37th Philippine

PHILTOA Represents Philippine Travel and Tour Operators at ASEAN Investors Roundtable on Sustainability and Resilience
Yesterday, June 16, 2026, at Conrad Manila, the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) was honored to be the only travel and tour operators association invited to participate in the ASEAN Investors Roundtable on Sustainability and Resilience, representing the perspective of ground operators who directly shape and deliver tourism experiences across destinations
PHILTOA President Maria Lourdes Flor Japson represented the association in this important high-level dialogue, highlighting the vital role of tour operators in investment assessment, destination readiness evaluation, product development, and market access. As industry players working directly on the ground, tour operators provide real-time insights on traveler behavior, operational realities, and destination dynamics ensuring that tourism investments are not only strategic on paper but also practical, market-driven, and sustainable in implementation.
This participation reinforces PHILTOA’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to ASEAN tourism investment conversations and strengthening collaboration toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism future.

#PHILTOA
#ASEANTourism
#SustainableTourism
#TourismInvestment
#TourismResilience
#MariaLourdesJapson
#BuildingDestinationsTogether

FATA 2nd Board Meeting | Advancing ASEAN Tourism Collaboration
On June 14, 2026, tourism leaders from across the ASEAN region convened at the Sedona Hotel, Yangon, Myanmar for the 2nd Board Meeting of the FATA – Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), presided over by FATA President and PHILTOA President, Maria Lourdes Japson.
The meeting highlighted key updates and strategic directions aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and coordination among member associations.
Among the key agenda items was the newly developed FATA website, now serving as a dynamic platform for collaboration, visibility, and information sharing across the ASEAN tourism community. Updates were also presented on the ROS (Registration of Society) in Malaysia, ensuring continued organizational compliance and strengthening institutional governance within the federation.
Member countries also shared country updates, reflecting tourism developments, recovery progress, and emerging opportunities across the region. The Board further discussed proposed regional projects aimed at deepening partnerships and advancing sustainable tourism growth throughout ASEAN.
The meeting reaffirmed FATA’s shared commitment to a more connected, collaborative, and forward-looking ASEAN tourism industry.
One ASEAN. Stronger Together.

#FATA #PHILTOA #ASEANTourism #RegionalCollaboration #TourismLeadership #StrongerTogether

Strengthening ASEAN Tourism Through Collaboration!
The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) proudly participated in the Myanmar Travel Fair 2026, reaffirming its commitment to fostering stronger tourism partnerships across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.
Representing both PHILTOA and the Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), Maria Lourdes Japson, FATA President and PHILTOA President, served as one of the Keynote Speakers and Panelists during the opening day discussions, sharing insights on regional tourism cooperation, market development, and sustainable growth.
On the second day, PHILTOA First Vice President Mary Ann Ong and Immediate Past President Arjun Shroff joined distinguished industry leaders as panelists, contributing valuable perspectives on tourism recovery, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.
The Myanmar Travel Fair continues to serve as an important platform that brings together tourism stakeholders, industry leaders, and policymakers to strengthen regional connectivity, create new business opportunities, and advance a more resilient and integrated ASEAN tourism industry.
As tourism continues to bridge cultures, economies, and communities, events like these demonstrate the power of collaboration in shaping a stronger and more sustainable future for Southeast Asia.
Together, we move forward as One ASEAN.
#PHILTOA #FATA #MyanmarTravelFair2026 #ASEANTourism #TourismCollaboration #OneASEAN #StrongerTogether

𝐀 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦: 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐓𝐎𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐎𝐓 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲

The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) was honored to participate in a courtesy call and collaboration meeting with the Department of Tourism’s newly appointed Secretary, Maria Bernardita “Dita” Angara-Mathay.

PHILTOA sincerely appreciates the invitation extended by the Department of Tourism to be among its key private sector partners in supporting and advancing the agency’s new domestic tourism initiatives. This engagement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the tourism industry through meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss areas of mutual interest, including the promotion of domestic travel, development of emerging destinations, enhancement of tourism products and experiences, and initiatives that will create greater opportunities for local communities and tourism stakeholders across the country.

As PHILTOA celebrates its 40th year of service to the Philippine tourism industry, the Association remains steadfast in its commitment to work hand in hand with the Department of Tourism and its partners in building a more resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism sector.

We look forward to contributing our expertise, industry network, and collective experience in helping shape programs that encourage more Filipinos to explore the richness of our destinations and further strengthen the Philippines’ position as a premier tourism destination.

Together, we move forward with a shared vision of a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry that benefits our travelers, communities, and the nation as a whole.

#PHILTOA
#PHILTOA40
#LoveThePhilippines
#DomesticTourism
#TourismPartnership
#TourismIndustry
#PhilippineTourism
#MovingForwardTogether

Spotlight on Quezon Province
BusinessMirror
Tourism & Entertainment section Story by John Eiron Francisco
Issue date: June 6, 2026

Mabuhay! 🇵🇭✨

Thank you to TikTok Philippines and all PHILTOA Accommodation Members who joined today’s exclusive Hospitality TikTok Workshop at the TikTok Office, BGC.

This successful partnership highlights our shared commitment to making Philippine tourism more digital, innovative, and social media-forward. We hope the insights on travel discovery, content creation, and hospitality marketing will help our members better connect with today’s travelers.

Together, we continue to strengthen Philippine tourism through collaboration, learning, and innovation.

#PHILTOA #TikTokPhilippines #DigitalTourism #HospitalityMarketing #TourismInnovation #TravelOnTikTok

Navigating stronger partnerships for a more connected Philippines at the 2GO Summer Socials held on May 29, 2026.

Representing PHILTOA were Treasurer Linda Tan and Board of Trustee Grace Cipriano, who joined fellow tourism stakeholders and industry partners in strengthening relationships, exploring business collaborations, and participating in the ship inspection activity.

As the country continues to navigate the challenges brought by the global oil crisis, strengthening domestic tourism through sea travel becomes even more relevant. 2GO plays a vital role in connecting islands, communities, and destinations while providing accessible and efficient travel options that support the growth of local tourism economies.

Aligned with PHILTOA’s mandate of promoting sustainable and resilient tourism development, initiatives like these create stronger industry synergy, open new opportunities for collaboration, and encourage Filipinos to rediscover the beauty of our islands through domestic travel.

Together, we move forward in steering Philippine tourism towards greater connectivity, resilience, and sustainability.

#PHILTOA #2GOSummerSocials #DomesticTourism #SeaTravel #TourismCollaboration #PhilippineTourism #SustainableTourism

𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐓𝐎𝐀 𝐱 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬 is finally happening! 🇵🇭✨

Join us for the pilot episodes of this exciting collaboration as we explore the beauty of 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐳𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞—its rich culture, heritage sites, delicious food, and must-visit tourism destinations! 🌴⛪🍴

Kasama niyo pa rin si Beshy Hazel Esguerra for fun kwentuhan, travel discoveries, and stories straight from the people behind Quezon tourism ngayong 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟏 𝐭𝐨 𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 🎙️

📻 Listen & watch us here:
• 1278 kHz AM
• Radyo Magasin Facebook Page
• Radyo Magasin YouTube Channel
• PBS Receiver Mobile App

Sama-sama nating isulong ang lokal na turismo ng Pilipinas, one place at a time. 🇵🇭

Kita-kits, mga beshy! 🩵

#PasyalPinas #PHILTOA #LoveQuezon #LoveThePhilippines #RadyoMagasin1278

The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) participated in a high-level dialogue with the Embassy of China, led by His Excellency Jing Quan, together with key stakeholders from the Philippine tourism industry engaged in strengthening tourism exchanges between the Philippines and China.

Representing PHILTOA was 1st Vice President Mary Ann Ong, who joined the meaningful discussions focused on strengthening tourism and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

Among the key points discussed during the meeting were the increasing number of new flights from China to the Philippines, seen as a positive development that will benefit tourism businesses and create stronger connectivity for both markets.

For outbound travel, Philippine travel agencies raised concerns regarding the additional biometric requirements in the Chinese visa application process, which have lengthened processing time for travelers. Suggestions were raised on possible streamlined procedures for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and PRC ID holders, although the Chinese Ambassador also shared that such measures may be perceived as discriminatory toward other applicants.

On the inbound side, the 14-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese tourists was recognized as a significant boost to Philippine tourism. Discussions also highlighted the importance of including destinations such as Boracay and Bohol as additional visa-free entry points to further encourage arrivals from the Chinese market.

The Chinese Ambassador also emphasized that one of the primary concerns among Chinese travelers is the issue of safety and security while visiting the Philippines; an area both sides acknowledged must continuously be addressed through cooperation and positive engagement.

The dialogue further underscored the importance of massive familiarization initiatives involving both media and travel agents to help improve perceptions, increase destination awareness, and rebuild confidence between the two countries.

Despite existing challenges, the meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides recognizing the strong interest of both Chinese and Filipino travelers in visiting each other’s countries: a promising sign for stronger tourism exchanges in the years ahead.

#PHILTOA
#PhilippinesChina
#TourismCooperation
#TourismExchange
#BridgingCultures
#TourismIndustr

Congratulations to Quezon Provincial Travel and Tours Association headed by its President Michael Roxas who used to be the 2nd VP of PHILtOA for making history as the FIRST Affiliate Association Member of Philippine Tour Operators Association for 2026!
This milestone became even more meaningful as QuePATTA, together with its six (6) member-agencies inducted under Regular Membership, officially joined the PHILTOA family during the pilot run of the PHILTOA LakBAYANIHAN Caravan held last May 21, 2026 at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan.
This historic induction signifies stronger regional collaboration, unity among tourism stakeholders, and PHILTOA’s continuing commitment to inclusive growth and grassroots tourism development across the country.
We welcome QuePATTA and its members to the growing PHILTOA community as we move forward together in promoting sustainable, resilient, and proudly Filipino tourism.
#PHILTOA
#LakBAYANIHANCaravan
#QuePATTA
#TourismCollaboration
#RegionalTourism
#ProudlyPHILTOA

For 2026, the fair is introducing a wonderful theme: “Nurturing the NextGen Tourism,” paired with the rallying cry “Discover Your Philippines.” It is a heartfelt invitation for all of us to look closer to home and explore the incredible, diverse destinations right in our own backyard. To make sure every corner of the country is represented, the Department of Tourism is bringing in all of its administrative regions — from the northern heights of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to the vibrant culture of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

PHILTOA members share their unforgettable experience during a familiarization tour in Kashmir. From the warm hospitality of the Kashmiri people to breathtaking scenery and immersive cultural experiences, they were impressed by the beauty and charm of the region. With excellent accommodations, delicious food, and safe travel, they highly recommend Kashmir as a must-visit destination year-round.

#PHILTOA

#IndiaFamiliarizationTour

#BoundbytourismDriverbyunity

#KashmirFamiliarizationTour

One of PHILTOA’s Familiarization Tour in Kashmir representative Ms. Carlota Casas of EC Mind Tours experienced the exquisite Kashmirian tapestry and was featured on a local online news channel.

Experience the vibrant culture and craftsmanship of this beautiful region with your trusted travel agents/members soon!

Philippine Tour Operators Association all set to unveil exciting destinations at 35th Philippine Travel Mart
BusinessMirror | BMPlus | Tourism

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — Philippine Tour Operators Association Inc., the country’s leading and largest travel and tours group, and the provincial government of Negros Oriental joined hands in efforts to spur the tourism industry in the province.

2024 targets

For 2024, executive director and provincial tourism board chair of Negros Oriental Tourism Council Woodrow “RR” Maquiling Jr. said that the province targets 500,000 tourist arrivals, an increase from last year’s 272,000 inbound tourists.

The 2024 tourist arrival target is still far from the more than 1 million tourist arrival record in 2019, the last full year before the Philippines implemented travel restrictions due to COVID-19.

Maquiling, however, said that despite this, the Negros Oriental tourism numbers are picking up, reporting that in the first quarter of 2024 the province beached its 125,000 quarterly target and registered 142,000 tourist arrivals. This is a 155% increase from the 55,000 registered in Q1 of 2023.

He added that the Department of Tourism estimates that the 142,000 is equivalent to P2.8 billion revenue circulating among the people of the province.

The provincial tourism official said that tour operators can help Negros Oriental recover from the impact of COVID-19 and promoting the province to international and local clients.

“We had four governors in one term at the capitol. All the help you can extend to the province and the people of Negros Oriental ensuring that our tourism stays afloat is very much appreciated,” Maquiling said during the business-to-business session with PHILTOA and local stakeholders.

“PHILTOA will help us reach our goals, our targets. If we continue to push harder, maybe we can reach 600,000 arrivals by the end of the year,” he said in another speech last May 19, adding that 550,000 to 600,000 is equivalent to P10 to P12 billion revenue for the province.

Negros Oriental has faced several challenges amid the changes in leadership following the controversial killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

Currently, the province is led by Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarría who assumed office in May 2023. Maquiling said tourism is among the top priorities of the incumbent provincial government who wishes to push tourism, culture and arts as an economic driver for the people of Negros Oriental.

As a reciprocal gesture to the warm welcome of the provincial government, the tour operator members of PHILTOA and members of the press visited Negros Oriental from May 16 to 19 to immerse in the tour offerings of the province and its capital Dumaguete City, dubbed the “City of Gentle People.” This coincided with the centennial celebration of the capitol.

The following members joined the familiarization tour eyed to market the diverse tourist destinations of the province including the world-famous Apo Island, Manjuyod White Sandbar, Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes, Dumaguete City’s historic gems such as the Belfry, Siliman University, St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and the heart of the city, Rizal Boulevard, among others:

• Bacolod Tour Guide Co. Ltd. – Nathan Rio
• Dakila Prime Travel and Tours Corp. – Andrei Ivan Lacsamana
• A Whole New World Travel Express – Crizelle Joya
• Strikers Travel Corp. – Maria Lourdes Japson
• Bridges Multi Business Services Inc. – Mary Ann Ong
• Guide to the Philippines – Joymie Nifas
• Aiesha Travel And Tours – Adenida Estabillo Bacud
• Air Lounge – Jennel Balajadia
• ATD Xperience – Harold Atondo
• Gethrose travel – Genebeth Advincula
• EC Minds Tour – Dave Camacho
• Neth Travel and Tours – Romulo Lumibao Jr.
• Landsair Tours And Travel Corp – Maggie May Pereda
• Rajah Travel Corporation – Mark Ren Apolinar
• Biyaheko – Kathleen Guinto
• PHILTOA – Jovy Caldejon and Ella Marie Edera

They also networked with the province’s fellow tour operators and hospitality groups including the Negros Oriental Association of Travel and Tour Agencies and the Negros Oriental Hotel Resort Restaurant Association in business-to-business sessions.