Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex) 2009
Promising an even bigger and better event this year, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano has again raised the bar by targeting over 200 Buyers for the Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex) slated for 2-3 September 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
According to Durano, “This year’s Phitex is envisioned as a strong avenue for tourism linkages amongst stakeholders in the industry. In a time of economic challenges, it is important to work together to find alternative solutions and creative programs to address these.”
“The Department continually encourages travel within the country to not only stimulate economic growth, but more importantly promote a sense of pride amongst fellow Filipinos, “Durano further said.
Under the theme “Explore, Experience…The Philippines is made to be traveled,” Phitex highlights the country’s unique island attractions, as well as the myriad of activities which travelers can enjoy.
At this early stage, travel-related companies all over the archipelago that are accredited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) may now join the annual business exchange to accommodate a larger set of participants.
Among the travel wholesaler invitees, more than a hundred are expected from Europe, mainly Germany, plus about 40 agents from Russia, Scandinavia and Turkey, a new potential source market. Asian Buyers are anticipated to likewise have a strong showing in the business tables with companies from China, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the ASEAN countries. Rounding up the regions, buyers from Middle East and India, North America and Australia are also participating.
Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr. noted, “The country’s unique 7,107-islands are ideal for those seeking adventure, diving, history, culture, as well as dining and entertainment. This significant event features the limitless possibilities the country offers to local and foreign tourists alike.”
PHITEX ’09 kicks off on September 2, with the Educational Seminars for interested Sellers. As with the recent episodes, DOT is tapping marketing representatives, top travel wholesalers and related authorities to provide delegates with vital information as well as updates on doing business with travel agents from key source and emerging markets.
Event partner Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) will be conducting a choice of new pre-event tours and activities for the Buyers. The Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), which remains the most important component of Phitex, will feature business sessions that provide participants an opportunity to establish rapport and negotiate deals and arrangements with their counterparts. Pre-scheduled appointments will be given each delegate for the intensive business-to-business discussions, which assure quality interaction between buyers and sellers.
“The Buyers will likewise be hosted to an experiential program organized by the DOT Marketing Teams. The familiarization tour for Buyers is an integral part of Phitex offering the VIP guests a chance to sample the spectacular beauty of our islands and experience first-hand the famed warmth of its people,” Jarque said.
Sponsored by Philippine Airlines, Phitex ’09 forms a considerable part of DOT’s aggressive stance to attract more travelers to our shores by directly engaging the major players and big travel firms of the country’s target markets.
Further details are available at www.wowpinoy.net./phitex or by calling the PHITEX ’09 Secretariat with telephone numbers (02) 525-7320 and 525-9318 local 269/258.