31st Philippine Travel Mart (Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila

Despite the still ongoing worldwide COVID-19 pandemic crisis, this year’s Philippine Travel Mart (PTM), the Philippines’ longest and largest travel exhibition, will still push through. 

Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), a responsible tourism advocate established in 1986, this travel exhibition, in previous years, was usually held in early September but this years’ PTM will run from December 4 to 6, at SM Megamall Megatrade Hall.  

A few years after its formation, PHILTOA set out its mission to develop a project that would curate, identify and feature different destinations within the country; reaffirm its commitment to stability and social inclusion and endorse sustainability and community engagement through travel products and packages. Thus, the Philippine Travel Mart was born. 

Since starting as a simple trade and consumer show 30 years ago, the annual PTM has now turned into the longest-running interactive showcase for Philippine tourist destinations, working with hundreds of exhibitors every year, ranging from provincial and regional travel agencies, airlines, resorts, and hotels. 

Now on its 31st year, the event will be the second biggest travel event to be held this year after community quarantine protocols have been eased.  Just like in the past, various travel and tour agencies will be offering packages to some of the Philippines’ famed tourist destinations which will, likewise, highlight new discoveries to explore in this high-profile destination. 

This year, its theme is “Fostering Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism.”  As in past years, aside from checking out the PTM’s many interesting exhibits and finding new discoveries, there are also many activities and surprises to look forward to. 

Perfect for celebrating and learning about other Filipino cultures, the expo showcases cultural programs such as the Philippine Tourism Quiz Bee Finals, the Eco Chorale, Himig ng Kundiman, Cultural Dance, and the Patimpalak ng Kasuotang Pilipino. 

For the duration of the event, so that exhibitors and participants can get peace of mind while attending, program coordinators have set up several COVID-19 safety protocols and strict compliance is expected from each. In addition, a physical distance of one to two meters at a time will be observed and a proper face masks and adequate facial shields are required to be worn. Frequent hand washing or sanitizing is also highly encouraged. 

With its many sights and attractions, the Philippines have long been one of the top destinations for foreign adventurers.  However, since inbound travelers are still restricted due to the pandemic, PHILTOA and PTM will focus on domestic tourism and many attending guests are sure to strike some very exclusive deals and discounts.  

In addition to highlighting domestic tourism, the PTM will also open up opportunities for Filipinos to visit international cities in the ASEAN region as well as countries such as China, Japan and South Korea. 

31st Philippine Travel Mart: Summit, 5/F Mega B, SM Megamall, EDSA cor. Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Ortigas Center 1552, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila.  The opening ceremony of the event will begin at 8 AM on December 4, but the exhibition will open to the public at 10 AM and will close at 7 PM for each day of the event. The last day to attend is December 6, and the closing ceremony will be at 6 PM.