Cavite City - The Cotabato City successfully hosted the final day of the 18th Tourism Promotions Board Regional Travel Fair on August 16, 2026, at the Alnor Hotel and Convention Center, wrapping up a three-day event that highlighted the Philippines' diverse tourism destinations and forged stronger cross-regional partnerships. The fair served as a vital platform for connecting industry stakeholders and promoting domestic tourism across the country.
Event Highlights and Cavite's Showcase
Cotabato City hosted three distinct days of tourism promotion activities throughout the fair. August 14 focused on Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions connecting industry buyers and sellers for tourism product pitches and long-term business matchmaking, creating valuable networking opportunities for tourism stakeholders. August 15 and 16 opened free public access for Business-to-Consumer (B2C) engagement, featuring discounted flights, accommodations, and regional tour packages that made domestic travel more accessible to the public .
Cavite made a significant impact at the fair by highlighting CALABARZON heritage through a cultural tourism promotional video debut, showcasing the province's rich historical and cultural attractions to a wider audience. The TPB's Community-Based Tourism initiatives have previously supported communities across CALABARZON and other regions, providing capacity-building sessions that connect local artisans and cultural practitioners to domestic and international tourism markets . The fair also supported BARMM integration through curated local tours and cultural exhibits, advancing regional investment goals while celebrating the unique identity of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
Strategic Impact and Market Expansion
Cotabato City's hosting of the fair successfully opened economic pathways and increased visibility for emerging domestic destinations across the Philippines. The event strengthened stakeholder synergy among local government units, private operators, and national tourism agencies, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can advance the country's tourism development agenda. TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles has emphasized that such events go beyond traditional matchmaking, serving as platforms for buyers, sellers, and travelers to discover more reasons to love the Philippines while opening opportunities for long-term partnerships . The continued success of the Regional Travel Fair series underscores the Philippines' growing influence in sustainable tourism and the importance of community-driven initiatives in strengthening local identities and livelihoods.
