The Philippines successfully participated in the 37th edition of the Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) which was held from 18 to 22 January 2017. FITUR is the leading tourism fair for inbound and outbound travel for Ibero-American markets.
The Philippines was visible with its 100 square meter country pavilion, featuring its top tourist destinations.
The Philippine delegation was led by Director Verna Covar-Buensuceso of DOT´s Market Development Group and composed of Philippine private sector partners, namely Baron Travel Corporation, Annset Holidays, Indochina Strip Philippines, Corporate International Travel and Tours, Intas Destination Management, Travel Experts, Sharp Travel, El Nido Resorts, Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Group of Resorts and Club Agutaya.
The fair´s last two days, reserved for consumer awareness and promotional activities, saw the Philippine pavilion impressing crowds of people. Visitors of the pavilion were treated to a multisensory experience of live music, entertainment and refreshments.
The performance of beatboxer Neil Rey Llanes and the demonstration of flair bartending techniques by Dennis Barela awed guests of all ages.
The Sindaw Band’s live performance entertained many as they lined up for Filipino ice cream served from an authentic “sorbetero” cart.
This year’s edition of FITUR registered a record participation of more than 135,000 trade visitors and tourism professionals, over 10% more than last year´s figure. It also registered 755 exhibitor stands and the presence of 165 countries. FITUR also hosted the official launch of 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, organized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization.