MAKATI CITY — Makati City strengthened its presence on the national tourism scene as the Makati City Tourism Office, under the Museum and Cultural Affairs Office (MCAO), joined the 37th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) held from September 4 to 6, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Representing Makati as a featured coffee and cocktail destination at the Department of Tourism–National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) booth, the city presented a modern take on urban tourism by blending technology, local culture, and authentic lifestyle experiences.
Technology Offers a New Way to Discover Makati
The Makati booth gave visitors an interactive way to experience the city through digital innovations. A Virtual Reality (VR) photobooth powered by iAcademy allowed attendees to place their real-time photos against backgrounds featuring iconic Makati destinations, creating personalized travel moments. An augmented reality (AR) feature further enhanced the experience by presenting a detailed 3D model of Makati City Hall. Through these immersive technologies, visitors were able to explore the city's landmarks in a creative and engaging way even before setting foot in the actual destinations.
Coffee, Creativity and Local Experiences
Beyond its technology-driven attractions, Makati's participation highlighted the city's growing reputation for coffee, cocktails, and creative culture. Visitors who stopped by the booth received discount vouchers for selected cafés, including The Curator, MOAI, and Po&Pilar, giving them an opportunity to discover Makati's café scene. The booth also featured lifestyle publications such as The Nest from Barangay Magallanes and Pob1210, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's vibrant creative community. City tour guides Aira and Krizzel likewise welcomed guests and shared information about Makati's tourism offerings.
Makati Brings Urban Tourism to a National Audience
Makati's participation in the travel mart highlighted the city's position as a creative and cultural center in the heart of Metro Manila. By bringing together immersive technology, local flavors, lifestyle, and cultural experiences, the city presented a tourism identity that goes beyond its modern skyline. Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the Philippine Travel Mart is the country's longest-running domestic tourism fair. Makati's participation provided the city with an opportunity to introduce its distinctive blend of contemporary sophistication and cultural character to travelers and tourism stakeholders from across the country.
