#Philippines #Manila #Tourism #PHITEX #MICECONnect

PHITEX + MICECONnect 2025 Drives Tourism Success

The recent PHITEX and MICECONnect 2025, held on September 10, 2025, at Conrad Manila, marked a significant achievement in the Philippine tourism sector. The event successfully generated over PHP 1 billion in confirmed sales leads, far exceeding its initial target of PHP 596.2 million. This is a clear indicator of the Philippines' continuing rise as a premier destination for international travel and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.

The gathering drew participation from 147 local sellers and 114 foreign buyers, spanning prominent markets across the globe. This event underscored the Philippines' attractiveness as a destination for both leisure and business tourism, aligning with the unified theme “Tourism Transformed: Cultivating Connections, Driving Sustainability.”

Business Opportunities and Networking

The core of the event was the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) business-to-business (B2B) sessions, which facilitated over 3,000 one-on-one meetings between sellers and international buyers. The diverse representation of countries like Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, the United States, and many others showcased the Philippines' broad appeal in the global tourism market.

“PHITEX + MICECONnect 2025 highlighted the Philippines' potential on a global scale, providing local stakeholders with opportunities for meaningful partnerships,” remarked Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines. The event emphasized the importance of collaboration in promoting responsible tourism and in propelling industry growth across the nation.

An innovative touch this year was the integration of a digital registration system, allowing delegates to manage their engagements more effectively. This system not only streamlined the scheduling of appointments but also encouraged real-time interactions among attendees through social media platforms.

Exploring the Philippines: Post-Event Tours

Post-event familiarization tours also took place, providing delegates a chance to explore the Philippines beyond the conference halls. Destinations such as Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon, Boracay, and Puerto Princesa in Palawan were on the itinerary for PHITEX delegates. MICECONnect attendees ventured to Cebu-Bohol, Davao, and Clark, where they experienced the rich culture and natural beauty of the Philippines firsthand.

Feedback from international buyers was overwhelmingly positive.