For a stronger Philippine tourism

Hundreds of international travel and tourism professionals recently gathered at the Marriott Hotel Manila to take part in the country’s most important annual travel trade event — the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2016.

Presented by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the Department of Tourism (DOT), PHITEX serves as a venue for business-to-business sessions between international buyers and local sellers. The event aims to broaden the chance of interaction, as well as encourage in-depth discussions on tourism and trade opportunities.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo, together with Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr., Assistant Secretary Ricky Alegre, TPB COO OIC Joselito Gregorio, deputy COO for international promotions Maricon Basco-Ebron and PHITEX deputy secretary general Susana del Mundo, welcomed the international delegation to the event.

Teo said, “PHITEX will only grow stronger and more competitive through the coming years with the continual commitment and dedication of everyone — our partners, buyers, sellers and exchange visitors. Your immeasurable support only fuels us to push and go further. I believe that through our cumulative effort, we create and become the greater nations.”

On top of the sessions, buyers, who got to experience the country’s world-famous hospitality, enjoyed Filipino delicacies such as puto bumbong and bibingka. The talent of the Pinoys was also highlighted through the excellent performances of the 36-year-old festival dance company Buganda Dancers and Drumbeaters; multi-awarded ballet dancers Candice and Carissa Adea, World Champion violinist Juleous and Asia’s Got Talent Season 1 finalist, Junior New System.

Buyers also joined fun and exciting tours that included inspection of hotels, entertainment and convention venues and facilities around the country’s capital and top tourist attractions and destinations such as Intramuros, Tagaytay and Batangas, Vigan, Laoag, Palawan, Bicol, Bohol, Cebu and Davao.

Now on its 15th year, PHITEX has gained popularity and recognition in the global tourism market. By making the event bigger and better, TPB is giving foreign travelers more reasons to visit the Philippines again.

(Follow me on Instagram @pepperteehankee.)