Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 8th April 2026
Page 137

Cebu’s airport offers corporate hospitality support to charm planners and delegates

0
Sinulog dancers welcoming overseas delegates at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport

Recognising that first and last impressions matter, Mactan-Cebu International Airport has developed a suite of services to support arriving and departing corporate groups, which will in turn earn the destination a higher satisfaction score and repeat visits.

Aines Librodo, head of external affairs, stakeholder management at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, told TTGmice that that the aviation facility has a role to play in shaping Cebu’s destination reputation among business event clients and attendees.

She was recently at IT&CM Asia 2024 to convey Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s readiness for business events.

Sinulog dancers welcoming overseas delegates at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport

She said: “Every travel and tourism player in Cebu, along with the national and local government, are working together to make Cebu a top-of-mind MICE destination in both the Philippines and Asia.”

The airport team works with DMCs, immigration, customs, security and quarantine officials to coordinate arrival procedures for an “efficient and expedient” welcome for corporate groups.

Necessary immigration information is shared with the DMC ahead of arrival, so that groups can be prepared even before their departure from their origin airport.

“On arrival, the airport provides welcome leis and a token. The Department of Tourism more often gets a rondalla (a traditional Philippine string ensemble) to play local and festive songs at the boarding bridge or the arrival lobby. For really large groups, the DMC hires Sinulog dancers to welcome their guests. Sinulog is a grand festival held every third Sunday of January, with beautiful dancers in their lavish gowns honouring the Holy Child Santo Nino,” detailed Librodo.

Librodo added that groups arriving and transiting at Mactan-Cebu International Airport can also enjoy Allways’ meet-and-assist services as well as Cebu Connect, launched in June to provide seamless transfer for passengers with onward flights to other destinations.

When asked which of these support services are most in favour among corporate groups, she pointed to the cultural welcome.

“Corporate groups love our welcome reception where we play local festive music while passengers are deplaning; they are met by beautiful ladies in our traditional costume, are adorned with leis, and are handed tokens of sweet mangoes, which Cebu is famous for. At the end of the day, nothing beats the human touch, the personal approach, and the friendly and welcoming smiles.”

Librodo also expressed pride in the airport’s resort-themed architecture and interior design, which represents the leisure vibes of Cebu.

“Upon arrival, passengers can feel that they are in a resort. The boarding bridges have a special welcoming scent that was exclusively created for the airport. We are also a silent airport – announcements are only allowed if it is a necessity, hence, the atmosphere is calm and relaxing,” she said.

Librodo believes that offering an outstanding welcome to Cebu – as well as a hospitable farewell – will encourage corporate travellers to return with friends and family.

“They have some degree of influence among their friends, communities, and peers. A good word from them will spread and have multiplier effects,” she stated.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport offers two terminals that are five minutes apart on foot, and is the second biggest airport in the Philippines. It operates round the clock, with retail and F&B outlets serving passengers all hours. It is used currently by six domestic and 18 foreign carriers, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, China Eastern, and more.

Tokyo’s unique venues add an experiential dimension to events

0
Maxell Aqua Park transports guests to an ethereal, underwater experience

Brought to you by Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa transports guests to an ethereal, underwater experience

Known for its blend of cultural traditions and modern innovation, the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo offers a dynamic environment for event organisers seeking memorable and impactful venues for business events. 

Whether it is for large-scale conferences or intimate gatherings, there are plenty of landmarks and institutions such as convention centers, hotels and banquet facilities in Tokyo for all types of events. 

But what about a place that lets attendees experience something different? 

For event planners who want to create memorable events that transport participants to another world, consider these unique venues that offer a different dimension of interactivity and immersion.

The National Art Center, Tokyo

The National Art Center, Tokyo houses one of Japan’s largest art exhibition spaces

The National Art Center, Tokyo, located in Roppongi, embodies the concept of an art centre surrounded by green spaces. Its southern facade showcases a beautiful, wave-like curved glass curtain wall that seamlessly merges with the conical main entrance, creating a fluid and harmonious design.

It features twelve exhibition galleries, an art library, an auditorium, and three lecture rooms, providing a flexible environment for a wide range of events. Additional facilities include a restaurant, cafe, and museum shop.

As the centre has no permanent collections, it provides one of Japan’s largest art exhibition spaces at 14,000m² where guests can explore a variety of artistic expressions and discover new perspectives. 

Event organisers can leverage several spaces here. The entrance hall, a spacious area, is available for private events such as product launches and receptions, exclusively on Tuesdays when the centre is closed. For seminars and meetings, the auditorium offers 260 seats, creating a professional atmosphere for larger gatherings, while lecture rooms accommodate 16 to 52 attendees.

SKY LAB

The rooftop SKY LAB is designed with spatial characteristics to give visitors a sense of being in an aerial courtyard-like space. (*Chairs were brought in for the purposes of the picture)

Nestled atop the Otemachi Building, the 4,000m² SKY LAB combines a refreshing oasis with modern amenities. Surrounded by Tokyo’s concrete skyscrapers, SKY LAB, which sits in a valley-like space, is designed with spatial characteristics to give visitors a sense of being in an aerial courtyard-like space. 

Just minutes from Tokyo Station, SKY LAB is easily accessible, making it ideal for business gatherings and networking sessions. 

The versatile space offers different types of seating options, from counter stools overlooking the bustling Marunouchi Naka-dori main street, to comfortable sofas with views of the Imperial Palace. Formal sit-down dinners, casual buffets or sleek cocktail receptions can all be arranged. The space holds up to 250 people standing. 

In the evenings, the surrounding area is lit up by Tokyo’s city lights, making SKY LAB a versatile choice for day or night events. 

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

Located within the Shinagawa Prince Hotel and just a two-minute walk from Shinagawa Station, Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa offers a one-of-a-kind venue that combines marine life with cutting-edge sound, lighting, and visual effects. 

This urban aquarium spans two floors and has a combined floor space of 5,510m², providing a unique setting for events that transport guests into an enchanting underwater world. The entire space can be rented out, allowing organisers to create an immersive atmosphere for parties, corporate gatherings, or themed events.

Host a formal dinner at the Jellyfish Rumble where guests dine amid mesmerising displays of floating jellyfish illuminated by synchronised lights and music. For a more dynamic setting, consider a standing buffet in the Wonder Tube — an underwater tunnel where natural light filters through, surrounded by stingrays. Alternatively, the Coral Cafe Bar, featuring tanks of glowing coral, is perfect for cocktail receptions that give a luminous under-the-sea-like otherworldly experience.

IMAGINUS

The nostalgia of school days abounds in the creatively used IMAGINUS, now an edutainment venue

IMAGINUS, a creative venue located in Suginami City, is a six-minute walk from Koenji station. It breathes new life into an abandoned school by transforming it into a brand new experience facility to learn science in an enjoyable format. The entire repurposed building provides visitors with the unique opportunity to experience the school facilities in a different country and appreciate how an old building is reused. It can be utilised to host distinctive events, allowing guests to experience the charm of a bygone era while engaging with science in innovative ways.

IMAGINUS provides various adaptable spaces for different event styles. The spacious 762m² Arena is perfect for a formal dining experience, offering an open layout that can accommodate large groups, as well as for recreational activities and sports. For more interactive gatherings, the Experimental Lab, which retains the authentic look of a traditional science room, and the Science in Me lab, filled with intriguing gadgets, offer engaging environments where guests can explore the wonders of science.

Create new experiences in Tokyo

For event organisers looking for the next venue to excite and captivate their attendees, Tokyo provides a variety of interesting unique venues to choose from. They can also expect outstanding service from the Tokyo Unique Venues one-stop-shop support desk when choosing a venue and planning their events.

To find out more, visit Tokyo Unique Venues.

Why Aichi is the ideal destination for global conventions and events

0
Aichi Sky Expo boasts one of the largest exhibition areas in Japan with six halls, 18 conference rooms, and huge outdoor space

Brought to you by Aichi Sky Expo

Situated in the heart of Japan, the Aichi prefecture has emerged as a premier destination for global conventions and events. In July, it was chosen to host Tourism Expo Japan in 2025, one of the world’s largest travel festivals.

While it may be commonly known for its capital city of Nagoya, there’s more in its surrounding cities that offer the infrastructure, facilities and environment for all types of events.

World-class convention and exhibition facilities

Aichi Sky Expo boasts one of the largest exhibition areas in Japan with six halls, 18 conference rooms, and huge outdoor space

A venue that cannot be overlooked is the Aichi Sky Expo. Directly connected to the Chubu Centrair International Airport, it offers unparalleled access for delegates flying in from all over the world, as well as onward travel to other parts of Japan. 

With a size of 60,000m², Aichi Sky Expo boasts one of the largest exhibition areas in the country. It houses six expansive halls, 20m high, which can be connected to form a massive space of up to 50,000m². There are also 18 conference rooms of various sizes with up to 370 seats. Outside, there is also up to 36,000m² of space for open air events and activities. 

Since it opened in 2019, Aichi Sky Expo is a sought-after venue that has hosted more than 450 events. Its roster includes events such as The Independent Ageing Convention, organised by Kenes Group, which specialises in medical and scientific events, and the 124th Annual Congress of Japan Surgical Society. 

A congress organised by the Japan Surgical Society

Sustainability at its core

Central to Aichi Sky Expos’s operations is sustainability. The venue runs completely on solar powered clean energy and uses cleaning agents free from ocean polluting chemicals. In addition, a tree-supporting wall greening system called the Vertical Forest is installed at the entrance. 

Its efforts are recognised in its Net Zero Energy Building Ready certification, which is given to buildings that reduce annual primary energy consumption by 50 per cent or more.

It is also the first exhibition centre in Japan certified S, the highest rank under the CASBEE (Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency) system for energy and resource efficiency, as well as consideration of indoor and outdoor environments. 

Industrial powerhouse 

Beyond the expo, the Aichi region itself is an industrial powerhouse. In fact, Aichi prefecture is the heart of manufacturing in Japan, with the automotive, aerospace and robotics industries its three biggest. 

It is home to leading manufacturing companies such as Toyota, Denso, DMG MORI, and Mazak. Almost half of all automobile-related parts in Japan are produced in Aichi, which represent about US$170 billion dollars.

The Japanese government has also designated the Chubu region as an International Strategic Special Zone, named the “Special Zone to Create Asia’s No.1 Aerospace Industrial Cluster”. Today, 171 aerospace companies are located in the prefecture, and Aeromart, a leading aerospace event, is held every year in Nagoya. 

The robotics industry is equally strong, with around 77 companies and 3,400 employees in the industry. The government has particularly focused on advancing manufacturing robots, medical robots, and unmanned flying robots. Aichi Prefecture also actively hosts prominent robotics events, such as the RoboCup Asia-Pacific 2021, a worldwide robotics competition held at Aichi Sky Expo.

Another emerging sector is hydrogen. The Chubu region, which includes Aichi, is promoting a hydrogen society. Efforts include the founding of the Hydrogen Utilization Council in 2020 with the aim of commercialising hydrogen energy by 2030. 

Given that the Chubu region is a hub for various industries, there is a strong emphasis on using hydrogen for industrial applications, such as refining petroleum, metal treatment, electricity generation, and logistics. Additionally, Aichi is a leader in fuel cell technology, particularly fuel cell vehicles, and Japan aims to export this technology globally.

Beyond modern industries, the history of manufacturing in Aichi goes back more than 400 years. 

Traditional manufacturing industries such as pottery are still very active, particularly in Tokoname city, famous for its pottery and also where Aichi Sky Expo is located. Tokoname ware is recognised as one of the six ancient kilns in Japan, and has been certified as an official Japanese Heritage site since 2017. 

Adding value to itineraries

The city of Tokoname is renowned for its pottery and is recognised as one of the six ancient kilns in Japan

With the Aichi prefecture’s rich heritage and manufacturing prowess, organisers that want to create more interesting itineraries can include technical visits to see the latest product lines as part of a post-convention programme.

In the old town of Tokoname, besides Tokoname ware, there are also traditional houses and the Ghibli Park for sightseeing. 

Aichi prefecture continues to develop its tourism offerings as well. During Field Style Jamboree, one of the largest outdoor events in Japan, which was held from 10th to 12th November, Aichi Sky Expo and Tokoname City organised a sightseeing programme for foreign exhibitors and visitors.

Keen to explore what Aichi has to offer? Host your next event at Aichi Sky Expo.

TTGmice breaks for the Festival of Lights

0

In celebration of Deepavali, TTGmice will be taking a break on October 31, 2024.

News will resume on November 5, 2024. Here’s wishing all our Hindu readers a Happy Deepavali!

Auckland secures Computing in Cardiology Conference for 2027

0
The conference will take place in Auckland (pictured) in September, an off-peak month for the city

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has secured the Computing in Cardiology (CinC) scientific conference for September 27, 2027.

This marks the first time the conference will be held in Australasia and only the third time in the Asia-Pacific in its 50-year history.

The conference will take place in Auckland (pictured) in September, an off-peak month for the city

To be held at the University of Auckland’s Owen G Glen Building, the event is expected to attract around 350 delegates and generate an estimated economic impact of NZ$925,000 (US$552,300) for the city.

The bid was led by associate professor Jichao Zhao from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute at the University of Auckland, with support from Auckland Convention Bureau, which is a division of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.

CinC focuses on computing in clinical cardiology and cardiovascular physiology to improve understanding, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. It also provides a forum for cutting-edge developments at the intersection of clinical practice, cardiac electrophysiology and physiology, engineering, and fundamental research, including the growing role of artificial intelligence in diagnostic support.

Four groups at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute are currently working on cardiac research directly relevant to CinC – cardiac electrophysiology, heart mechanics, cardiac instrumentation, and the Physiome Project.

Zhao added: “This conference plays an important role in nurturing young researchers, post doctorate students and Masters students. They’ll be learning through attending plenary talks and networking functions but will also have the opportunity to present at poster sessions and get guidance from senior researchers.”

Auckland is also home to a core of heart research knowledge including the NZ Centre of Research Excellence, Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand – Pūtahi Manawa, which discovers and develops new early diagnostic treatments and strategies to improve heart health inequity; and the National Heart Foundation of NZ, a heart charity that funds cutting-edge research.

Rick Aylett takes the helm at Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

0

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET) has appointed Rick Aylett as the general manager of the upcoming Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.

This appointment follows Aylett’s’s successful tenure as project director for Nyaal Banyul since 2022, where he has played a pivotal role in the venue’s design and development.

Aylett brings more than 30 years of extensive experience in senior leadership and operations management to this role. His career highlights include five years as head of operations at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where he honed his expertise in managing large-scale events and operations.

Aylett has successfully led the strategic development and operational delivery of over 60 major international events, including the Commonwealth Games in India, and the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Tokyo to host World Congress of Philosophy 2028

0
Tokyo (pictured) wins bid for World Congress of Philosophy 2028

The Japan Federation of Philosophical Societies (JFPS) has revealed that the World Congress of Philosophy 2028 (WCP 2028) will be held in Tokyo.

Expected to draw over 4,000 participants – 3,500 of whom are from overseas – the event will take place at the University of Tokyo over eight days.

Tokyo (pictured) wins bid for World Congress of Philosophy 2028

The World Congress of Philosophy, a significant global gathering for philosophers, has been held every five years since 1900. Tokyo’s successful bid reflects the city’s growing reputation as a hub for intellectual exchange and its strong commitment to promoting philosophical discourse.

The JFPS’s compelling bid proposal, themed The Thinkers’ Choice, highlighted Japan’s rich philosophical tradition, its active network of research associations, and the unique advantages of hosting international conferences in Tokyo.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau provided financial and in-kind support, further bolstering Tokyo’s bid.

Meetings industry strides towards a more inclusive future

0
Speakers on the Challenging the Status Quo 2.0: New Thinking Around Complete Event Accessibility session; photo by Caroline Boey

There is a real need to drive access in business events, raise awareness, challenge assumptions, and not be afraid to ask questions to make the industry more inclusive.

These comments were made during the session Challenging the Status Quo 2.0: New Thinking Around Complete Event Accessibility, where Melissa Riley, senior vice president, conventions sales and services, Washington DC Convention and Tourism Corporation shared her own recent experience as a wheelchair air passenger.

Speakers on the Challenging the Status Quo 2.0: New Thinking Around Complete Event Accessibility session; photo by Caroline Boey

The industry needs to ask questions to be thorough in providing the requisite services, she noted. She also emphasised the need to start on the journey and not strive for perfection.

Moderator Alistair Turner, managing director, Ei8ht PR and Marketing, said ICCA was on an accessibility learning curve, but there is optimism.

Compared to a year ago, Duaa Abdel Rahman, accessibility specialist, Zayed Higher Organization for People with Determination, who is visually impaired, said there have now been “positive experiences”. She cited examples of “audio description headsets” and audio-navigational systems.

However, progress is slow and challenges remain, so there is a need to raise awareness and implement solutions, she added.

Meanwhile, Chaica Al Qassimi, UAE ambassador, Down Syndrome International, welcomed the country’s signing of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Lizzy Eaton, director, Oddity Events and Marketing, who began looking into the accessibility question six years ago, said event professionals must be brave to acknowledge that “they do not know all the answers”.

She said the UK will adopt the European Accessibility Act 2025, which focuses on neurological disabilities and how programmes, services, and general experiences have to be designed. This will help the industry better understand the legalities and to embark on more necessary initiatives.

Duaa added that Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism had introduced an accessibility manual, creating a standard for venues and events.

Stronger favour for events that minimise environmental impact and maximise positive change

0

The global events industry is gradually moving beyond traditional sustainability practices towards a more regenerative approach, where events minimise their negative impact on the environment while actively contributing to the restoration and revitalisation of ecosystems.

This shift was addressed by two industry leaders from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) during an ICCA Congress 2024 session last week.

From left: GDS-Movement’s Bella Shahsuvaryan and Guy Bigwood; photo by Rachel AJ Lee

Bella Shahsuvaryan, changemaker, GDS-Movement, used Coldplay concerts as an example of regenerative events. She related how the band paused touring in 2019 until it found a way to make its concerts more sustainable. On its website, Coldplay lists its regenerative efforts that are part of its Music of the Spheres World Tour, ranging from planting trees per concert goer, to providing power bikes and kinetic dance floors to power the band’s performance every night.

“Such regenerative events are about more than just sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. They’re about creating a positive impact on both the environment and local communities,” Shahsuvaryan pointed out.

Guy Bigwood, CEO and chief changemaker, GDS-Movement, added: “We’ve seen a growing demand for regenerative events, where people are looking for events that minimise their environmental impact and contribute to positive change through legacy.”

Characteristics of regenerative events include prioritising the well-being of local communities and contributing to social development through job creation, skills training, and charitable initiatives; ensuring that all products and services used in the event are sourced ethically and sustainably; and adopting practices that minimise waste and promote resource reuse, reducing the event’s overall environmental footprint.

“By embracing regenerative principles, event organisers can not only minimise their environmental impact but also contribute to the restoration of our planet and the well-being of future generations,” commented Shahsuvaryan.

ICCA, GBTA chip in knowledge content for Arabian Travel Market

0

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has entered a strategic partnership with ICCA and GBTA to have the latter two step in as knowledge partners to provide in-depth insights and opportunities for the business events and travel sectors.

This collaboration will benefit ATM 2025, set for Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1.

From left: ATM’s Danielle Curtis, ICCA’s Senthil Gopinath; and GBTA’s Catherine Logan

During ATM 2025, ICCA will deliver seminars covering a range of topics for the business events industry, while GBTA will outline the prevailing trends in the business travel sector. These seminars will give the industry valuable insights into recent research, innovations, and best practices.

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director of ATM, said: “All of the latest research suggests that the business events and business travel sectors are going from strength to strength. These sectors have always been important verticals at ATM, and the official partnership with ICCA and GBTA for the 2025 edition will take our offering to the next level. By collaborating with these respected industry leaders, ATM aims to deliver even more value and innovation to its attendees and exhibitors.”

Reviews

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok

The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok anchors the One Bangkok development with cosmopolitan elegance. Featuring the city's largest ballroom and a spectacular new penthouse suite, it delivers exceptional hardware and deeply authentic, soulful service for business and leisure travellers alike

Mama Shelter Zurich

Behind the imposing, Brutalist concrete that defines Zurich’s Oerlikon district lies a surprising secret. While its exterior honours the neighbourhood’s industrial roots, stepping inside Mama Shelter reveals a vibrant, neon-soaked world that is a far cry from its rigid shell

Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown

A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.