Tourism is experience, and as the Department of Tourism (DOT) aims to make the country a tourism powerhouse, collaboration is a must.
Last July 27, the Calabarzon Alliance of Independent Tour Operators Inc. (CAITO) led the 2nd Calabarzon Tourism Business Exchange (CTBEx 2024) with the theme “Bridging Asian Cultures Towards Progress” at the Bellevue Hotel in Muntinlupa City.
The event brought together various local and international tourism and business stakeholders in the regions for collaboration and partnerships that will certainly benefit tourism in the region.
CAITO Founding President and Chairwoman Lorilyn Tepora said that CTBEx is an all-in-one event merging government and private tourism stakeholders.
“I am really proud and happy to see the huge participation. It only shows that you are very proactive and impressive in promoting the Philippines as a must-experience destination in Asia,” said DOT Assistant Secretary Rica Bueno.
“In my more than 30 years of serving the government, I think this is one of the most successful if not the best tourism business exchange aside from our annual Philippine Travel Exchange,” she added.
The event was attended by 130 sellers while 743 registered buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies are expected to attend and explore the services and products offered by CTBEx.
“The travel agencies and the personalized services are key elements of the progress in the tourism scale. It creates jobs, generates income, and it also improves the quality of life. See the great impact you have been creating and for that, I think you should tap your shoulder and applaud,” Bellevue Hotel Manila Vice President Elvi Sanchez Quizon said in her message.
As for the local government’s participation, DOT Regional Director Marites Castro is assuring stakeholders of continuous support and providing training programs to improve the tourism experience in the region.
“Let’s carry forward the spirit of partnership and innovation and may the relationship and ideas inspired today flourish and contribute to the growth and success of Calabarzon region and the whole country’s tourism industry,” she added.
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