“Love The Philippines” Feted At Tourism Expo Japan 2024
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano congratulated the exhibitors and Philippine tourism stakeholders at the “Love the Philippines” booth at the Tourism EXPO Japan 2024, 26 September 2024, Tokyo Big Sight. (Photo courtesy of Consul Alvin Malasig, Philippine Embassy)
27 September 2024 – The “Love the Philippines” campaign, spearheaded by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), received the Jury’s Special Award at a ceremony held alongside Tourism EXPO Japan 2024 on 26 September 2024. The campaign was commended for its multi-stakeholder collaboration in promoting the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage, historic sites, diverse tourism resources, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Co-organized by the Japan Association for Tourism Promotion, Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), and Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Tourism EXPO Japan 2024 marks the revival of global travel. Running from 26 to 29 September at Tokyo Big Sight, the event brings together exhibitors from approximately 80 countries and regions, including Japan’s 47 prefectures. For the Philippines, the Expo serves as an invaluable opportunity to engage with Japanese tourists and travel industry leaders, while further strengthening cultural and tourism ties between the two countries.
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano represented DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco at the 7th Tourism EXPO Japan Ministerial Roundtable themed “Creating a New Travel Journey” and held in cooperation with UN Tourism. The Ambassador delivered a statement introducing the “Philippine Experience Program” as part of the “Love the Philippines” campaign.
The Philippine Experience Program redefines tourism by offering travelers an immersive journey into Filipino culture, nature, and community. Participants can live with local families to experience the warmth of Filipino daily life, learn the art of traditional crafts through hands-on workshops, and embark on eco-adventures such as coral planting and wildlife conservation. The program also features culinary explorations, from vibrant market tours to cooking classes that reveal the heart of Filipino cuisine, while volunteer opportunities allow travelers to give back through projects that support education, agriculture, and local development. Moreover, the program showcases the Philippines’ colorful festivals that offer visitors a true taste of the country’s lively spirit.
“The Philippine Experience Program is more than just a vacation – it’s a journey of personal growth, cultural exchange, and unforgettable memories. It’s about forging connections that transcend borders and building bridges between cultures,” said Ambassador Garcia-Albano as she delivered the Philippines’ national statement during the roundtable.
The Ambassador also visited the Love the Philippines booth featuring eight hotels and resorts, three airlines, three DOT-affiliated agencies, and one tour operator.
Every last week of September, the Philippines celebrates National Tourism Week, as declared in Proclamation No. 894. The event aims to “instill national consciousness on tourism as an instrument of progress.” It also aligns with the global observance of World Tourism Day, held annually on 27 September, as designated by the World Tourism Organization. END
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano unveiled the Philippine Experience Program under the “Love the Philippines” tourism campaign at the 7th Tourism EXPO Japan Ministerial Roundtable on 26 September 2024 at Tokyo Big Sight. (Photo courtesy of Consul Alvin Malasig, Philippine Embassy)
