The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 Opening Ceremony was successfully held on January 28, 2026, on the stunning island of Mactan, Cebu, Philippines, hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines. Set against the vibrant backdrop of one of the country’s premier island destinations, the event marked a festive and meaningful start to one of Southeast Asia’s most significant tourism gatherings.
The 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum officially commenced with a series of lively and colorful Filipino cultural performances, offering delegates a warm welcome and showcasing the Philippines’ rich heritage and artistry. The celebration was followed by a ceremonial walk-through of the exhibition hall, led by senior government officials and ASEAN representatives, formally opening ATF TRAVEX 2026, the region’s premier travel exchange platform.
The prestigious event was attended by distinguished guests, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina Garcia Codilla-Frasco, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cindy K. Chan, alongside ASEAN Tourism Ministers, representatives of National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), senior officials, TRAVEX exhibitors, international buyers, members of the media, and tourism stakeholders from across the region.
 |
| Tourism Secretary Frasco |
Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Tourism Secretary Frasco encouraged fellow ASEAN tourism leaders to maximize the forum as an opportunity for meaningful collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the exchange of best practices. She emphasized the importance of forging stronger commitments that will shape the future of tourism in Southeast Asia.
In the President’s message delivered during the ceremony, he highlighted one of the key outcomes of the forum: the development of the ASEAN Tourism Sector Plan 2026–2030. This strategic roadmap sets a unified direction for advancing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism across ASEAN member states, reinforcing the region’s shared vision for long-term growth.
Beyond the formal program, guests were treated to a delightful culinary showcase featuring must-try dishes from ASEAN nations, including Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. The evening offered an array of regional flavors, from traditional delicacies and desserts to refreshing local juices and specialty beverages, adding a flavorful touch to the celebration.
The night concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, leaving attendees with lasting impressions of unity, culture, and celebration. Overall, the ATF 2026 Opening Ceremony was a vibrant and successful start to the forum—an event that not only showcased Filipino hospitality but also reaffirmed ASEAN’s shared commitment to strengthening tourism cooperation across the region.
.jpg)
0 comments: