PASAY CITY, Philippines—Over the course of 3 days, Pangasinan joined in on the fun and celebrated years of festivities at the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM). Originally situated at SM Megamall, the 37th PTM was held at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. This year, the event started on September 4 and lasted up until September 6. On its first day, the opening ceremony started with a festive dance performance
that wowed guests and exhibitors. Mr. Peter Eric Pardo, chief of staff and representative of Pasay City Mayor for the event, shared their heartfelt gratitude for continuously choosing to hold such an event in the city of Pasay, emphasizing that we are “One city, one province, one country.” The Department of Tourism Secretary, Ms. Maria Bernardita “Dita” Angara-Mathay, graced the event and shared a few words with the delegation. Expressing her utmost support to all exhibitors and for events like PTM, which gives Philippine tourism a local platform where Filipinos may explore across the country without having to break the bank.
President of the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Ms. Maria Lourdes Japson expressed her utmost thanks for all the support for all the participating Officials, LGUs, Tourism Stakeholders, sponsors, and for all the guests that chose to be at PTM despite the rainy weather. And as she says, we celebrate a legacy because Philippine Travel Mart is a living story of Philippine tourism. With tourism evolving tremendously; showcasing of products, stories, and culture at PTM is what makes it national tourism. Every year, LGUs look forward to participating in the event, because this is where communities meet opportunities, markets meet their audience, and each booth is a celebration of a mini fiesta. With the Department of Tourism – Region I, Pangasinan ensured to bring delicacies and products that exhibit–goers would most definitely enjoy.
Over the course of 3 days, staff from the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) of Pangasinan, the Local Tourism Offices of Alaminos, Bani, San Fabian stood side-by-side with fellow neighboring provinces in Region 1, and served the best way they could to all guests that came in and out of the booth. Situated at the very front of the stage, foot traffic was at an all-time high for Pangasinan’s station. With guests asking for free food tastings, curiosity for products on sale, and intrigued by the brochure and newest ‘See Pangasinan’ sticker pack, it is safe to say that guests were happy to come across a booth that represents Pangasinan in Metro Manila.
Coming from all walks of life, some fellow Pangasinenses that chose to move to Manila were glad to see a taste of home right where they were. Healing a sense of “Home away from home”, Pangasinan was happy to provide the warmth of our sandy beaches and salty air, even just for a mere moment. While Pangasinan continues to strive and become one of the many primary destinations in the market, guests were amazed by the amount of water attractions the province has. May it be a long ride going to, they say that if the beach is that good, it would be worth it.
The experience in itself for both the staff and the guests is one not to forget. From discovering hidden gems, to tasting provincial specialties, PTM has brought communities closer through an event that celebrates and empowers just that. In the coming years, Pangasinan will remain committed to promoting more of the province. Because people deserve to experience the beauty and wonder of Pangasinan. Not just through their screens, but also in reality. And it’s the exhibits like the Philippine Travel Mart that bring these platforms to provinces just like ours.
PHOTOS: KJCM
/CJVV & MAMO
