The 12th Regional Travel Fair (RTF) achieved resounding success, generating a substantial PHP 396 million in estimated business leads and an additional PHP 1.3 million in actual sales for tourism stakeholders and weavers nationwide during its three-day run from October 13 to 15 at Robinsons Ilocos. Notably, this edition of RTF surpassed all previous records, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming launch of direct flights by Philippine Airlines between Cebu and Laoag, scheduled for December 15.
The RTF, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, serves as a platform to bolster and promote domestic tourism. It accomplishes this mission by showcasing a diverse array of tourism products and services from local regions, neighboring provinces, and various destinations, represented by the Department of Tourism’s regional offices. This particular fair holds a special place as a milestone project for the TPB, as it represents one of the first national tourism events held in the Ilocos region.
Maria Margarita Montemayor Norgrales, the Chief Operating Officer of TPB, shared, “The Tourism Promotions Board brings this event to different parts of our beautiful country, enabling host regions to shine, exhibit their local products, and spotlight their unique destinations. This RTF serves as an opportunity for all of us to continually fall in love with the Philippines. We are excited to see this fair become the gateway for everyone to discover and appreciate all the wonders the Ilocos region has to offer.”
Approximately 70 sellers and exhibitors actively participated in the business-to-business (B2B) sessions, where they aimed to expand their professional networks and establish innovative travel-related offerings that align with the business objectives of prospective buyers. Local officials also provided valuable insights into the current tourism landscape, allowing interested stakeholders to uncover the untapped potential of destinations in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan.
In addition to these B2B sessions, the 12th RTF catered to travelers looking for their next domestic destination during the business-to-consumer (B2C) sessions, which took place on October 14-15, 2023. Exhibitors from various regions across the country showcased discounted tour packages, airline tickets, accommodations, handwoven products, and other local merchandise to the general public. This provided an excellent opportunity for individuals to explore and plan their future travel experiences within the Philippines.
The welcome dinner, attended by both buyers and sellers, was graced by the presence of key figures from TPB management and government partners, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to supporting tourism stakeholders. Among the distinguished guests at the event were TPB’s Chief Operating Officer, Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos of Ilocos Norte, Mayor Michael Marcos Keon of Laoag, Acting Head of DOT Regional Office I, Evangeline Dadat, Regional Director Marie Elaine Unchuan of DOT Region 10, Xavier Ruiz, the Provincial Tourism Officer of Ilocos Norte, and Teresita Landan, Manager of TPB’s Domestic Promotions Department.
Following the three-day event, members of the TPB embarked on a post-event tour, which allowed them to explore the region’s top attractions. Participants had the choice of immersing themselves in the rich culture and heritage of Baccara and Paoay or embarking on an exhilarating adventure with a tour of Laoag. This tour not only offered a memorable experience for TPB members but also provided sellers with valuable insights to craft tour packages for Ilocos upon returning to their respective regions.
The 12th RTF in Ilocos was made possible through the collaborative efforts of TPB, DOT Region I, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, the City Government of San Nicolas, and the City Government of Laoag. The event’s success was further facilitated by TPB’s event partners, which include Robinsons Ilocos, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines.
