Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco took center stage. She attended the 24th World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit. The event was held in Perth, Western Australia, on October 9, 2024. As a distinguished panelist in the session “What is the Vintage?: The Role of Food & Wine Tourism,” she captivated the audience with her passionate insights alongside industry leaders. Secretary Frasco seized the spotlight. She showcased the Philippines’ remarkable achievements in food tourism. She proudly noted that the country hosted the UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism. It was the inaugural event for Asia and the Pacific, held in Cebu. She spoke passionately about the profound connection between food and Filipino culture. She highlighted its vital role in the National Tourism Development Plan.
Secretary Frasco enthusiastically explored the details of the Cebu Call to Action on Gastronomy Tourism. She presented a compelling vision for the future of culinary tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. She highlighted the ongoing initiatives to craft road maps for culture-based tourism. Her efforts envision the Philippines as the premier food and gastronomy tourism destination in Asia. Secretary Frasco strongly promoted cooperation between the government and the private sector. She emphasized how strategic investments in infrastructure, connectivity, and community empowerment can transform this vision into reality.
At the heart of her engaging presentation, Secretary Frasco highlighted the Philippines’ top culinary destinations. She shone a bright spotlight on Angeles City as Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination. Bacolod City was recognized as the Slow Food Hub for Asia Pacific. Iloilo City also received attention as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy. Adding a personal touch, she shared her deep affection for the Filipino dish “kinilaw.” She highlighted its vibrant flavors and the rich tapestry of local produce. These elements define Filipino cuisine.
The WTTC Global Summit was an electrifying platform. It allowed travel and tourism leaders to collaborate and exchange insights. The 24th edition was themed “Ancient Land; New Perspectives.” It offered a mesmerizing glimpse into Australia’s cultural heritage and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Secretary Frasco’s enthusiastic participation made a lasting impression. Her passion inspired everyone to commit to advancing global tourism’s future.
