The Philippines’ tourism industry is experiencing a resurgence. The much-anticipated opening of the Travel Madness Expo (TME) is fueling this resurgence. The event will take place on 2024-07-12 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista. Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Philippines Chair. Travel Innovators, Inc. President Maria Paz Alberto all graced the event with their presence.
Secretary Frasco expressed her gratitude to the expo’s organizers and participants. She highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing the tourism industry. Her speech, “I am deeply grateful to each of you. I extend my unwavering commitment to collaboration. We will guarantee the Philippines’ continued success on the global tourism stage.”
“Through your efforts, we will achieve new heights in Philippine tourism. We will welcome more visitors to experience the magic of our islands,” she enthused. “Let’s celebrate the vast opportunities that lie ahead, embracing the spirit of adventure and discovery that travel embodies. Together, let’s make the Philippines a destination that captivates hearts.”
As of July 10, 2024, the Philippines has welcomed 3,173,694 inbound tourists. Foreign tourists comprised 92.55% (2,937,293) of this figure, with overseas Filipinos accounting for the remaining 7.45% (236,401).
South Korea remains the Philippines’ top source of foreign tourists, contributing a significant 824,798 visitors, or 25.99% of the total arrivals. The United States of America (USA) follows closely behind with 522,667 (16.47%), while China, Japan, and Australia occupy the third, fourth, and fifth spots, respectively, with 199,939 (6.30%), 188,805 (5.95%), and 137,391 (4.33%) tourists. Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, and neighboring Southeast Asian nations Singapore and Malaysia round out the top ten source markets.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized the expo’s potential to stimulate travel. He highlighted the availability of “affordable rates and convenient packages” for local and international destinations.
TME Chairperson Maria Paz Alberto, celebrating the event’s 11th year, expressed optimism for the industry’s future. “There’s a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air today,” she said. “After the challenges and limitations imposed by the pandemic, people have a stronger urge to travel. They are eager to explore the Philippines and the world.”
The TME 2024 anticipates exceeding 40,000 visitors and attendees, with over 200 exhibitors showcasing their offerings. These exhibitors include local and national tourism organizations, travel authorities, airlines, cruise lines, hotels, and travel agencies.
The theme is “Revolutionizing travel to create magical experiences.” The TME stands as one of the Philippines’ premier travel and trade fairs.
Travel enthusiasts can take advantage of exciting travel packages. These deals are available from July 12 to 14, 2024, between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
