The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), formed in 1993 for PTAA members to access discounted travel deals, recently hosted the 31st TravelTour Expo 2024 and 9th International TravelTrade Expo 2024. Themed “The World Within Reach,” the event took place from Feb. 2 to 4 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos expressed excitement about these events, emphasizing their significance for travelers and the dynamism of the nation’s tourism sector. Despite challenges, PTAA remains dedicated to showcasing the world’s beauty, especially domestic destinations.
This year’s gatherings aimed to build partnerships, showcase innovative travel offerings, and create meaningful experiences for local and international tourists. Uniting travel agencies, a collective effort to position the country as a premier travel destination, providing opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and cultural enrichment, is a major way to forward the country’s tourism development goals.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco officially opened the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) Travel Tour Expo at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Feb 2.
Frasco congratulated PTAA for organizing the 31st edition, citing their dedication to fostering growth and innovation in the tourism sector.
She highlighted the expo’s crucial role in propelling the industry forward, especially in the face of global challenges.
“The excitement for Philippine tourism and the love for traveling is immediately palpable in this very well-executed travel expo for the local and foreign traveler. I’m very happy to be here first to extend my congratulations and my heartfelt greetings to the PTAA for having mounted this travel expo for 44 years and for your invaluable contribution to the growth of the Philippine tourism industry in its 44 years of existence,” Frasco said.
The PTAA TravelTour Expo, a cornerstone event for the travel industry, offers an opportunity for adventurers and holidaymakers to discover travel packages, exclusive deals, and promotional offers from airlines, hotels, resorts, and tour operators.
The expo featured budget-friendly deals from exhibitors, catering to guests with varying budgets. The expo also served as a vital platform showcasing getaways, hidden gems, and emerging destinations in the Philippines.
Eleandro Jesus Madrona, chairperson of the Committee on Tourism, emphasized the annual TravelTour Expo as a significant occasion, while the TravelTrade Expo strengthens ties between international and local travel communities.
Patria Chiong, chairperson of TTE 2024, encouraged attendees to explore booths with various travel offerings suited for different kinds of travelers.
Chiong promised surprises and prizes for participants and contestants, featuring exhibitors from both local and international backgrounds and a balanced mix of domestic and foreign buyers and sellers.
