From September 6 to 8, the Mall of Asia SMX Convention Center in Pasay City became a hub of excitement and discovery as the Philippine Tours Operators Association (PHILTOA) hosted the 35th Philippine Travel Mart with the theme "Love the NextGen Tourism".
The 35th Philippine Travel Mart showcased around 300 exhibitors, presenting a diverse array of popular and emerging destinations across the Philippines. Visitors enjoyed exclusive deals and discounts, making it an ideal opportunity to explore the beauty of every regions from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The theme "Love the NextGen Tourism" emphasized tourism practices that would benefit future generations. It highlighted four key pillars: sustainability, digitization, inclusivity, and health and wellness.
According to PHILTOA President Arjun Shroff, this year’s Travel Mart was a significant step toward advancing tourism in the country through innovation and collaboration.
“The 35th Philippine Travel Mart was a testament to our commitment to next-generation tourism,” said Shroff. “It served as a platform for sharing knowledge, forging partnerships, and showcasing the best of what the 7,641 sun-kissed islands of the Philippines had to offer. Attendees found a vibrant tapestry of destinations, culinary delights, amazing experiences, and innovations that reflected the dynamism and resilience of the Philippine tourism industry.”
Meanwhile, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized the importance of initiatives like the Philippine Travel Mart in the recovery and growth of the tourism industry.
“As we opened the doors to the 35th Philippine Travel Mart, we remembered that the success of Philippine tourism was built on unity, hard work, and shared purpose. We had come this far because of our combined efforts, our perseverance, and our common love for our country. I was confident that through our continued collaboration—with PHILTOA, the private sector, local government units, and all our partners—Philippine tourism would thrive and ascend to its full potential,” Frasco stated.
Last year, the Philippine Travel Mart attracted over 60,000 visitors and generated PHP 250 million in sales. The 35th Philippine Travel Mart was expected to surpass these numbers, further showcasing the Philippines' vibrant tourism landscape.
