MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines will lead the largest Philippine delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 since the pandemic, which will be held from November 5 to 7, 2024 at ExCel, London, the Tourism Department revealed.
According to the DOT, the WTM “is one of the leading global business-to-business events for the travel industry.”
The event is expected to bring together tourism professionals, government ministers, and international media to showcase innovations in travel and tourism, the DOT added.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, with the support of TPB Chief Operating Officer (COO) Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, will lead the Philippine delegation to WTM 2024, joined by representatives from three government agencies and 22 private sector tourism stakeholders.
"We see the World Travel Market London as a vital platform to present the Philippines to a global audience, showcasing the distinctive qualities that set our country apart—from our award-winning destinations and vibrant culture to our rich gastronomy, world-class hospitality facilities, and the renowned warmth of the Filipino people,” Frasco said.
“With our largest delegation of tour operators, hotels, and resorts since the pandemic, the DOT and TPB Philippines are strategically positioned to strengthen international partnerships and solidify the Philippines as a premier destination in the global tourism market, reaffirming our commitment to transforming the country into a tourism powerhouse in Asia, as envisioned by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” Frasco added.
Participating tour operators and destination management companies include Annset Holidays, Inc., Baron Travel Corporation, Biyaheko.com Corporation, Blue Horizons Travel & Tours, CTPH Travel and Lifestyle Services, Intas Destinations Management, Inc., My Trips Travel and Tours, Rajah Tours Philippines, Sharp Travel Services Philippines, Inc., Travelite Travel and Tours Co., Uni-Orient Travel, Inc., and VIA Philippines Travel Corporation.
Meanwhile, the hotel and resort sector will be represented by Amorita Resort, Atmosphere Resorts & Spa, Club Agutaya, Inc., Crimson Resorts & Hotels, Lihim Resorts, El Nido by Araw Hospitality, Inc., Misibis Resort & Hotel Management, Inc., Ten Knots Development Corporation, The Bellevue Resort, The Funny Lion, and The Lind Boracay.
“Authentic Travel Experiences” a growing demand in UK
As the UK outbound travel market rebounds, it presents a valuable opportunity for the Philippines, the DOT reveals.
According to Future Market Insights, the UK outbound travel market is valued at USD 90.46 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to grow to USD 206.43 billion by 2034, the DOT shares.
In a report from Global Travel Profiles by YouGov, it indicated that “UK tourists are increasingly seeking destinations that offer value for money, outstanding natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences—qualities that the Philippines offers, the Tourism Department explained.
With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and immersive travel experiences, the country aligns with the evolving preferences of UK travelers, who now prioritize private tours, bespoke itineraries, and sustainable travel options, DOT added.
Data from the Tourism Department showed that as of November 1, 2024, international visitor arrivals to the Philippines have reached a total of 4,879,022. The United Kingdom leads as the top European source of visitors, ranking as the Philippines' ninth-largest source market, with 128,660 arrivals recorded from January 1 to October 31, 2024.
In its 2023 edition, WTM London hosted more than 40,000 travel professionals from 184 countries, solidifying its reputation as the leading platform for industry innovations and opportunities. This year’s event carries the theme "Travel powers the world. How will you use your Travelpower?" emphasizing the industry's role in global connectivity and progress, the DOT said.
