The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and the Department of Tourism (DOT) are gearing up to showcase the diverse tourism offerings of the Philippines at the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2024, taking place from January 22 to 27 in Vientiane, Laos.
The ATF is a collaborative regional initiative aimed at promoting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a unified tourist destination. Under the theme “Quality and Responsible Tourism – Sustaining ASEAN Future,” the Philippines is set to exhibit its tourism attractions, emphasizing its steadfast dedication to sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles expressed, “The ASEAN Tourism Forum is an excellent platform for the Philippines to showcase our unique tourism offerings to a global audience, while also highlighting our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. We are optimistic that ATF 2024 will catalyze significant growth and collaboration in tourism within the ASEAN region.”
ATF 2024 will provide a platform for discussions among government bodies and private sector organizations on advancing sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices in the ASEAN region. Concurrently, the forum will host a three-day Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) from January 24 to 26, facilitating business-to-business meetings and promoting ASEAN destination products and services.
The Philippine delegation at TRAVEX will feature 15 local exhibitors from various sectors, including airlines, hotels, resorts, tour operators, destination management companies, and convention centers. Notable participants from the accommodation sector include Lihim Resorts, El Nido by Araw Hospitality Inc., Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark Mactan Cebu, Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa, Araneta Hotels Inc. (Novotel Manila Araneta City), AJ Coffee and Bed (Kaulayaw Coffee), and ALI Makati Hotel Property Inc – Raffles and Fairmont Hotel Makati.
Tour operators and destination management companies such as Quasar Travel and Tours, Uni Orient Travel Inc., Marsman Drysdale Travel, Inc., Annset Holidays Inc., and CTPH Tour will also be part of the delegation. Additionally, SMX Convention Center, a prominent MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) supplier in the country, and Philippine Airlines will represent the airline industry.
To further enhance the Philippines’ global presence, TPB and DOT will host a late-night function on January 26 for international buyers, Philippine private sector sellers, and international media attendees. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a fusion of traditional Philippine and Laos cuisine while being treated to captivating cultural performances.
