The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), recently gathered industry stakeholders, tour operators, hotels and resorts, and members of the academe for a one-day discussion on the latest trends in tourism marketing and strategies on how to provide mature and emerging markets an optimal experience to make them stay longer and spend more.
The seminar themed “Philippine Tourism: Trailblazing Responsible Travel and Inclusive Growth” is a part of this year’s Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), the biggest government-organized travel trade event in the country with over 100 local sellers and over 150 international buyers.
Joining the impressive roster of speakers were Thomas Graham, co-founder of MAD (Make A Difference) Travel, who talks about how sustainable tourism is changing the lives of people in communities; Carlos More Rodriguez, chief innovation officer of EON The Stakeholders Relations Group, who shared insights about the new breed of OFWs in the UAE; and San Jeet, the DOT market representative for India, who discussed the profile fo the Indian traveller.
Also sharing their expertise where Donald Patrick Lim, country chief executive officer of Dentsu Aegies Network Philippines, who discussed how the digital age is changing the tourism landscape; Mohd Akil Bin Mohd Yusof, the deputy president of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents and Nelly Nuezca Dillera, deputy executive director for the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), who discussed catering to the Muslim market.
TPB COO Marive Venues Tan, said, “PHITEX is organized not only to provide a platform to connect buyers and sellers, but also to build the industry through education and insightful discussions among stakeholders. Hopefully, we are able to inspire and encourage them to develop tourism products that would provide unique, meaningful experiences for our visitors”.
In the past few years, Southeast Asia has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the region’s distinct cultures, popular attractions, and pristine beaches. The event came in an opportune time to maximize the growth of the tourism industry, especially in the Philippines.
Photo Sources: lonelyplanet.com, faq.ph, Philippines Tourism Promotions Board FB Page
