The Department of Tourism (DOT) has opened on Wednesday, Oct. 19, the biggest business-to-business (B2B) travel trade event in the country: the 2022 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), which is aimed at helping the tourism industry recover from the adverse effects of the Covid-19 global pandemic.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles highlighted the significance of sustainability in the resurgence of the tourism industry, noting that "We must go beyond the money shot and think of ways to positively contribute to the betterment of the travel industry as a whole."
"Most of all, let us ensure that we not only come in as advocates of sustainable tourism; we must also embrace the regenerative tourism mindset which is to leave a destination better than it was before," Nograles narrated.
Themed ""Embracing Responsible Tourism: Making Better Places to Live in and Better Places to Visit", the 2022 Phitex expo was spearheaded by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.
TPB Philippines is the marketing and promotions arm of the tourism department.
Now in its 21st-year event, Phitex welcomed 132 Philippine sellers and 119 foreign buyers onsite and online to engage in a two-day hybrid Travel Exchange (TRAVEX).
Nograles has seen this event boost the Philippine brand of tourism by showcasing a wider array of tourism packages.
"It is, indeed, an exciting time for all of us, especially since the Philippine tourism industry is now in its recovery stage. Though it might take a while to reach pre-pandemic heights, I'm proud to say that we are slowly but surely rising," said Nograles in her welcoming speech.
Nograles also highlighted the 86.82 percent increase in visitor arrivals compared with last year's numbers.
"It's a big feat and the year is not even over," she said.
The official also emphasized the DOT's 7-point agenda through the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco which centered on the improvement of tourism infrastructure and accessibility; digitalization and connectivity; enhancement of overall tourist experience; equalization of tourism product development and promotion; diversification of portfolio through multidimensional tourism; maximization of domestic tourism; and the strengthening of governance.
The Phitex travel event runs from Oct. 18 to 24 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts.
First established in 1996, Phitex hosts qualified global buyers to participate in tabletop business appointments with Philippine sellers. Experiencing Philippine tourism destinations through pre and post-tours with an end goal of increasing tourist arrivals in the country.