The Philippines has made a triumphant return to the global tourism stage with its largest-ever delegation at the Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB) 2023 Convention in Berlin, Germany. Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the delegation consisted of 26 co-exhibitors from both the public and private sectors.
Led by DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the delegation of 40 delegates aims to showcase the country’s tourism developments and offerings to over 160,000 expected visitors at the world’s largest travel and tourism trade fair. The Philippines’ participation at ITB Berlin highlights the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, promoting the rich culture of its destinations, and its hospitality.
“The ITB Berlin holds great opportunities for the Philippines to showcase to the world its award-winning destinations such as Boracay, Cebu, Siargao, and Palawan, and also to include Banaue, Intramuros, and South Cotabato, among others. We also look forward to giving the world a view into our distinct and diverse culture, as well as the country’s best asset: the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people,” said Secretary Frasco.
The DOT and TPB aim to establish partnerships with tour operators, online travel agencies, new online distribution platforms, travel websites and communities, journalists, and influencers, among others. The Philippines booth at the ITB Berlin features artistic works by local weavers, including T’nalak weaver Myrna Pula of South Cotabato and Yakan Weaver and Entrepreneur Angelita Pichay Ilul of Zamboanga. Visitors also got a taste of Philippine coffee and chocolates through Kape de Filipina, a brand offering products meticulously grown by farmers and communities in the Philippines.
The delegation will also host a cocktail reception for international buyers, Philippine sellers, and industry partners, where they will be treated to traditional Filipino cuisine by Ayan, a Filipino street food restaurant based in Berlin. Live performances by Lapu Lapu Arnis de Abanico, Songwriter and Singer David Mercado, and Princess Virtudazo will also be featured.
With more tourism stakeholders joining the Philippine delegation, including Airtrav Philippines, Amorita Resort, El Nido Resorts, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, and many more, the country is poised to re-establish itself as a world-class tourism destination.
Negros Occidental bags Green Story Destination Awards
During the Green Destinations Awards at the ITB Berlin 2023, two cities from Negros Occidental, Philippines have received recognition for their efforts in sustainable tourism practices. Sagay City won the People’s Choice Award and ranked second under the Nature and Scenery category for their “Mangrove Forest Protection through Community-based EcoTourism Project.” Suyac Island Mangrove Ecopark, which is the first fully community-based ecotourism site in Sagay, offers an unforgettable experience that allows travelers to connect with nature and local culture.
Bago City’s entry, “Reviving the Majestic Diversity of Bago Watershed,” was awarded third among the finalists under the Environment and Climate category. The city government mobilized its resources and strengthened community involvement to protect, conserve and rehabilitate the watershed through Integrated Ecosystem Management Approach (Ridge to Reef Environmental Management). The Bago Watershed plays a significant role in the economy of Negros Occidental by supplying water to about 19,000 hectares of agricultural areas.
The Green Destinations Story Awards at the ITB Berlin highlights the most inspiring initiatives for sustainable tourism development from stories submitted to the yearly Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition. The Department of Tourism’s marketing and promotion arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), annually participates in the ITB Berlin to network with relevant decision-makers from new and existing tourism markets across Europe, America, and Asia. TPB’s long-term goal is to increase arrivals, receipts, and investments for the country.
