DOT Chief Takes Center Stage with Global Tourism Leaders at WTM Ministers’ Summit 2024 in London!
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November 21, 2024
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The World Travel Market (WTM) Ministers’ Summit, held annually in London, is a critical event for leaders in the global tourism sector. It serves as a platform for discussing key challenges and opportunities that shape the industry’s future. This year, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Chief is set to take center stage, emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to boosting sustainable tourism initiatives globally.
The DOT Chief’s involvement at the summit highlights the Philippines’ dedication to revitalizing tourism post-pandemic while prioritizing sustainability. With new strategies, the DOT aims to position the country as a premier eco-tourism destination. Here are the key messages the DOT Chief is expected to convey:
The DOT Chief will advocate for the integration of sustainable practices in tourism operations, encouraging local governments and businesses to adopt environmentally friendly methods. This includes:
With a shift towards a more digital landscape, the DOT Chief will underline the importance of technology in enhancing tourist experiences and streamlining operations:
The recent global challenges have shown the necessity for resilience in the tourism industry. The Chief will discuss actionable plans to prepare for future disruptions:
The WTM Ministers’ Summit is not just about discussions; it’s also a significant networking platform. Attendees can expect to:
For professionals in the tourism industry, attending the WTM Ministers’ Summit offers numerous benefits:
“Participating in the WTM Ministers’ Summit was transformative for our strategies at the DOT. The insights on digital transformation and sustainability allowed us
London, United Kingdom — On November 6, esteemed Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) was invited to attend the renowned World Travel Market (WTM) Ministers’ Summit under the theme “Harnessing AI for Sustainable Tourism: Exploring Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies.” This significant event took place during WTM 2024 London, which ran from November 5 to 7 and was collaboratively organized by UN Tourism (formerly known as UNWTO), the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and WTM.
The summit’s second day featured a high-level dialogue focused on how emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence are transforming global tourism. Key topics included enhancing sustainability practices, improving visitor experiences, optimizing operational efficiency, creating job opportunities, and nurturing inclusive growth across the industry.
During her speech, Secretary Frasco illuminated the Philippines’ strategic engagement with AI technology to promote sustainable tourism initiatives under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration. “In our nation,” she emphasized, “we established our National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) back in 2021 — one of only 50 nations worldwide to do so. In line with this vision, our President highlighted in 2022 that inclusivity in technology is paramount for progress.” As part of this ongoing commitment, Roadmap 2.0 was unveiled in 2024 focusing on establishing a Center for AI Research and Development dedicated to areas such as sustainable agriculture practices, disaster resilience mechanisms, and urban planning — all crucial components influencing tourism success in the Philippines.
Aligning with these objectives set forth at a national level, DOT has also incorporated advanced technological standards into its National Accreditation System aimed at accommodation providers. Secretary Frasco remarked on the receptive attitude from private sector stakeholders who have embraced various AI-driven solutions including virtual assistants in hospitality management and innovative waste reduction systems.
Under her guidance, DOT has made remarkable strides toward digital transformation by launching programs like mobile app-based Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours equipped with GPS tracking features alongside enhancing support systems through initiatives like a Tourist Assistance Call Center and an integrated Travel Philippines application that collectively aim to refine travel experiences.
While advancing technologically is essential for growth adaptability within Philippine tourism; Secretary Frasco noted it remains critical not to overlook personal interaction throughout visitor engagements. “Human connection is vital,” she continued. “Tourism employs approximately between six million and nine million individuals according to WTTC statistics – clearly making it not only a cornerstone economic driver contributing over eight percent toward GDP but also embodying Filipino hospitality renowned globally as an irreplaceable asset,” she asserted.
The Minister led an engaging Philippine delegation alongside representatives from The Department of Tourism’s Promotions Board during this noteworthy international gathering reflecting significant developments within global travel trade markets.
“It is indeed an honor leading our delegation here today; we aim through our presence—specifically through showcasing at The Philippine Pavilion—to share authentic narratives about our vibrant culture,” stated Secretary Frasco during her remarks upon opening their pavilion exhibit highlighting elements rooted deeply within Filipino traditions formed across generations yet celebrated uniquely depending on rich regional diversities throughout islands.” She reaffirmed plans include drawing visitors looking beyond just eco-tourism choices presented normally concerning picturesque landscapes or pristine beaches but also engaging culturally enriched packages offered along festival celebrations various genres including culinary arts combined health-oriented adventures found throughout Luzon Visayas Mindanao regions among others.”
The secretary took this platform occasion further thanking fellow officials present expressing their commitment towards bolstering both contribution economy while supporting employment opportunities generated millennia-long livelihoods reliant heavily sectors impacted fondly by daily tourists visiting country spans wonders alluring countless individuals every year eagerly come exploring cultural heritage ongoing since prehistoric eras until now influencing perspectives all around world today!
A host a representation from government officials representing various sectors attended: H.E Teodoro Locsin Jr., Ambassador UK; Deputy Consul General Rhenita Rodriguez; notable congressman Duke frasco keystone district leader batuling_mapping governorship touristic prospects while ensuring remains protected well-managed sustainably promoting local livelihoods enriched positively impacting communities involved sustainably fostering progressive economic outcomes needed achieve balance harmony nature preservation coexist thoughtfully without diminishing future generations’ prospects potentially enjoyed benefits derived care restoration environments maintained ecosystems!
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