The Department of Tourism (DoT) of the Philippines, in collaboration with various public and private stakeholders, is set to host the 36th Joint Commission Meeting of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, and the Commission for South Asia (CAP-CSA), alongside the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu.
Scheduled for June 26–28, 2024, these back-to-back events are anticipated to attract over 400 delegates from CAP-CSA countries, associate members, affiliate members, UN Tourism officials and strategic partners, ministers, and representatives from the diplomatic corps, academe, gastronomy sector, national and local government, legislators, and media from more than 30 countries.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the country’s readiness to welcome the delegates as the event dates draw near.
“We are prepared to welcome all our delegates from UN Tourism member states and affiliates to the Philippines, particularly to Cebu, a province renowned for its rich gastronomy, stunning tourism and dive spots, vibrant heritage and culture, and its significance as the cradle of Christianity in the country,” Frasco said.
The Philippines, represented by Frasco, was elected vice president of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), now known as UN Tourism, during the 55th Meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, held in Cambodia on June 16.
“The Philippines’ hosting of these significant events is also a chance to showcase our strength as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions and attract prospects for partnerships and collaboration within and outside of Asia and the Pacific region, which can redound to growth for the economy and more opportunities for our fellow Filipinos,” Frasco added.
In preparation for the events, the DoT is working closely with public and private agencies to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all delegates.
This includes briefings on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training program for tourism frontliners at airports, billeting hotels, and partner local government units. Additionally, liaison officers, student volunteers, and close-in security will be provided during the meetings.
The DoT’s Regional Office in Central Visayas has conducted thorough inspections of the forum sites and billeting hotels to ensure readiness, focusing on security, emergency preparedness, and room accommodations. Dedicated information counters will also be established at these locations to assist delegates.
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