beauty of the Philippines it is TIME to RELAX and dive to the resort most famous for like Boracay you said and shop around the MALL OF ASIA and went back home to your own country with souvenirs and lots of photos.