The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) closed the curtain on Travel Tour Expo (TTE) 2026 with another milestone: 120,000-strong Filipino visitors passing through the doors of the SMX Convention Center in just three days, more than 20 percent than the target of 100,000. From February 6 to 8, the Filipino spirit of adventure and discovery lifted an industry that accounts for 34 percent of the country’s employment of 16 million in hospitality, transportation, food, among others.

The numbers are striking. With the Department of Tourism’s ambition to employ 30 million by 2028, the TTE 2026 is indeed a giant leap forward as it brought together 350 exhibitors from across the globe, offering thousands of exclusive travel packages spanning six continents. But what truly set this year’s expo apart was the energy in every aisle—the conversations, the deals struck, the itineraries planned, and the dreams made tangible for over a hundred thousand Filipinos eager to see the world.

“The TTE 2026 was not merely a travel fair. It was a declaration that Filipino wanderlust is alive and thriving. And this is very helpful to the Philippine economy, ” said Jaison P. Yang, PTAA President.

The success of the Expo rippled far beyond the convention floor. Livelihoods were sustained across the full travel and tourism ecosystem—from travel agents and tour operators to airlines, hotels, and the thousands of workers whose futures are tied to a healthy, dynamic industry. At a time when the growth momentum of Philippine tourism demands both confidence and visibility, TTE 2026 delivered both in abundance, reinforcing investor and consumer trust in an industry that continues to outpace expectations.

Since 1993, PTAA has kept a standing promise: that every February, Filipinos will have a world-class platform to explore, discover, and travel smart. TTE 2026 honored that promise with its greatest chapter yet. The relationships deepened, the partnerships forged, and the momentum generated at this year’s expo now serve as the foundation for what comes next.

And what comes next is already taking shape. PTAA is looking ahead to the VisMin Travel Tour Expo in SMX Davao with the renewed  energy of an industry that has proven, once again, that it is resilient, innovative, and deeply committed to bringing the world closer to every Filipino.

“The lessons of TTE 2026—the partnerships, the innovations, the sheer scale of what a united private sector can accomplish—will fuel every step toward an even greater gathering next year,” declared Mariegel Tankiang-Manotok, PTAA TTE 2026 Chair of the Organizing Committee, as she expressed her profound gratitude to the Department of Tourism and Tourism Promotions Board as co-presentors, Bank of Philippine Islands as bank partner and Philippine Airlines, Kaban Hotel and Casino, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), PAGCOR, Duty Free Philippines, and Hotel 101 as sponsors.

The journey is just beginning for PTAA, its partners, and over a hundred thousand Filipinos who left the SMX with hearts full.

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The biggest travel and trade fair happening from July 11-13, 2025, the Travel Madness Expo (TME) offers the best travel deals and more exciting destinations, both local and international.

Travel Innovators Inc. President and 12th TME Chairperson Ma. Paz Alberto, as always, is making sure that no stones shall be unturned for this highly anticipated annual event.

“We are ready to provide you with the ultimate travel experience. Our exhibitors are working tirelessly to curate the best and most unforgettable trips for you to take. I invite you to dream big and make those travel plans a reality. Let this be the year that you cross off those destinations on your bucket list and create memories that will last a lifetime,” Alberto said.

So, whether you’re 20 or 80, experience adventures for your age and ability, from gentle walking tours through historical sites to luxurious cruises exploring exotic landscapes. The perspective gained through travel, the connections made with new cultures, and the personal growth experienced are timeless benefits that can enrich life at any stage. With TME, embrace the possibility that your greatest adventure is yet to come!

Several activities are lined up to spice up the event such as cultural performances, food tastings, and entertainment. Raffles and giveaways are also in-store for the lucky visitors of this event.

Happening from July 11-13, 2025, at Halls 1-4, ground floor, SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, TME is one of the most anticipated events in the travel industry for over a decade now, allowing one to experience new travel experiences while also looking forward to great value for your money. Since the event falls on a lean month, TME promises awesome airfares, package tours both local and international, outbound, and hotels and resorts at low rates. Participating agencies will offer a three-month extension for buy now, pay later packages.

TME believes that the “best” time to travel is whenever the opportunity arises, tailored to your personal preferences and what you hope to gain from the journey. Traveling in the off-season often means fewer crowds and lower prices, allowing for a more intimate and budget-friendly experience.

TME guarantees lowest airfare rates for your travel from July 2025 to July 2026; lowest package tours anywhere in the Philippines or anywhere in the world; lowest staycation packages; and travel insurance, and roaming devices and more all under one roof!

There would be exciting performances and entertainment throughout the three-day period for all participants. And the best deal for all! TME 2025 offers fly now, pay later for all BPI credit cardholders. BPI is TME 2025’s official bank and credit card partner.

TME is supported by local and national tourism organizations, travel authorities, and various stakeholders in the travel industry. It aims to surpass the 198 booth exhibitors last year representing 250 companies composed of airlines, travel agencies, tour operators, theme parks, hotels, resorts, accommodations, cruise lines, insurance companies, food concessionaires, shops, technology and technical services, bank and credit card company, local organization, educational institution/education assistance provider, local and national tourism offices, charitable organizations, and media partners.

Malaysia Airlines is the proud official partner of TME 2025, further elevating the event with exclusive travel offerings and premium experiences for travelers.

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group said, “As the Official Airline Partner of TME 2025, Malaysia Airlines is proud to connect travelers to the world through our signature Malaysian Hospitality. We are excited to be part of this travel fair that inspires people to explore new destinations and create unforgettable journeys. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, we look forward to welcoming you onboard and making your travel experience truly special through our Malaysian Hospitality.”

With Malaysia Airlines, international passengers traveling through Kuala Lumpur can also enjoy a complimentary domestic return flight to one of seven Malaysian destinations through the Bonus Side Trip (BST) Program. Fully integrated into the ticket fare, BST allows travelers to explore places like Langkawi, Penang, or Johor Baru before continuing their journey—turning every trip into multi-destination experience.

Philippine Airlines (PAL), the flag carrier of the Philippines, also joins this year’s TME as co-presenter. As part of its participation, PAL is showcasing exciting developments in its network, including the launch of new routes such as Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City, Manila-Da Nang, and Manila-Sapporo. Additionally, the airline is increasing the frequency of its Manila-Seattle service to five times weekly starting this November.

Justin Warby, Vice President for Sales and Distribution from PAL, said, “We are pleased to join this year’s event and encourage travelers to avail themselves of our special discounts. We look forward to serving more passengers and sharing with them the wonders of travel made possible through our collective efforts at the Travel Madness Expo 2025.”

There is also a dedicated Auto and Moto Zone during the event with units on special discounts, affordable installment plans, and extended payment terms from reputable vehicle dealers.

Trade buyers are also invited to B2B networking sessions allowing them to meet businesses and fellow professionals to gather and establish meaningful connections, and build mutually beneficial relationships.

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