THE government has started to implement policies and programs that will upgrade critical tourism infrastructure and capacity-building for the workforce and entrepreneurs, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

In his speech read by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco during the 34th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) opening ceremony, the President said his Administration’s whole-of-nation efforts are aimed at leveraging on tourism’s strengths and competitive advantages to solidify the sector’s economic position in this age of “revenge travel”.

“As you continue to invest your energies and passion into your trade and craft, you can be assured of this Administration’s fervent support for the entire tourism industry,” the Tourism xhief quoted President Marcos, Jr., who committed of creating a wholesome climate and stable foundation, by fostering more business-friendly environment, as well as improving the security and the rule of law.

The President also acknowledged the vital contributions of small business players and the local government units in the robust performance of Philippine tourism over the years, providing livelihood opportunities to more than five million Filipinos today.

The President lauded the tireless efforts as well of the Department of Tourism under Secretary Frasco and the Philippine Tour Operators Association, Inc. (PHILTOA), calling them as “key players of the industry” and “government’s staunch partners throughout this nation-building journey.”

In her separate presentation, Frasco bannered some of the big wins of the country’s tourism industry in the post- pandemic era.

“As of August this year, we have recorded a total of 3.64 million international arrivals since January,” she shared while noting that the figure is already 75.92 percent of the country’s target of 4.8 million this year.

“We have built the momentum for the tourism industry of the Philippines, and this Philippine Travel Mart is another driving force to push the tourism industry closer to its pre-pandemic levels and further to even exceed it,” the Tourism Chief added.

Recalling the President’s directive, Frasco further said that it is the DOT’s objective to prioritize the emerging destinations of the country.

The three-day PTM, being held from September 1 to 3 at Halls 1 to 4 of the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex, is a powerhouse annual event that brings together the accommodation sector, travel agencies, tour operators, theme parks, airlines, and other tourism-related establishments.

As a one-stop-shop travel trade show, travel-minded public can avail of discounted vacation packages and tour promos from over 200 exhibitors representing the various regions from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

PHILTOA president Fe Abling-Yu said this latest edition of PTM embraces love for travel and discovery.

The PTM 34th edition offers a diverse and wide array of tourism products from a variety of exhibitors. Guests will have a visual feast of the different installations, booths, and displays showing the rich and exciting tourism offerings available in the country.