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| The Philippine delegation led by Tourism Promotions Board Philippines at IBTM World 2024 in Barcelona, Spain (Image Source: The Market Monitor/Tourism Promotions Board Philippines) |
Showcasing the best of what the Philippines has to offer as an ideal Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) destination, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines participated in IBTM World 2024, held last November 19-21, 2024 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via, which yielded $203M (203 million dollars) sales leads. IBTM World is one of the leading global M.I.C.E. events held annually in Barcelona, Spain. The event brings together M.I.C.E. professionals from around the world, including event organizers, suppliers, M.I.C.E. practitioners to connect, network, and do business. This prestigious global M.I.C.E. event provided an unparalleled platform for the Philippines to highlight its world-class offerings and exceptional delegate experiences.
IBTM World features exhibitors that showcase destinations, venues, and services for hosting events. Pre-scheduled appointments are also facilitated between buyers and seller participants to discuss possible partnerships and event opportunities. There were also thought-leadership panels, workshops, and discussions on industry trends, innovations, and best practices for the delegates to learn from. Led by Teresita D.L. Landan who is the Acting Head of the agency's Office of the Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Marketing and Promotions, the TPB also spearheaded initiatives to promote the country’s M.I.C.E. capabilities including a hosted breakfast for over 100 international buyers and media attendees. During the hosted event, the TPB unveiled the banner program M.I.C.E. Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart. In her pre-recorded message, TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles emphasized the country’s strengths in offering world-class facilities, exceptional service, and immersive experiences, stating, “Our mission is to establish the Philippines as a premier M.I.C.E. destination where global events thrive, supported by our world-renowned Filipino hospitality.” Delegates were also treated to Filipino dishes Arroz Caldo and Lumpiang Shanghai and Filipino delicacies banana chips, polvoron, and dried mangoes.
The Philippines continues to rise as a fast-growing economy and an attractive destination for global business events. With its strategic location in Asia, English-speaking workforce, and state-of-the-art venues, the country offers unmatched opportunities for hosting events of all sizes; and with its distinct blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage, the Philippines caters to delegates seeking memorable workation activities. The TPB delegation, which included four co-exhibitors from the Philippines, engaged in business-to-business meetings with international stakeholders during the three-day event. These interactions generated over $200M (200 million dollars) in projected sales leads, reinforcing the Philippines’ growing prominence as a competitive M.I.C.E. hub. The four co-exhibitors are The Manila Hotel represented by Vice President for Sales and Marketing Marvin Kim Tan, Blue Horizons Travel and Tours Inc., represented by Group Director of Marketing Margarita Patricia Valdes, Travelite DMC Philippines represented by General Manager Matt Poonin, and UniOrient Travel and Tours represented by its vice president for product and business development Wilson Technico.
Through its participation at IBTM World 2024, the TPB demonstrated its unwavering commitment to strengthening the Philippines’ presence on the global M.I.C.E. stage. With the support of strong government-private partnerships, the Philippines is ready to welcome international events, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. The Philippines invites the world to experience where business meets heart, promising exceptional hospitality, unique experiences, and a destination unlike any other.
