21 October 2023, Seoul. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) led by its Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita M. Nograles conducted the Philippine MICE (Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions and Exhibitions) Roadshow 2023 in the Republic of Korea from 09 to 19 October 2023. The roadshow spearheaded by the Department of Tourism kicked-off with a series of tourism promotion activities in Busan on 11 October 2023, in Yeosu on 13 October 2023, in Suwon on 17 October 2023, and the culminating event in Seoul on 18 October 2023.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Philippine MICE Roadshow 2023 in Seoul, Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega warmly welcomed Philippine industry partners, Korean travel trade partners, media representatives and Philippine government officials participating in the event. Ambassador Dizon-De Vega described the Philippines as a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people, which makes it an ideal choice for hosting events that leave a lasting impression. She said that "this roadshow is not solely about business and tourism, it is about strengthening the bridges of cultural understanding between our nations, nurturing relationships that go beyond business transactions, and creating lasting connections that promote collaboration, innovation and growth in the Philippine and international MICE industry."

TPB COO Nograles highlighted that the roadshow is the very first MICE-related event in Korea marking the Philippines' commitment to fostering a brighter future for Philippine tourism through the MICE industry, thereby placing the spotlight on the Philippines' great potential for economic development. She presented the Philippines as an ideal Bleisure Destination, a growing trend post-pandemic that combines business and leisure travel.

Traveling to the Philippines is convenient due to the short travel time and availability of flight options with numerous daily flights from major cities such as Seoul and Busan to major airports in the Philippines including Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Bohol International airports. Among the compelling reasons why travelers should consider the Philippines in planning a trip include the Filipino brand of service excellence, travel convenience, value for money destinations, favorable exchange rate, stunning nature, award-winning islands, and high-quality venues and first class hotel facilities for business activities.

As of 02 October 2023, the Philippines recorded a total of 1,068,915 Korean travelers who visited the Philippines. The Republic of Korea is the Philippines' number 1 source of visitor arrivals.

The Philippine Embassy in Seoul expressed its continued support to the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board on their initiatives to promote the Philippines' potential as a MICE destination. END