The Philippine delegation wrapped up another successful participation in the World Travel Market held in London last weekend.
Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre, spokesman of the Department of Tourism, who headed the Philippine contingent in one of the biggest international travel trade fairs said the country has obviously earned the confidence of travel business clients.
“The message that we are trying to send should be clear. Philippine tourism, which has posted double-digit growth that is three times more than the global average, is experiencing a breakthrough phase,” Alegre said.
He said a big media briefing was held at the Philippine booth which was attended by over 20 British media and travel trade representatives.
“The Philippines’ hosting of the Asean Summit in Manila is definitely a market confidence booster!” Alegre added.
The private sector delegates, including Philippine travel and tour operators and airline representatives, met their counterparts from UK and Europe for the B2B (business-to-business) meetings.
“Siargao is one of the destinations in Mindanao covered by the travel advisory from the British Foreign Commonwealth Office. But the Brits remain the top source of visitor arrivals in this new destination,” said Alegre.
Since last August, there has been 6.36 percent growth out of United Kingdom despite the continuing BREXIT challenges.
Consistent growth rates of tourist arrivals in the Philippines from other key markets in Europe include: Spain (+17.60 percent), Italy (+25.16 percent), Nordic Region (+8 percent), Ireland (+16.47 percent)