TTE to boost domestic tourism

MANILA, Philippines - The aggressive marketing of the Philippines by both the government and travel agencies here and abroad have paid off with domestic tourism rising steadily, attracting both locals and overseas Filipinos to the different scenic spots and the less-traveled beaches and hillsides of the country.

The Department of Tourism is projecting revenues from domestic tourism to hit P1.4 trillion in 2014, higher by P110.6 billion of the expected earnings from domestic tourism in 2013, due in large part to a forecasted increase in the daily expenditures by domestic tourists.

The DOT estimates domestic tourists to reach 47.7 million in 2014, up from 44.1 million in 2013. The average length of stay of local tourists remains at approximately five nights.

The increasing number of local travelers may be attributed to the promotions and expositions being held by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), which has been organizing the annual Traveltour Expo to be held this year at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City from Feb. 14 to 16.

The PTAA has been holding TTE since 1993, varying from inbound and outbound expos until it decided to promote both inbound and outbound tourism in the latter years, said TTE executive director Marciano Ragaza.

Previous editions of the expo have seen an increasing presence of domestic tourism suppliers such as local airlines, domestic tour operators, hotels and resorts in the various islands, as well as provincial tourism councils which showcase the various destinations around the Philippines.

Very affordable offers and unique packages await those looking to visit and discover more of the islands.

The 21st Traveltour Expo, which promises to be the biggest and most diverse in terms of exhibitors, will be held at Halls 1 to 4 at the ground floor of SMX and Function Room 5 at the 2nd floor, with a total exhibition area of 11,480 square meters. Featuring 53 travel agencies and tour operators (inbound/outbound); 27 airlines; five cruise lines; 96 hotels and resorts; 14 embassies and travel organizations; six theme parks, Traveltour Expo will have something for everyone.

With the theme, “Love Life Love Travel,” Traveltour Expo 2014 features the Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines and Citibank as its major sponsors. Additional sponsors are Globe Telecom and Asia Miles, with The Philippine STAR as the official media partner.

Entrance fees are P50 for the general public (including students and children) and P20 for senior citizens. The public can queue for the best deals and packages (flights and accommodations) from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Feb. 14 (Friday) and 15 (Saturday) and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Feb. 16 (Sunday).