Photo credit: Tourism Promotion Board Philippines
ATF TRAVEX 2026 Closes in Cebu with Robust Trade Results and Renewed ASEAN Push | CEBU CITY, Philippines – 3 March 2026 – The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) TRAVEX 2026 concluded in Cebu on a high note, generating more than 9,500 pre-scheduled business appointments and reinforcing confidence in Southeast Asia’s tourism resurgence.
Held over three days, the region’s premier travel trade exchange featured 261 exhibition booths representing nine ASEAN member states and drew more than 1,000 delegates to the show floor. The event welcomed 270 international buyers from 50 countries and territories and around 70 media representatives from 25 countries, underscoring TRAVEX’s role as a vital marketplace connecting ASEAN destinations with global travel partners.
Strong Industry Engagement and Regional Collaboration
Delegates participated in pre-arranged business meetings, National Tourism Organisation briefings, and special programme sessions spotlighting new tourism products, infrastructure developments, and strategic initiatives across ASEAN. Discussions centered on improving regional connectivity, strengthening destination competitiveness, and positioning ASEAN as a diverse, multi-country travel hub.
Organizers emphasized the forum’s alignment with ASEAN’s broader push for digital innovation, sustainability, and community-based tourism, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusive growth and long-term resilience.
High-Level Opening in Cebu
The opening ceremony was led by Philippine Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, joined by Indonesia’s Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, ASEAN Tourism Association President Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Maria Cynthia King Chan, Congressman Junard Quirante Chan, and other ASEAN representatives.
Delegates were later hosted at the historic Mactan Shrine, where cultural performances, local cuisine, and a fireworks display showcased Cebu’s strength as both a leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.
Passing the Torch to Singapore
Regional camaraderie continued with an evening reception hosted by the Singapore Tourism Board, formally welcoming delegates to Singapore as the next host of ATF TRAVEX 2027.
The final day coincided with the ASEAN Tourism Awards, honoring excellence across multiple categories among member states, before culminating in a closing dinner that marked the end of a week of business exchange and regional celebration.
A Platform for ASEAN’s Tourism Future
With robust buyer participation, strong exhibitor engagement, and a clear focus on sustainability and innovation, ATF TRAVEX 2026 reaffirmed its standing as ASEAN’s leading tourism trade platform.
Anchored on the theme “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together,” the forum concluded with renewed optimism and a collaborative outlook as ASEAN charts its next phase of tourism growth.
For updates and information, visit www.atfphilippines.com
