Looking for inspiration for your next local trip around the Philippines? Travel and tour packages from emerging destinations such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the Spratly Islands will be up for grabs in the Philippine Travel Mart happening this weekend, from September 1 to 3, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
The event organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the 34th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) is the biggest and longest-running annual tourism fair that aims to promote popular and rising tourist spots in the country.
The Philippine Travel Mart brings together almost 200 exhibitors from all 17 regions of the Philippines. Exhibitors include hotels, resorts, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, and tourism offices. This one-stop setup makes it easy for patrons to find and book vacation packages from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
One of the most interesting travel packages with exclusive discounts offered to patrons are chartered expeditions to the Spratly Islands. Tour organizer Kalayaan Tourism Development Center will offer a 7-day/6-night tour package in the West Philippine Sea. This once-a-year expedition begins in Puerto Princesa in Palawan and will have 5 destinations – including Lawak Island, Patag Island, and the famous Pag-asa Island as the tour highlights. The cost of this expedition comes with full board meals, internet connection, gear for water sports and recreational activities, and more.
For those eager to explore the beauty and culture of Mindanao, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), comprising Basilan, Sulu, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, and Maguindanao del Norte will have their own pavilion at the fair. Hassle-free tour packages will be offered focusing on the region’s unspoiled beaches, exotic food, and distinct architecture.
Those attending the PTM will have the rare chance to avail of exclusive discounts and deals for on-the-spot bookings.
According to PHILTOA 1st Vice President, Mary Ann Ong, the domestic market continues to drive tourism in the country, as seen in the strong demand for packaged tours to popular destinations such as Baguio, Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan.
“What the PHILTOA is trying to achieve by way of this fair is to entice Filipinos to discover hidden gems such as the Zamboanga Peninsula, Quirino, and Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos). These are just some of the places that are under the radar but deserve to be explored, appreciated, and enjoyed,” said Ong.
“The 34th Philippine Travel Mart is not only a showcase of our country’s incredible destinations but also a celebration of our industry’s resilience and strength as a major contributor to the country’s growth and progress,” said Fe Abling-Yu, President of the Philippine Tour Operators Association.
The 34th Philippine Travel Mart is happening on September 1 to 3, 2023, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, and supported by the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, and PTM partners Philippine Airlines, BPI, and Aliw Broadcasting Corp.
For more information, visit www.philtravelmart.com