Biggest VisMin tour expo set in Iloilo this June
Players enjoy tee time at the Iloilo Golf and Country Club, which was established in 1907. Philippine Travel Agencies Association president Evangeline Tankiang Manotok said the PTAA plans to highlight golf tourism for its VisMin tour since the Iloilo golf course is the oldest in Asia. — Photo from Iloilo Golf and Country Club/Facebook
ILOILO CITY — The country’s biggest travel tour expo in the Visayas and Mindanao is coming to Iloilo on June 6 to 8, bringing with it cheap tour packages, global travel sellers, and a showcase of local culture and products.
The Philippine Travel Agencies Association Inc. (PTAA) has partnered with the Iloilo MICE Alliance to stage the event at the Iloilo Convention Center in Mandurriao.
It will feature the 10th International Travel Trade Expo (ITTE) with 46 sellers from 34 countries meeting with local buyers and tour operators.
“This is our way of bringing travel closer to people. Studies show that people now prefer spending on experiences like travel over material things,” said Charlene Lontoc-Del Rosario, PTAA’s communications head.
The expo will also promote local tourism-related businesses. Go Negosyo will take part to support small entrepreneurs in the travel sector.
A total of 137 booths will be set up to offer affordable tours, crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Hablon Day will kick off the three-day event, with guests encouraged to wear woven clothing and attend a hablon fashion show in the afternoon.
PTAA president Evangeline Tankiang Manotok said the expo will help promote the Philippines to the international market.
She also noted the plan to highlight golf tourism, especially since Santa Barbara in Iloilo is home to the oldest golf course in Asia.
Ilonggo chef Rafael Jardeleza will serve signature dishes during the gala night for foreign delegates to showcase Iloilo’s culinary heritage.
Department of Tourism Western Visayas Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez said the expo will give more exposure to the region’s tourist destinations.
Top travel agencies and tour operators will also join familiarization tours to visit various destinations in the province, helping promote Iloilo as a must-visit destination for both local and foreign tourists. /das
