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The 13th Regional Travel Fair (RTF) has concluded its highly successful run in General Santos City, generating an impressive PHP 385,503,953 in sales leads and PHP 21,232,710 in actual negotiated sales. The event, held from September 27-29, 2024, established vital connections among industry stakeholders while showcasing the SOCCSKSARGEN regionβs potential as a premier travel destination.
Organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the RTF is a key initiative designed to promote domestic tourism by highlighting the unique attractions and services of host regions.
βWe are delighted with the results of this yearβs Regional Travel Fair,β said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. βThe strong sales
figures underscore a growing interest in domestic tourism, particularly in underexplored areas like SOCCSKSARGEN. This event has illustrated the regionβs vast potential, and we eagerly anticipate more travelers discovering its hidden treasures.β
The RTF featured business-to-business (B2B) sessions on September 27 at the Green Leaf Hotel, where 135 sellers from across the Philippines engaged with 50 buyers to foster partnerships and discuss emerging travel trends. Local tourism officials provided crucial updates and insights regarding the regionβs attractions and tourism offerings.
Business-to-consumer (B2C) sessions took place at SM City General Santos from September 28-29, attracting around 4,000 visitors who explored local artisan products and took advantage of exclusive deals on tour packages, airline tickets, and accommodations. Attendees were treated to vibrant cultural performances and engaging activities such as Travel Bingo and the Tourism Quiz Bee, while various DOT regional offices and event partners showcased the latest tourism updates.
The fair welcomed esteemed guests, including DOT Asec. Judilyn S. Quiachon, DOT Region XII Director Nelia R. Arina, BARMM Bureau of Tourism Director Engr. Marites Maguindra, and TPB Acting Deputy COO for Marketing and Promotions Teresita D.L. Landan, along with General Santos City Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao, represented by Ms. Evelyn Lim.
A special welcome dinner reception for buyers and sellers at the Grand Summit Hotel was attended by key officials, including Director Arina, Director Engr. Maguindra, and Acting Deputy COO Landan, with support expressed through recorded messages from TPB COO Marga Nograles and South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr.
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Aerial view of Strawberry Guyabano (SG) Farm, one of the attractions visited by the RTF buyers. The farm is located in Tupi, South Cotabato.
After the B2B and B2C sessions, participants, media, and influencers embarked on a post-event tour showcasing some of the region’s premier attractions, including the General Santos City Fish Port Complex, CCT Malungon Retreat & Training Center, and the scenic eco-tourism destination of Lake Sebu. This tour emphasized the regionβs commitment to sustainable and community-focused tourism initiatives.
The successful execution of the 13th RTF in General Santos was made possible through collaborative efforts with DOT Region XII, the City of General Santos, the Province of South Cotabato, and partners including 2GO, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and SM City General Santos.
Looking ahead, TPB is excited to announce the next edition of the Regional Travel Fair, which will take place in Roxas City from October 18-20, 2024. This upcoming fair promises even greater opportunities for tourism stakeholders and travelers to explore the rich diversity and beauty the Philippines has to offer.
