The theme of the Philippines’ longest running travel fair, Philippine Travel Mart, is “Love the NextGen Tourism” underlining its intent to bring together almost 300 tour operators, tourism offices, travel agencies airlines, hotels, and resorts in one event that focuses on current tourism trends such as sustainability, digitalization, inclusivity, and health and wellness.
Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) is set to kick off from Sept. 6 to 8 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The theme for PTM 2024 focuses on local destinations, identifying and uplifting new and emerging destinations in the Philippines. The event will also leverage cutting-edge technology to propel Philippine tourism into the next generation era.
“The 35th Philippine Travel Mart is the biggest collaboration of the country’s tourism players,” said Arjun P. Shroff, PHILTOA President. “Our goal this year is to empower the Philippine tourism industry and elevate the entire tourism value chain by integrating our advanced systems and features. We are moving beyond traditional approaches to shape the future of tourism.”
As tourism is one of the most vital contributors to the country’s economy, Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) echoes its strong support to contribute to its continued success in showcasing the Philippines tourist destinations. “This year’s Philippine Travel Mart comes at an opportune time to build on the momentum gained by the industry. Over the past few decades, we have witnessed how this event has sparked interest in various attractions across our 7,641 islands,” imparted TPB COO Margarita Nograles during the PTM’s media launch last August 7 at the Grand Westside Hotel in Pasay City.
Highlighting the four pillars of next generation tourism, PHILTOA 1st Vice President Maria Lourdes Japson emphasized that tourism has transformed, with travelers now craving more meaningful and responsible experiences. To adapt to this evolution, the event will leverage the power of digitization. PHILTOA Secretary-General Harry Atondo elaborated on this innovative approach during the media launch, showcasing how technology will enhance the overall tourism event experience.
Starting with targeted meta ads utilizing the association’s Facebook and Instagram handles (@philtravelmart), PHILTOA will facilitate cross-marketing opportunities between organizers, sponsors, and exhibitors. Event offerings will be prominently featured on the social media accounts to maximize exposure and engagement.
Further innovations include the integration of GCash for push notifications and the introduction of an online ticketing dashboard for pre-event ticket purchases. Guests will experience seamless entry through QR code scanning while online payment gateway is available through G Cash and Union Bank, with Union Bank Visa cardholders having the option to pay in installments. This enhanced experience will not only streamline the event process but also provide valuable data analytics and feedback from guests, contributing to future decision-making.
Last year, the Philippine Travel Mart drew over 60,000 travelers and visitors in search of their next adventures, generating P250 million in sales. “We expect the foot traffic to be greater this year,” said Shroff.
While deals and packages for international trips will be available at the event, it is Philtoa’s hope that Filipino travelers will also grab the chance to explore parts of the country they haven’t experienced before.
This year, PTM will highlight biodiversity in lesser-known destinations such as grape- and lemon-picking in La Union and Benguet. Last year, Misamis Occidental, Marinduque, and the Spratly Islands were featured. Exhibitors are expected to offer even more promotions this year, including up to 50% discounts on staycations and airfare, and special package deals.
The Philippine Travel Mart is supported by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board, and sponsored by UnionBank, G Cash and Philippine Airlines.