TPB Launches Enhanced Membership Program

Tweet

Looking to expand and bring more opportunities to its membership program, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) launched its enhanced TPB Membership Program at Luxent Hotel last March 12, 2024.

Under Republic Act No. 9593, otherwise known as the Tourism Act of 2009, the Tourism Promotions Board shall be open for membership to entities, groups and individuals with economic, social or cultural interest in travel trade, congresses and conventions. Year 2023 ended with TPB having a total of 859 members from all over the country.

TPB COO Marga Nograles showed her solidarity with the TPB members during the event

“In my short time with TPB, I've seen that you are truly the core of our tourism industry. There’s so much potential for us to transform the Philippines into a global tourism leader, and this vision is only achievable through our collective effort,” said TPB COO Nograles addressing the stakeholders at the event.

To strengthen the partnership between the agency and its members, TPB’s work plan for the year is to enhance its membership program. This will enable the members to prosper in the digital age, as they can learn how to leverage market intelligence through a series of modules.

Another benefit of the enhanced program is the inclusion of members in the Travel Philippines app. Members will be featured in the app’s directory and the destinations tab, making it easier for aspiring travelers to reach them for their dream vacation in the country. The app also allows members to advertise their promos to tap into a wider audience now that the number of users of the Travel Philippines app is steadily increasing.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her support for the program

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco gave a keynote at the event to show her support for TPB’s Enhanced Membership Program. She emphasized that the enhanced program and the inclusion of TPB members in the Travel Philippines app is a significant milestone for the tourism industry, as it increases the connection between tourists and local tourism enterprises.

“The app gives new markets and existing markets access to information about TPB members. In other words, wherever you may be in the world, you can simply open your phone and access information that directly links tourists to your companies,” stated DOT Secretary Frasco.

Also in attendance were Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, Assistant Secretary Rica Bueno, and Assistant Secretary Verna Buensuceso. Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Karlo Nograles, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Cristina Roque, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Roberto Lim, and Director Eduardo Pelaez also graced the event to show their support. Meanwhile, around 350 representatives from various tourism enterprises attended the launch.

The members’ inclusion in the Travel Philippines app and the special access to market intelligence are just two of the many benefits that enterprises can enjoy from TPB’s Enhanced Membership Program. TPB also offers networking and capacity-building, access to information and promotional materials, assistance for brand enhancement, and business opportunities for its program members.

TPB Celebrates Back-to-Back Successes at IT&CMA 2023 in Bangkok

Tweet

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines announces its triumphant participation in the Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) 2023, held from September 24 to 29 in Bangkok, Thailand. This event is renowned as one of the most influential MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) trade shows in the Asia-Pacific region, providing a vibrant platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and explore promising opportunities.

With robust participation, securing valuable partnerships, and generating substantial interest in the Philippines as a prime destination for MICE events, the Philippine delegation's success was underscored by partial reported sales leads secured with high-potential MICE events valued at US$2,585,097.24 (PhP144,765,445.44). These accomplishments stand as a testament to the Philippines' growing appeal in the global MICE market.

"We are thrilled with the outcome of our participation in IT&CMA 2023. The overwhelming interest shown by international stakeholders reaffirms the Philippines' position as a top choice for MICE events. We are committed to nurturing these partnerships and further enhancing our offerings to meet the evolving needs of the MICE industry," said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

TPB was also awarded the “Best National Tourism Organization” by the readers of TTG Asia Media—a leading publisher and organizer of events in travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region. The awarding ceremony was held on the last day of IT&CMA 2023, during the TTG Travel Awards Gala Dinner on September 28.

Having been an active participant in IT&CMA since 2013, the TPB's presence at this prestigious event has consistently reinforced the Philippines' stature as a premier MICE destination. This year's showcase was marked by the Philippines' expanded booth, covering an impressive 150 sqm. and accommodating 24 exhibitors comprised of tour operators, hotel/resort properties, an events management company, and an airline company, passionately promoting the country's diverse offerings and seamless event planning services.

Joining the TPB at this year's IT&CMA were the following tourism partners: Baron Travel Corporation, Divaishnavi International Inc., GI Philippines Corp., Laging Balani Travel Services, Lifestyle Luxury Travel Corporation, Mooncake Educational Travel and Tours, Uni-Orient Travel, Inc., AJ Coffee and Bed / Kaulayaw Corporation, Crimson Resort and Spa, Boracay, Dusit Thani Manila, Fili Hotel Cebu, Grand Hyatt Manila, Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark Mactan, Cebu, Marriott Hotel Manila, Novotel Manila Araneta City, Okada Manila, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu, Seda Hotels, White Breeze Palawan Hotel, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, The Lind Boracay, Philippine Airlines, and Total Exhibit and Expo Solutions, Inc.

PHITEX Shines Spotlight on IoT in 2023 Cebu Edition

Tweet

The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2023, the country's premier government-organized travel trade event organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, makes a triumphant return to Cebu City after 16 years. The event aims to present the Philippines' finest tourism attractions, establishments, services, and products to a global audience.

The theme for this year's edition is centered on sustainability in the age of the Internet of Things (IoT), highlighting the country's digitalization and sustainability efforts to meet global demands. Moreover, PHITEX functions as an innovative knowledge-sharing platform. Through its PEPTalk module, PHITEX provides a valuable educational experience to local stakeholders and academia members in the field of tourism, offering insights into the latest advancements in IoT, data privacy, and circular economies.

“We are standing at the crossroads of a digital revolution, where the Internet of Things or IoT, promises to reshape our world. As we navigate this transformative wave, the tourism industry must stand ready. Our task is not only to embrace this digital evolution but also to champion the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernization. This delicate balance is an expertise we, as custodians of our vibrant cultural heritage, must skillfully achieve,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

PHITEX will commence on September 19 with the PHITEX Educational Program (PEP) Talk. This learning opportunity will feature discussions anchored on this year's theme, "Tourism Sustainability in the Era of IoT." Distinguished speakers, including Maria Raisa Ysaac-Orbon, Chief Marketing Officer of Packetworx Inc.; Maricel Gatchalian-Badilla, PhD., Associate Professor of UP Asian Institute of Tourism; Atty. Francis Euston R. Acero, Vice President and Data Privacy Officer of Meralco; Barry Lim, Senior Director, Public Sector & Government Practice, Frost and Sullivan-Singapore; Geoff Andres, Property President of the City of Dreams Manila; and Dawn Mendoza, Program Manager of the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride, are set to share their insights on tourism trends and sustainability practices in the digital age.

This year's edition will bring together 100 buyers from 18 countries and 168 Philippine seller delegates representing 122 companies for business-to-business interactions. TPB collaborated with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and private sector representatives to carefully screen the buyers, ensuring their quality and legitimacy.

The opening ceremonies of this two-day Travel Exchange will take place on September 20 at the Fili-Nustar Hotel. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco will grace the event alongside Nograles and other DOT officials.

PHITEX is a significant annual marketing event that not only facilitates meetings between qualified international buyers and Philippine sellers through tabletop business appointments. It also offers participants a chance to experience the beauty of Philippine tourism destinations through pre and post familiarization tours in Manila-Rizal, Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon-Davao, Coron, Palawan, Boracay-Romblon, Cebu-Dumaguete, Pampanga-La Union, and Ilocos Norte and Sur.

For more information about PHITEX, visit https://www.phitex.ph/

Tourism Promotions Board hosted WORLDCHEFS Asian Presidents Forum 2023 a first for PH

Tweet

The Philippines hosted the recently concluded WORLDCHEFS Asian Presidents Forum (WAPF) 2023, welcoming delegates and presidents from sixteen (16) member societies, two (2) associate member groups, as well as organizational heads of the World Association of Chef Societies (WORLDCHEFS). This was the first time the event was held in the country, with the last occurring in Bangkok in 2019.

MEETING OF THE MINDS Willment Leong, WORLDCHEFS continental director for Asia, speaks in a closed-door meeting on Aug. 1 with WORLDCHEFS presidents

Co-organized by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) and LTB Philippines Chefs Association, the WAPF kicked off with an opening ceremony on July 31 at Conrad Manila. Forum events ran until August 5 and aimed to bring together culinary experts from all over Asia to share culinary heritage, industry best practices, and sustainability goals through knowledge-sharing sessions, competitions, and outreach programs scheduled throughout the weeklong conference.

Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared that the event was a good showcase of the country, saying that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. “envisions the Philippines to have a more primary role in Asia in terms of being able to reintroduce itself to the world, not only on the aspect of fun and adventure, but most importantly, to allow you to get to know the heart and soul of the Filipinos that lies in our history, our heritage, our identity, and our living cultural traditions, including and especially, our culinary traditions.”

“We are given a unique opportunity to listen and learn from experts about developments in the culinary field. The world is more connected, now more than ever, and this has vastly influenced and changed the way we look at food, especially in recent years. People from all over the world are constantly seeking new gastronomic experiences,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

A FIRST Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (center) poses with delegates and member association presidents of the World Association of Chefs Societies (WORLDCHEFS) at the organization's first Asian Presidents Forum to be held in the Philippines.

Attending member societies include LTB Philippines, Association of Culinary Professionals Indonesia, Cambodia Chefs’ Association, Chefs Association of Pakistan, Chefs Guild of Lanka, Chefs Guild of Maldives, China Cuisine Association, Hong Kong Chefs Association, Indian Federation of Culinary Associations, Korea Chefs Association, Mongolian Chefs Association, Professional Culinaire Association of Malaysia, Singapore Chefs’ Association, Taiwan Chefs Association, Thailand Chefs Association, and The Saigon Professional Chefs’ Guild.

The associate member groups of Penang Chef Association and Karachi Chefs Association were also present.

“So many presidents and so many representatives from WORLDCHEFS member countries, [who] are here in the room, shows that Asia is one of the powerful forces in WORLDCHEFS,” said Chef Thomas Gugler, WORLDCHEFS president.

Also in attendance to give talks on Filipino food heritage and food sustainability in hospitality establishments were Felice Prudente Sta. Maria and Chef Meik Brammer, respectively. LTB Philippines’ Chef Fernando Aracama hosted a panel discussion with

Chefs Stephan Duhesme, Carlos Villaflor, and Jordy Navarra about the Philippine culinary scene.

Chef KK Yau, WORLDCHEFS assistant vice president, gave an update on WORLDCHEFS Without Borders’ Chef Social Responsibility efforts in Syria. While Chef Alan Orreal, WORLDCHEFS Young Chefs chairman, spoke about the necessity of bridging the gap between young chefs and the old guard of the culinary world.

In anticipation of the week’s events, Chef Rick Stephen, WORLDCHEFS Culinary Competition Committee chairman, gave a rundown of culinary safety and competition standards.

Chef Carlo Miguel, LTB Philippines president, said, “We’ve always wanted to be able to showcase Philippine hospitality to our Asian neighbors ... We can show them how advanced we are in our culinary skill through the Philippine Culinary Cup as well.”

Organized by PEPTarsus Corp., the World Food Expo (WOFEX), a long-running Philippine food trade show, was held from August 2 to 5 at SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center. WOFEX hosts the only WORLDCHEFS-accredited culinary competition in the country, the Philippine Culinary Cup, which ran on August 5 along with the semifinals of the WORLDCHEFS’ Global Chef Challenge.

According to Chef Willment Leong, WORLDCHEFS continental director for Asia, the Global Chef Challenge itself had amassed a record number of participants for the association, with 51 chefs from 11 different member countries engaging in this Philippine leg.

Leong also facilitated the launch of the WORLDCHEFS e-book “Food of Asia, Soul of Asia.” Available on the WORLDCHEFS website, the e-book features authentic recipes across the continent crafted by member association chefs.

Joel Pascual, PEPTarsus president, spoke about the benefits of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events such as the WAPF in boosting local trade and travel. “We are indicating that the Philippines is open for business,” he said.

Chef Leong said, “Hospitality from the Philippines is unbelievable … This [has been a] tip- top, world-standard forum .. We look forward to [coming] back to this beautiful home we call the Philippines.”

#VisitCentralVisayas: TPB and DOT bring 11th Regional Travel Fair to Cebu

Tweet

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism, is set to stage one of its flagship programs, the 11th Regional Travel Fair (RTF), from 21 to 23 July 2023 at SM Seaside City, Cebu.

The RTF is a government-initiated trade fair that strategically conducts its events across different regions of the country. This initiative provides an excellent platform for host regions to showcase their unique tourism offerings in partnership with the local government units and local industry players.

In its 11th installment, the RTF will shine the spotlight on Central Visayas, a region renowned for its white sandy beaches, breathtaking sceneries, and unspoiled natural wonders. A travelers’ mecca, this region offers a multitude of activities for both islands and highlands explorations – from idyllic white sand beaches to captivating underwater scenery and exhilarating adventures to vibrant historical sites. It is sure to attract tourists to #VisitCentralVisayas and explore its breathtaking wonders.

“After a series of hybrid regional travel fairs, we are thrilled to stage a full in-person event and gather key industry stakeholders to the 11th RTF in Cebu. I invite everyone to join us as we embark on a meaningful journey to #VisitCentralVisayas and discover its treasures,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

The 11th RTF will commence with Business-to-Business sessions between local sellers and buyers to establish valuable relationships, promote collaboration on marketing campaigns and product development while also sharing emerging trends and best practices in the industry.

A two-day Business-to-Consumer session is also slated on July 22-23 wherein over 70 exhibitors will showcase and offer discounted domestic tour packages, airline tickets, accommodations, and other tourism-related products and services.

The fair will also feature the handloom weaving industry of Hablon Weavers of Argao and Banig Weavers of Badian, Cebu. These centuries-old traditions hold immense cultural and traditional significance, representing the vibrant history and heritage of the Cebuano people.

Be part of the 11th RTF and get a chance to score great travel deals for your next adventure! Register now at https://rtf.tpb.gov.ph/

MICECON returns to Davao this 2023

Tweet

After 10 years, the Philippine M.I.C.E.Conference (MICECON) returns to Davao City where it will showcase the region’s rich culture, stunning natural environments, vast culinary offerings and vibrant hospitality to a global audience. The convention will be held at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier on 1-3 March 2023 with over 600 participants from the tourism and business events sector.

The MICECON 2023 is the biggest gathering of the Meetings, Incentive Travel and Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) professionals in the country bringing together the special mix of the local and foreign delegates in the MICE industry to learn about the different global trends on business meetings, witness the beautiful sceneries of the premier city of the south, and invite them for networking opportunities with both the local and international MICE experts. This is in collaboration with the City Government of Davao, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

One of the key developments in the business meetings industry is the rise of “bleisure” or combining business and leisure travel experiences. Davao stands as a shining example of the country’s bleisure destinations with its varied cultural and entertainment offerings for business travelers. Davao is home to 11 indigenous tribes and has a rising expat population from varied religious and cultural backgrounds. Blessed with pristine beaches, amazing dive spots, an abundance of flora and fauna, the freshest and quality produce, and delicious cuisines which tourists crave for, Davao City is an ideal bleisure destination. It also continues to grow its capacity as a MICE destination with more venues and accommodations for conventions as well as professionals who show the Philippines’ best quality of hospitality, diversity, peace and stability.

Corporate social responsibility is always at the core of MICECON. This year will be at the Philippine Eagle Center in Barangay Malagos, Davao City. Flowing from the industry’s thrust to highlight sustainability in its tourism efforts, MICECON delegates will visit the sanctuary in the hopes of raising awareness in the preservation of critically endangered species housed in the Philippine Eagle Center. The center welcomes donations as it continues to expand its care for more animal species and breeding of Philippine Eagles.

"We, at TPB are dedicated to promoting sustainability while simultaneously marketing the Philippines as a top travel destination. We constantly make sure to practice sustainable tourism because we gain from both positive and negative impacts on our environment. Through our CSR at the Philippine Eagle Center, we hope to inspire individuals to travel responsibly”, said TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

The event is made possible with the support of the following sponsors: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Abbott Laboratories, Hotel 101, Eudoo Technologies, Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc. and the Engkanto Brewery.

Delicious treats and some entertainment activities will also delight the guests at the conference courtesy of the following sponsors: Villa Margarita, Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao and DOT Region XI on the first day; and Agriya and Pearl Farm, Royal Mandaya Hotel, Acacia Hotel and Rogen Inn, Discovery Samal and the Mayor’s night by the City Government of Davao and SM Lanang Premier and Zegen Management Group on the second day. Davao Region Cacao Council & Annipie Bakery Cafe, Dusit D2 Hotel and Davao Region Coffee Council, and Maan’s Bakeshop and TPB for the Farewell Dinner will cap the last day of activities.

Through Davao’s hosting of MICECON 2023, it is expected to renew ties with its tourism stakeholders, make new connections and position itself as a key MICE destination.

Check out www.micecon.ph for more information.

TPB and DOT to join the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2023 in Indonesia

Tweet

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) will join the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia on 02-05 February 2023 to showcase what the Philippines has to offer to the international market and strengthen business relationships to further boost the country’s tourism.

The ATF 2023 is the biggest annual tourism event in the ASEAN region and is expected to attract more than 2000 participants from more than 25 countries. These include tourism ministers and officials, sellers, international buyers, international and local media as well as trade visitors.

The Philippine participation in the ATF 2023 is one of TPB and DOT’s events lined up for the year to showcase the country’s readiness for tourism, and at the same time, support the private sector by providing valuable networking opportunities to promote their products and services.

With the theme, “ASEAN: A Journey To Wonderful Destinations,” ATF 2023 brings the Philippines and the rest of the countries in the South East Asia region collectively to promote their unique hospitality and cultural diversity, in alignment with the ASEAN vision, “A Destination for Every Dream”.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles noted that the country’s participation in the ASEAN Tourism Forum and other international events, since the easing of travel borders worldwide enabled the Philippines to move forward to a better normal and boost the recovery of the tourism industry.

“These key international shows have proven to drive a significant number of leads and exposure for the country, and we at the TPB are more than ready to be back on the global stage and aggressively put a spotlight on what the Philippines has to offer,” said TPB COO Nograles.

Numerous high-level events will be conducted in the ATF including a meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers, ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), press briefing, tourism conference, and the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) fair.

TRAVEX is a trade-only mart that showcases the world’s largest contingent of ASEAN destination products and services, and facilitates selling, buying and promoting the region internationally.

The Philippines will be joining the TRAVEX fair with a 144 sq. booth which will be participated by sixteen (16) local seller participants. The Philippine delegation will also present updates on the country’s tourism industry in a media briefing session scheduled on 2 February 2023.

TPB will also host a luncheon to showcase traditional Philippine cuisine and a cultural performance for the invited international buyer participants, Philippine private sector sellers, and media on 5 February 2023.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

About the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines is the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism, whose mandate is to promote the Philippines, domestically and internationally, as a leisure, MICE, and investment destination. The agency fulfills its mandate through organizing, participating, or supporting tourism consumer or trade events; expanding media partnerships and advertising; continuing content development and distribution programs; creating thematic and strategic consumer activations domestically and abroad; facilitating familiarization tours for buyers, location scouts, and diplomatic corps members; and engaging its TPB membership program.

‘Go where your mind’s been wandering’ – A new campaign by the DOT, TPB, and BBDO Guerrero

Tweet

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) have launched a beautiful outdoor, press, and online campaign, with the help of BBDO Guerrero, to promote domestic tourism in the Philippines as the country recovers from the pandemic and travel restrictions are eased.

The campaign 'Go where your mind's been wandering,' highlights the re-opening of 10 popular tourist destinations, from white sand beaches to strawberry farms, in captivating photos that illustrate the unique characteristics of each place and, if you look closely, reveal a silhouette of a hidden face.

From surfing in La Union, diving in Cebu and hiking in Davao, you're sure to find something you love, no matter where your mind's been wandering.

The campaign was produced together with STILLS MNL Photographer Jason Quibilan and UGL Post Production with minimal retouching, inviting domestic tourists to rediscover the beauty of the Philippines - safely and responsibly.

Stop dreaming, start planning, now ‘go where your mind’s been wandering’.

DOT presents virtual concert to promote Manila’s cultural heritage sites

Tweet

The Department of Tourism (DOT), through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), takes a step further in promoting Manila’s cultural heritage sites, collaborating with The Manila Heritage Trail and Manila Heritage Alliance to bring a free virtual concert titled “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila” bannering the music of iconic band Hotdog to performed by various OPM artists.

“The Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila concert will give us the warmth of nostalgia just in time for the holidays. Get ready to sing along to hit songs of Hotdog -- Annie Batungbakal, Bongga ka Day, Beh Buti Nga, Ikaw ang Miss Universe, and of course, Manila, which are just a few of the tracks that have contributed so much to the city’s colorful musical and cultural scene, all while visiting iconic Manila sites from the comforts of your home,”enthused Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, who is set to join Mayor Isko Moreno as special guests at the online event broadcasting on December 13.

The tourism chief shared that the virtual concert is a continuation of the long-running Concert at the Park and Paco Park Presents events of the National Parks and Development Committee (NPDC). Among the sites to be featured in the concert are Manila City Hall, Luneta, Paco Park, Intramuros, Museo Pambata, National Planetarium and Jones Bridge.

“In addition to promoting local travel and the live events industry, we want to offer inspiration to all Filipinos in these trying times,” Puyat explained.

The Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila Concert will be headlined by Bras Pas Pas Pas Pas with Raymund Marasigan, Ebe Dancel, Armi Millare, Yeng Constantino, Blaster Silonga, Nicole Laurel Asensio, Bing Austria, Bea Lorenzo, Rubber Inc., and Gary Valenciano. Boyet Sison will host the event with the concert’s various legs creatively directed by Juno Oebanda, RA Rivera, Paolo Valenciano, Jason Tan, Alco Guerrero and Quark Henares. The concert is produced by Juno Oebanda, Dindin Araneta and Jezreel Apelar with DOT Culture & Arts of Manila Chief Charlie Duñgo and NPDC Executive Director Cecille Romero at the helm.

The concert will be co-presented by the City of Manila, Juancare Foundation Inc., and Viva Music Publishing Inc., and will be available for streaming on the Facebook pages of the DOT, TPB, Intramuros Administration, Nayong Pilipino and NPDC.