Message from the Secretary General

With preparations in full swing, the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2009 is all set to raise the bar yet again and establish itself among the most lucrative travel events in the country.  At this early stage, Buyer count is already expected to far exceed the 2008 record with a proportionate Seller attendance not far behind.

Having been a Seller in all the editions of PHITEX since it started in 1996; my company, as well as my industry circle, can safely vouch for the event’s effectiveness in carrying out its objective of successfully bringing a significant amount of travel business into the Philippines.  We also attest to its considerable growth over the years, raising the number of delegates over threefold and adding educational programs befitting the participants. 

As the incumbent Secretary General of PHITEX ’09, it is a privilege inviting my colleagues in the travel industry to be a part of this profitable undertaking.   Besides the marketing updates, Sellers will have over 200 pre-selected Buyers to choose from.  Buyers on the other hand will get the chance to sample the myriad wonders of this archipelago and its people’s famed hospitality. 

On behalf of the organizing committee, let me take this opportunity to applaud the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) for this initiative.  My sincere thanks too go to the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) , Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) and Philippine Airlines (PAL) for their immense support. 

We hope you can join all the satisfied participants of PHITEX in 2009. 

Thank you. 


Walter Sultan
Secretary General