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Thursday, 4 December 2025

MIMAROPA Shines at the 16th Regional Travel Fair in Puerto Princesa City

16th Regional Travel Fair (RTF)
A Celebratory Showcase of MIMAROPA’s Tourism Power

The 16th Regional Travel Fair (RTF), held in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan from November 14–16, 2025, once again proved why MIMAROPA stands strong as one of the Philippines’ most vibrant and diverse tourism regions. Organised by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the event generated more than PHP 130.1 million in sales leads, reaffirming the fair’s vital role in strengthening domestic tourism and promoting the archipelago’s most captivating destinations.

Channelling the regional tagline “Your Destination of Choice,” the event showcased the beauty of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan through a dynamic blend of business meetings, tourism exhibitions and cultural presentations. With thousands of attendees and a strong lineup of industry representatives, the 16th RTF highlighted the extraordinary potential of MIMAROPA as a must-visit destination.

Strengthening Tourism Partnerships through B2B Engagement

The fair opened with highly productive business-to-business (B2B) sessions at the Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa on November 14. The sessions facilitated over 2,000 appointments between 52 accredited buyers and 67 sellers representing tour operators, travel agencies, accommodations and other key tourism providers. These meetings created valuable networking opportunities and cultivated strong links between industry players.

Tourism officials, including DOT Region XII Director Nelia Arina, DOT MIMAROPA Assistant Regional Director Gladys Quesea and TPB Domestic Promotions Acting Head Arnold Gonzales, supported the event, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing regional tourism. Exhibitors from MIMAROPA and other regions showcased their unique offerings and cultural identities, strengthening connections across the tourism sector.

The evening continued with the Groove in Blue welcome dinner, bringing together buyers, exhibitors and tourism stakeholders for an uplifting night of entertainment and camaraderie.

B2C Sessions Bring Travel Inspiration to the Public

A local artisan weaving Palawan’s vibrant
traditions by hand at the Binuatan Creations

The business-to-consumer (B2C) activities at Robinsons Palawan on November 15–16 attracted more than 4,000 enthusiastic visitors. Attendees explored exclusive travel deals, took part in travel bingo segments and enjoyed interactive presentations featuring the best of MIMAROPA and other participating regions.

The sessions were attended by notable public officials and tourism leaders, including DOT Undersecretary for Special Projects Ferdinand C. Jumapao and Palawan’s tourism and cultural heritage representatives. The event provided an exciting platform for travellers to discover new destinations and plan future trips while supporting local tourism businesses.

Immersive Familiarization Tours Highlight Palawan’s Natural and Cultural Treasures

Beyond the exhibition halls, the 16th RTF extended into an enriching series of familiarization tours across Puerto Princesa and San Vicente. Participants visited eco-tourism attractions such as Iwahig Penal Farm, Mitra’s Ranch and the colourful weaving community of Binuatan Creations. They also explored Baker’s Hill, a local favourite known for its scenic gardens and homemade delicacies.

The tour continued to the beaches and islands of San Vicente’s famed Port Barton area, where participants discovered pristine waters, vibrant marine life and postcard-worthy island scenery. These immersive experiences highlighted MIMAROPA’s commitment to sustainable tourism and authentic community engagement.

A Milestone Event with an Eye on the Future

The 16th Regional Travel Fair concluded with a ceremonial turnover to the next host region, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). This transition marked another milestone in TPB’s ongoing drive to strengthen nationwide tourism collaboration and create inclusive opportunities within the industry.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles emphasised the importance of the event in building a strong and united tourism sector. She highlighted how the RTF continues to inspire travellers, empower local communities and open new doors for growth in regional tourism.

Visit MIMAROPA: Your Destination of Choice

With its successful staging in Puerto Princesa City, the 16th RTF reaffirmed MIMAROPA’s position as a premier destination filled with natural wonders, cultural treasures and unforgettable experiences. From business partnerships to local discoveries, the event showcased the region’s ability to charm travellers and strengthen ties within the tourism community.

Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

Website: www.tpb.gov.ph
Visit MIMAROPA: www.visitphilippines.org

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