Figures at the recent PATA New Tourism Frontiers Forum held in Legazpi, Albay last November 25 to 27 reflected an increased global interest of MICE in the Philippines: 541 delegates from 20 countries, and 21 speakers with diverse topics ranging from sustainable tourism, climate change mitigation, adventure travel to ecotourism best practices, underlining its theme”Ecotourism: Transcending Climate Change”.
“We have a great program lined up, interesting topics, excellent speakers and It is an opportunity for you to hear and learn from prominent, knowledgeable and experienced industry practitioners,” stated PATA Vice- Chairman Andrew Jones.
A day before the forum proper,delegates participated in a first-of-its- kind Technical Tour and Tourism Marketing Treasure Hunt wherein they learned the tricks of the trade on how to market emerging destinations.
Various adventures offered at Legazpi, Albay like trekking, culinary, sightseeing and ATV adventure at different attractions like Lignon Hill, Cagsawa Ruins, Mayon Volcano, Legazpi boulevard, and Daraga Church kept the delegates engrossed in the business of fun.
DOT secretary Ramon Jimenez, in his keynote address about marketing, explained the country’s destination advertising which he differentiated from the regular country branding. This is destination specific advertising which allows advertising on attractions that is specific to each region.
“It’s more fun in the Philippines is based on a simple truth- If nothing else, tourism is fun in the Philippines,”Jimenez remarked.
The New Tourism Frontiers Forum is the newest addition to PATA’s events calendar with Albay as the first to host the event with the theme -“Ecotourism- Transcending Climate Change”.