Philippines hosts PHITEX 2024, World Travel Awards

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines is set to host the 2024 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) from September 3 to 5 at Conrad Manila, solidifying its position as the country’s premier government-organized travel trade event.

Since its inception in 1996, PHITEX has evolved into a significant platform for the global tourism industry, connecting international buyers with a diverse array of Philippine sellers.

This year’s PHITEX, themed “The Power of Collaboration in Tourism,” aims to foster strong partnerships within the industry, promoting competitive and innovative tourism packages.

“PHITEX has emerged as a pivotal annual marketing occasion that strengthens the Philippines’ brand image,” TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles said.

The two-day Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) will gather 89 international buyers and 116 Philippine seller companies for business meetings, further enhancing the collaborative spirit the event is known for.

In addition to TRAVEX, the PHITEX Educational Program (PEP) Talk will provide valuable insights on industry trends, including sustainability, community empowerment, and positioning the Philippines as an LGBTQIA+ friendly destination.

“The best way to promote a destination is by experiencing it firsthand. We want our partners to create their own travel memories, so they can truly understand why the Philippines is a destination worth visiting,” Nograles said.

As part of its effort to showcase the country’s tourism diversity, PHITEX will offer post-event tours to various destinations, including Bohol-Cebu, Siargao-Bucas Grande, Iloilo-Guimaras, and Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon-Davao, as well as a Metro Manila City Tour.

Adding to the event’s prestige, the Philippines will host the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony for the first time on September 3 at City of Dreams Manila.

Dubbed the “Oscars of the Tourism Industry,” the WTA celebrates excellence in global travel and tourism.

“This not only marks a historical tourism milestone for our country under the Marcos administration, but also serves as a testament to the Philippines’ growing prominence and readiness to host high-caliber international events,” DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

WTA founder Graham Cooke praised the Philippines as an emerging tourism destination.

“Manila is one of Asia’s most exciting emerging destinations, and I look forward to welcoming travel industry leaders from across Asia and Oceania to experience its many charms.”