Philippines to launch own B2B dive show

The Philippines

The Department of Tourism (DoT) will mount its first Philippine International Dive Show (PHIDEX) from September 20-22 as part of concerted efforts to position the country as a prime dive destination in the world.

This ends its partnership with China-based LX Development Group, which holds the franchise for the Diving and Resort Travel Expo (DRT Show) in Asia. The company had organised the DRT Show Philippines the past three years.

The Philippines embarks on its own dive show

PHIDEX will focus more on B2B, targeting an estimated 65 international buyers and 45 sellers. The programme includes a panel discussion on sustainable dive tourism, featuring at least 20 international experts, as well as an expo that is open to the public, said Rowena Sorioso, DoT head, Office of Product and Market Development for Dive.

Sorioso told TTGmice that DoT intends to invite more buyers from opportunity markets, mainly in Europe such as Scandinavia, France, Italy, Spain and Germany, as well as tap the established markets of the US, China, South Korea and Japan.

As the Philippines is part of the Coral Triangle, the most diverse underwater ecosystem in the world, PHIDEX will launch new dive sites in Ticao and Camiguin in addition to the well-known Anilao, Puerto Galera, Coron, Dumaguete, Malapascua, and Moalboal.

Also on offer will be 5D/4N post-tours and fam tours not just to top dive sites but also to actual diving services and facilities.

PHIDEX will be held at the Conrad Hotel and the adjacent SMX Convention Center Manila at the Mall of Asia.

DoT, as the lead organiser, is now inviting tenders for a PR and marketing partner.

Sponsored Post