Message from the DOT Secretary
Welcome to the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2009!
Now an established annual event under the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), PHITEX is now open for participation. This 9th edition is scheduled from 02-03 September 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
Following another banner year for Philippine tourism, PHITEX continues to contribute significantly to the country’s continued growth in visitor arrivals, among others. Considering the global economic situation, our inbound travelers registered a 1.5% increase from the previous year or 3,139,422 tourists. The sustained record has maintained the impetus of tourism investments throughout the archipelago supporting our goal to disperse visitors to the regional destinations.
On behalf of the DOT, we enjoin tourism stakeholders to participate in this lucrative activity expected to be the biggest PHITEX to date. In line with our objective to give you a bigger and better event each year, we will be lining up a minimum of 200 pre-selected buyers for the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) 2009, the principal and business component of this endeavor.
The Buyer Experiential Program will remain an integral part of PHITEX offering our VIP guests an opportunity to sample the spectacular beauty of our islands and experience the warmth of its people. The seminar updates on major and emerging market sources will likewise continue to be an important part of the event for the seller registrants.
We look forward to another beneficial partnership with you.
Mabuhay!
ACE DURANO
Secretary of Tourism