The Philippines’ longest running travel fair is back. Philippine Travel Mart will take place at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay from Sept. 6 to 8, bringing great travel packages, deals, and discounts for more adventures across the country and abroad.
Through the years, the fair has become popular for showcasing diverse destinations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao with its grand regional pavilions.
Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the 35th Philippine Travel Mart will bring together almost 300 tour operators, tourism offices, travel agencies, airlines, hotels, and resorts in one event. The theme this year is “Love the NextGen Tourism,” signifying PHILTOA’s focus on the tourism trends of sustainability, digitalization, inclusivity, and health and wellness. “The 35th Philippine Travel Mart is the biggest collaboration of the country’s tourism players,” said Arjun P. Shroff, PHILTOA President.
Last year, the Philippine Travel Mart drew approximately 60,000 travelers and visitors generating P250 million in sales. “We expect the foot traffic to be greater this year,” said Shroff. “Attendees come to enjoy, look, book and buy.”
How much of the Philippines have you already explored? Last year, attendees got the chance to book tour packages from all corners of the Philippines, including the Spratly Islands and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. This year, a number of exhibitors will also sell packages to popular international destinations—Asia, the US, Europe and Australia, as well.
“Philippine Travel Mart always puts the spotlight on Philippine tourism,” said Harold S. Atondo, PHILTOA’S secretary general. “Every region has its booth representing their unique and beautiful destinations, rich culture, culinary delights, and more to entice the public to visit.”
“The 2024 Philippine Travel Mart offers a one-stop shop for travel enthusiasts to explore new destinations, plan their trips, and avail of exclusive discounts,” said Maria Lourdes F. Japson, PHILTOA’s 1st Vice President.
Visitors can go on a mini tour of the Philippines and tick off destinations on their bucket list at great prices. Some exhibitors will be participating at the Philippine Travel Mart for the first time this year, bringing fresh offerings and giving guests more options and travel opportunities to choose from.
The theme emphasizes the importance of tourism practices that will benefit future generations.
Sustainability means to “embrace eco-friendly travel that protects our environment and supports local communities. Travel today, treasure tomorrow,” said Japson. Digitization means enjoying smarter travel through AI planning, virtual reality explorations, and intuitive apps, as digital travel means smarter travel. Inclusivity invites visitors to “engage in community-based tourism that empowers locals and celebrates diversity,” as “travel that empowers.” Finally, for health and wellness, one can “find rejuvenating experiences that enhance well-being, through travel that heals.”
The Philippine Travel Mart is one way PHILTOA gives local tourism a boost, Shroff said. “Through the event, we are able to empower all regional members and partners to come meet their customers face to face. This creates a lot of jobs in the tourism industry to help support the nation’s tourism growth.” 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.
Going to the 35th Philippine Travel Mart? Here are some tips from PHILTOA’s Board of Trustees:
“Don’t miss the food tasting, the mini regional experiences, the performances of each region, and of course the great deals! Keep your ticket because you might just win a prize,” said Shroff. “Plan ahead by reviewing the list of exhibitors and schedule of activities to prioritize your visit,” Japson said. “Bring essentials—a notebook, pen, and reusable bag for brochures and giveaways. Take part in interactive booths, cultural performances, and travel seminars. Look out for time-sensitive promotions and discounts available only during the fair. Use the opportunity to connect with travel industry professionals for insider tips and recommendations.”
“Come early in the day, when the sellers are not so busy yet, to have a more in-depth discussion and find the best deals,” added Mary Ann F. Ong, PHILTOA’s 2nd Vice President.
Visit the Philippine Travel Mart from Sept. 6 to 8 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Visit philtravelmart.com, email philtravelmart@philtoa.com, and follow @philtravelmart on Facebook and Instagram.
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. Media partner is NEO Retro Radio FM.
