Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo / Special to the BusinessMirror LONDON—The recent World Travel Market (WTM) has opened new markets for the Philippines to explore and sell to international travelers, but at the same time, raised connectivity issues that make travel to and within the country more expensive than other Asian nations.
This developed as Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles told the BusinessMirror, “Our participation at the WTM in London has been an incredible success, generating an initial P430 million in sales leads, which is significantly higher than last year’s P259 million in sales leads.” There were also 40 bookings actually closed between the Philippine sellers and foreign buyers, she added, so the final sales figures could be higher. She said, “The Philippine stand captivated an international audience with a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture, featuring traditional crafts and dances, global fashion, experiential activations, and a strong and inspired sales force.
Every element highlighted not only the Philippines’s rich heritage, but also our commitment to responsible tourism practices. The overwhelming response affirms the growing global interest in the Philippines as a unique and sustainable travel destination.” The TPB is the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism.
Many of the sellers confirmed the heightened interest in the Philippines, sharing that many European travel buyers are trying to .
