Opening of Travel Madness Expo 2026 (SMX Convention Center, Pasay City)

 

L-R: Atty. Carmelo L. Arcilla (Executive Director - Civil Aeronautics Board); Ms. Frances Gail E. Male (SVP and Head of Consumer Business Sector - Metrobank); Mr. Roberto Zozobrado (General Manager and CEO- Philippine Retirement Authority); Mr. Januario Garcia (Mayor - Pagsanjan Laguna); Ms. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (Undersecretary for Migrant Workers and International Economic Relations - Department of Foreign Affairs); Mr. Stanley Ng (Undersecretary - Department of Tourism); Ms. Maria Paz Alberto (TME 2026 Chairperson); Mr. Jaime J. Bautista (former Secretary of Department of Transportation); Ms. Lesley Anne Calixto Rubiano (daughter of Pasay City Mayor); Mr. Bayani Liwanag Jr, (OIC - Pasay City Tourism); and Ms. Diana Cher Lacsamana Batica (Sales Manager- Malaysia Airlines).

Last July 10, 2026, the Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2026, one of the Philippines’ largest and most anticipated mid-year travel and trade fairs, was officially opened at Halls 1 -4 of the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Ms. Maria Paz Alberto, TME 2026 Chairperson, led the opening ceremonies. She was joined by Mr. Stanley Ng (Department of Tourism Undersecretary), Bryan L. Ang (Philippine Airlines Regional Head-Philippines), Atty. Carmelo L. Arcilla (Executive Director - Civil Aeronautics Board); Ms. Frances Gail E. Male (SVP and Head of Consumer Business Sector - Metrobank); Mr. Roberto Zozobrado (General Manager and CEO- Philippine Retirement Authority); Mr. Januario Garcia (Mayor - Pagsanjan Laguna); Ms. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (Undersecretary for Migrant Workers and International Economic Relations - Department of Foreign Affairs); Mr. Jaime J. Bautista (former Secretary of Department of Transportation); Ms. Lesley Anne Calixto Rubiano (daughter of Pasay City Mayor); Mr. Bayani Liwanag Jr., (OIC - Pasay City Tourism); and Ms. Diana Cher Lacsamana Batica (Sales Manager- Malaysia Airlines).  Their presence signaled strong ties between the government and the private sector. 

The opening day was exclusive to Metrobank cardholders who enjoyed early access to the event’s travel preview sale. By showing their valid card and a government ID, Metrobank cardholders also received free admission. That first day, many visitors flocked to the booths to secure flight deals and holiday packages. 

Since its launch in 2012, this premier annual mid-year event, designed as a one-stop shop for all travel-related needs, has connected travelers with the most influential players in the travel industry (airlines, hotels, travel agencies, cruise lines, theme parks, insurance providers, national and local tourism offices, educational institutions, real estate developers, as well as key stakeholders from the retail and food sectors) under one roof. 

For this year’s event, Malaysia Airlines also joins as the Official Airline Partner, while Philippine Airlines serves as the National Airline Partner. On the international front, TME 2026 welcomed new participating destinations including the Republic of Georgia (Georgia Tourism), the Czech Republic (Czech Tourism), and Papua New Guinea (Niugini Tourism Office), alongside returning exhibitors from Japan (Japan National Tourism Office or JNTO), South Korea (Korea Tourism Organization or KTO), Taiwan (Taiwan Tourism Administration), Hong Kong (Hong Kong Tourism Board or HKTB), Malaysia (Tourism Malaysia) and Guam (Guam Visitors Bureau).  

Enjoying strong support from tourism authorities, the expo, held over three days (July 10-12), has created a trusted and credible marketplace for both consumers and industry professionals and allows consumers to plan, book, and customize their trips in one convenient venue. To plan their next journey, visitors can find everything they need - from airfare and accommodations to pocket WiFi, destination sights and attractions, tours, and travel essentials. The expo also promotes domestic tourism and authentic travel experiences by connecting travelers with local tourist spots and activities. Aiming to deliver the best travel deals of the year, TME 2026, renowned for its energetic atmosphere and immersive showcases, featured destinations, cultures, and experiences from around the world as well as exclusive, limited-time offers and on-the-spot bookings available only during the event, making it a must-attend mid-year event for travel enthusiasts and industry stakeholders alike. 

TME 2026, with its strong mid-year positioning and commitment to delivering exceptional value, meaningful connections, and unforgettable travel inspiration, continues to set the standard for travel expos in the Philippines—year after year.