With a drive to market itself as an inimitable destination, Philippines Tourism Marketing Office, India held its annual sales mission on December 7 and 9, 2011 at Le Meridien, Delhi and Four Seasons, Mumbai respectively. Powering the initiative in Delhi was H.E. Ronald B. Allarey, Philippine Ambassador to India. Also present in both the cities were Raymund Glen A. Agustin, Head, Team India along with Luisa A. Llave, Tourism Operations Officer II, Department of Tourism, Philippines.

Today India has emerged as a major 365-day source market presenting huge opportunities for any destination’s marketing and hosting a second sales mission was almost inevitable.

The event saw partners from the private sector too. The list of participants included:

1. Diamond Hotel Philippines
2. Golden sky Travels and Tours Corp.
3. Intas Destination Management Inc.
4. Resorts World Manila
5. Select Travel Services
6. Shroff Travel Care International
7. The Peninsula Manila

In addition, there was also a presentation given to the trade fraternity updating their knowledge about the destination, followed by one--one interaction between Indian and Philippines’ partners.

During the presentations, Philippines Tourism highlighted their plans to promote ‘Davao’ as an upcoming adventure and leisure destination par excellence.

Based on the promotional activities conducted with trade and media, Philippines has marked itself as an upcoming destination in the travellers mind. From organising regular fam trips for tour operators to joint marketing program and creating awareness of the amazing aspects of the destination, Philippines Tourism Marketing Office, supports its trade partners to sell Philippines better.

As a result, the growth figures for Indian arrivals stands at a remarkable 95% in September, 2011 vis-à-vis 2010. Also, a notable growth of 58% has been recorded for the period ending January-September, 2011 over the same period in 2010.

Philippines, being a great place to escape the hordes, has always rewarded those who go to that extra distance to reach it. This country is a place of natural wonders – a string of coral-fringed islands strewn across a vast expanse of the Western Pacific. Below sea level, the Philippines boasts some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling locations while above, it has a fantastic landscape with wonders enough to stagger even the most jaded traveller. Importantly it’s the people and their culture that makes Philippines the unique place it is.