The Philippine delegation in Busan, led by Dr. Erwin Balane, Tourism Attaché of the Philippine Department of Tourism in Korea, and Micka Anjella Calzado, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines International Promotions Department – North Asia Division Acting Head
A total of 204 Korean travel agents and corporate buyers across the three cities engaged with the Philippine delegation, composed of 40 seller companies. The TPB-led contingent included the country’s top hotels, resorts, tour operators, destination management companies, airlines, and government agencies. A total of 792 business meetings were facilitated during the mission.In addition, the Philippine Department of Tourism in Korea, along with Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines, presented tourism product updates and route developments during the Philippine Seminar in each city, providing Korean partners with timely insights into enhanced connectivity and travel options.
Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Her Excellency Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez at the PBM leg in Seoul
Tabletop meetings between Philippine sellers and Korean buyers
At the Busan and Daejeon stops, TPB North Asia Acting Division Head Anjella Calzado emphasized TPB’s direction for the Korean market, noting that the mission “reaffirms our commitment to expand market reach and deliver concrete actions by elevating the experience of Korean visitors.” She highlighted TPB’s strengthened focus on connectivity, safety, and immersive travel experiences.
Since 2012, South Korea has consistently ranked as the Philippines’ top inbound tourism market. In 2024, arrivals from Korea reached 1.76 million, underscoring the market’s enduring strength and its critical role in the country’s tourism recovery. The revival of PBM Korea reflects ongoing efforts to renew industry partnerships and strengthen market collaboration moving forward.
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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]








