The 16th Regional Travel Fair, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, was successfully held in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, from November 14-16, 2025, generating more than PHP 130.1 million in sales leads.
Channeling the tagline of the host region – MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan), “Your Destination of Choice”, the 16th RTF showcased the natural beauty and diversity of Region IV-B through a dynamic program that combined business engagement and tourism exhibitions.
“Since 2018, the RTF has been a driving force in promoting domestic tourism. Each edition creates opportunities for meaningful partnerships within the tourism sector, while also inspiring travelers to explore more of our country,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “Here in Puerto Princesa, we continue that mission through experiences designed to spark new partnerships, inspire travelers, and uplift local livelihoods. It’s about building a future for tourism that is inclusive and full of opportunities.”
Sellers, together with DOT Undersecretary Jumapao, during the B2C Opening of the 16th Regional Travel Fair
The business-to-business (B2B) sessions on November 14, held at the Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa, facilitated over 2,000 business appointments between 52 accredited buyers and 67 sellers representing travel providers, tour operators, and other tourism stakeholders. The sessions provided a platform for forging partnerships among key players in the tourism industry.
Present in the event are Department of Tourism (DOT) Region XII Director Nelia Arina, DOT MIMAROPA Assistant Regional Director Gladys Quesea, Palawan Tourism Council President Rix Rafols, TPB Domestic Promotions Department Acting Head Arnold Gonzales, among others.
Tourism representatives from MIMAROPA and other regions actively participated through presentations that highlighted their distinct attractions and cultural identities.
Buyers and exhibitors engaged in meaningful conversations during the B2B sessions
Invited buyers, exhibitors, and tourism stakeholders also attended the Groove in Blue welcome dinner, an evening of entertainment participated in by the members.
The business-to-consumer (B2C) sessions held at Robinsons Palawan, on November 15-16, 2025, drew more than 4,000 visitors who explored exclusive travel deals, participated in travel bingo segments, and engaged with interactive tourism presentations showcasing the best attractions of MIMAROPA and other participating regions.
Visitors lining up in booths during the B2C session of the 16th Regional Travel Fair in Robinsons Place Palawan
The event was graced by DOT Undersecretary for Special Projects Ferdinand C. Jumapao, Puerto Princesa City Councilor Patrick Hagedorn, Palawan Provincial Committee on Cultural Heritage and Tourism Development Chairperson Roseller Pineda, and TPB Philippines Domestic Promotions–Sales Division Chief Cesar R. Villanueva.
Beyond the fair, the RTF also featured familiarization tours around Puerto Princesa City, which immersed participants in eco-tourism attractions and sustainable community enterprises, such as the Iwahig Penal Farm, Mitra’s Ranch, Binuatuan Creations, and Baker’s Hill. The tour also extended to San Vicente, Palawan, wherein the participants enjoyed the beautiful beaches and magnificent islands of Port Barton.
A local artisan weaving Palawan’s vibrant traditions by hand at the Binuatan Creations
The event concluded with a turnover ceremony to the next host of the RTF – the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). This marks another milestone in TPB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen tourism collaborations nationwide.
Maxima and Exotic Islands that can be visited during the Port Barton Island Hopping in San Vicente, Palawan
With the success of the 16th Regional Travel Fair, TPB remains committed to building strong partnerships and supporting the Department of Tourism’s goal of expanding tourism opportunities nationwide.
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ABOUT TPB
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines aims to market and promote the Philippines domestically and internationally as a world-class tourism and MICE destination. As an attached agency of the Philippine Department of Tourism, TPB develops strategic partnerships with private and public stakeholders to deliver unique high-value experiences for visitors, significantly contributing to increased arrivals, receipts, and investments in the country. For more information, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph.
Reference:
Atty. Kristina M. de Guzman
Head
Media Relations and Communications Division
[email protected]
