The country’s biggest domestic travel fair that will showcase nearly 200 exhibitors and tour packages spanning the Philippines’ 17 regions including the Spratly Islands and BARMM
Travel and tour packages from emerging destinations such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Spratly Islands will be included in the forthcoming Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) slated September 1 to 3, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the 34th PTM is the biggest and longest-running annual tourism fair focused on promoting popular and upcoming tourist spots in the country.
With nearly 200 exhibitors from all 17 regions of the Philippines, it brings together hotels, resorts, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, and tourism offices under one roof. The one-stop setup makes it easy for travel fair patrons to peruse vacation packages from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Chartered expeditions to the Spratly Islands, organized by the Kalayaan Tourism Development Center, will offer a 7-day/6-night tour package in the West Philippine Sea. The expedition begins in Puerto Princesa in Palawan and will have five destinations – including Lawak Island, Patag Island, and the famous Pag-asa Island as the tour highlights. The cost of this expedition is inclusive of full board meals, internet connection, gear for water sports and recreational activities, and even massage.
The BARMM, comprising Basilan, Sulu, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, and Maguindanao del Norte will have their own pavilion wherein tour packages highlighting the region’s unspoiled beaches, exotic food, and distinct architecture.
Visitors of the PTM will have the advantage of availing discounts and deals available only for on-the-spot bookings.
“It’s still the domestic market that is driving tourism in the country,” says PHILTOA 1st vice president Mary Ann Ong. “We see this because of the strong demand for packaged tours in popular destinations like 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.”
The PTM serves as a significant platform for promoting domestic tourism, and it is a testament to the power of collaboration within the travel industry.
“We are grateful for the strong partnerships with PHILTOA, the Department of Tourism (DOT), Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), Philippine Airlines, and our media partners. 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 PHILTOA.
Get a chance to win free entrance tickets.
Follow and Like PTM’s Facebook and Instagram pages @Philtravelmart.For more information, visit www.philtravelmart.com.
