Tourism Industry Board Foundation Inc.

15/02/2026

TIBFI Supports the 33rd PTAA TravelTour Expo 2026

The Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI) Board and Members proudly supported and attended the 33rd Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) TravelTour Expo 2026, held on February 6–8, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

As one of the country’s premier travel trade events, the expo featured more than 800 booths offering exclusive discounted airfares, travel packages, and tour options from both local and international exhibitors, bringing together key players in the tourism and travel industry under one roof.

During the three-day event, TIBFI Board members also showcased their respective company features, services, and tourism-related advocacies, further strengthening industry collaboration and promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the PTAA Board and the organizing committee for mounting a highly successful and well-attended TravelTour Expo 2026.

Photo credits: Jojo M. Villamin Patrick-Lawrence Tan Divine Delos Reyes

15/02/2026

12/02/2026

Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc (TIBFI) Supports the TESDA Skills Passport

TIBFI proudly attended the official launch of the TESDA Skills Passport on February 5 at the Makabagong San Juan Theatre, represented by Dr. Ma. Christina G. Aquino and Dr. Beth Aragon.

Graced by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the event underscored the vital role of education, skills training, and technology in expanding opportunities for Filipinos. TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez emphasized that the Skills Passport is more than a digital platform—it is a system that makes skills visible, verifiable, and valuable, directly connecting training to employment.

The TESDA Skills Passport reflects the country’s commitment to digital transformation under the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

TIBFI fully supports this initiative and remains committed to advancing accessible, technology-driven skills development that empowers Filipinos and strengthens the nation’s workforce. We look forward to continued collaboration in building clear pathways from learning to livelihood.

Download the app:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tesda.bestapp

10/02/2026

𝗔𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗡 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺, 𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵

The Philippines pushed for deeper regional collaboration in tourism during the 63rd ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) Meeting in Cebu City on Monday (Jan. 26), as discussions emphasized the need for ASEAN Member States “to move forward not as competing destinations but as a unified region” ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF).

Chaired by Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso as Head of the Philippine NTO, and Singapore as incoming chair, the high-level meeting gathered senior tourism officials across Southeast Asia, international dialogue partners, and organizations to lay out long-term plans for the region’s tourism sector.

“We are reminded that the future of tourism in our region will not be shaped by any one country alone,” Usec. Buensuceso said in her opening remarks on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

“It will be shaped by how well we align our strategies, our standards, our innovations, and most importantly, our resolve to ensure that tourism remains a force for good,” she continued.

Guided by this year’s theme, “Navigating our Future, Together,” the 63rd NTOs meeting is officially part of the week-long series of high-level meetings, consultations, working group sessions, and discussions central to ASEAN tourism cooperation.

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀

Speaking before heads of national tourism organizations, DOT Undersecretary Buensuceso also emphasized that the regional meetings over the week must deliver tangible policies and benefits for tourism stakeholders.

“As we exchange best practices and strengthen cooperation, may our discussions lead to outcomes that are concrete and forward-looking. Outcomes that support sustainability without sacrificing growth, that accelerate digital transformation while protecting trust and safety, and that keep communities at the heart of the tourism economy so that the benefits of travel are felt not only in arrivals but in myriad opportunities,” Buensuceso said.

“What we decide and coordinate in meetings like this translates into the visitor journey, the competitiveness of our destinations, the resilience of our enterprises, and the livelihoods of our communities,” she continued.

Held in Cebu, this year’s ASEAN Tourism events mark another milestone turning point with the introduction of Timor Leste as the 11th member state of the regional association. It was in the province where the ASEAN Cooperation in Tourism was signed in 1998.

“With sincere joy, we welcome Timor-Leste as the 11th Member State of ASEAN. Your presence enriches our regional community and reminds us that ASEAN’s strength has always come from widening the circle, grounded in trust, friendship, and a shared commitment to progress.”

In the coming days, key officials across Southeast Asia and the world will also convene for more decisive and high-level meetings, including the 48th ASEAN Plus Three NTOs Meeting; 16th Meeting of ASEAN Plus Three NTOs; ASEAN-Australia Inaugural Dialogue for Tourism; 34th ASEAN–India Tourism Working Group Meeting; ASEAN Tourism Forum; ASEAN Tourism Conference; 29th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers; 25th Meeting of ASEAN, China, Japan, and Republic of Korea Tourism Ministers (25th M-ATM+3); 13th Meeting of ASEAN – India Tourism Ministers (13th M-ATM Plus India); and the Fifth Meeting of ASEAN - Russian Federation Tourism Ministers, among others.

These events underscore ASEAN’s collective commitment to developing a globally competitive tourism industry that benefits local communities while advancing Southeast Asia’s vision as a sustainable and premier tourism destination.

The ATF 2026 is slated to formally commence in a ceremony on Wednesday (Jan. 28) at the Nustar Convention Center.

08/02/2026

TIBFI Actively Participated in ASEAN Tourism Conference 2026 Under Philippine's Chairmanship

The Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI), led by its Board of Trustees and member organizations, actively participated in the ASEAN Tourism Conference 2026 held last January 29, 2026, at NUSTAR Cebu City, as part of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026.

Representing TIBFI and allied tourism organizations under its leadership, the delegation engaged in high-level discussions focused on regional tourism cooperation, sustainable development, and strengthening ASEAN’s integrated tourism framework.

TIBFI’s participation underscores its continued commitment to supporting national and regional tourism priorities, particularly as the Philippines assumes a pivotal leadership role in the region.

** The Philippines currently serves as Chair of ASEAN for 2026 and is set to host more than 650 ASEAN meetings and 24 Ministerial Meetings throughout the year.

TIBFI remains steadfast in its support of initiatives that elevate Philippine tourism within the ASEAN community, promoting resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth across member states.

For updates and the full schedule of ASEAN 2026 activities:
• 2026 ASEAN Calendar of Activities:
https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Public-ASEAN-2026-Notional-Calendar-as-of-2-Feb.pdf

• Official Website:
https://asean2026.gov.ph/

• Live Streams and Updates:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1GuXWKCWiz/



Department of Tourism - Philippines ASEAN

Photos & activity highlights c/o: BOT Jojo Jojo M. Villamin, BOM Rumar Abaigar
Other TIBFI BOT attendees: Divine Delos Reyes & Minoll Alano

24/01/2026

🫵 𝑨𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑻𝑰𝑩𝑭𝑰? 🫵

Join us as we embark on another endeavor full of advocacy, initiatives, and programs that will surely shape your passion in creating a better tourism and hospitality industry. 🌏🏖️🌅 As we transitioned to a new team, we bring delights that allow everyone to feel their roles in our society at its full context and aspirations.

TIBFI will be your ally 👊👊👊as we get together in crafting our future for our industry. Be with us and enjoy our exciting benefits for our regular🥇, associate-institution 🥈, and associate-individual members 🥉.

✍️ Sign up now and let's start the journey!
https://forms.gle/5GHAYnK3GyDyNaYt5

23/01/2026

TIBFI Pays Courtesy Visit to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco; Takes Oath of Commitment to the Department of Tourism

Manila, Philippines — The Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI) paid a courtesy visit on 21 January 2026 to the Department of Tourism - Philippines (DOT), led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco , as a gesture of partnership and to reaffirm its commitment to supporting the Department’s leadership and priorities in advancing Philippine tourism development.

The courtesy visit provided an opportunity for formal engagement with Secretary Frasco on shared goals in tourism human capital development, strengthened public–private sector collaboration, and alignment of industry-led initiatives with the Department’s strategic direction. Secretary Frasco was joined by Usec. Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation.

Secretary Frasco welcomed the TIBFI delegation and underscored the Department of Tourism’s focus on building a globally competitive, resilient, and future-ready tourism workforce. She emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration with industry partners such as TIBFI.

Guided by Usec Rica Bueno, DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Standards, Regulations, and Human Capital Development and Adviser to TIBFI, the meeting highlighted the aligned efforts of the Department of Tourism and TIBFI in advancing tourism human capital initiatives. Usec. Bueno expressed her support for TIBFI’s mandate and presented ongoing DOT efforts and progress in this area, supported by data and updates from the office of Asec Sharlene Batin, Assistant Secretary for Tourism Digitization and Resource Generation.

The TIBFI delegation was led by Dr. M.I. Castillo Celis, Chairman of the Board, BOD of Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), assisted by the secretary of the organization,
Mr. Jojo M. Villamin, Founder, Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines (JTHMAP), who presented the organization’s strategic direction, including the Strategic Plan of Action for 2026–2028, and formally introduced the new Board of Trustees and members.

Present were: Vice Chairperson: Ms. Divine Delos Reyes of Association of Human Resources Managers Philippines, (AHRM), Treasurer: Ms. Minoll Alano/ Magnolia Ramona Alano of the Philippine Hotel Owners Association - PHOA , Auditor: Mr. Harold Bernardo Bueno of PARTH - Philippine Association of Researchers for Tourism and Hospitality , PRO: Ms. Xiameer Xialeemar Valdeavilla of Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers Inc. PACEOS.Org

Members of the Board: Mr. Marco Aristeo Jalandoni Gojol of NUWHRAIN-National Union of Workers in Hotel, Restaurant & Allied Industries (NUWRAIN - SENTRO), Dr. Rumar Abaigar of Union of Filipino Tourism Educators - UFTE (UFTE), Dr. Lilibeth Beth Aragon was represented by Dr. Jocelyn Young Camalig, of Association of Administrators in Hospitality, Hotel and Restaurant Management Educational Institutions (AAHRMEI), Philippine Tour Operators Association Inc (PHILTOA), Mr. Mervyn Maico David Aldana
School of Hospitality and Tourism Management - School of Hospitality and Tourism Management - Holy Angel University.

An open and constructive dialogue followed, enabling the exchange of insights and recommendations that helped define clearer areas of collaboration, actionable next steps, and forward-looking programs to support the diverse sectors of the tourism industry and contribute to national development.

Following the dialogue, TIBFI officers formally took their Oath of Commitment to the Department of Tourism, affirming their dedication to support the Department’s programs, uphold industry standards, and work closely with the DOT in advancing human capital development, toward the sustained growth of the Philippine tourism sector.

23/01/2026

The Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI) is truly honored to have had the opportunity to meet with the Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, last January 21, and present the new board , programs and strategic initiatives in support of tourism human capital development.

We remain committed to working closely with the Department of Tourism - Philippines (DOT) in advancing industry-led education, training, and skills development, and in strengthening tourism human capital in line with ASEAN and global standards.

We sincerely appreciate the Department of Tourism’s service and its continued commitment to deepening collaboration with TIBFI.

Rica Bueno M.I. Castillo Celis Divine Delos Reyes Jojo M. Villamin Minoll Alano Harold Bernardo Bueno Xiameer Xialeemar Mervyn Maico David Aldana Rumar Abaigar Marco Aristeo Jalandoni Gojol

15/01/2026

TIBFI Leaders Join National Consultation on PQF Revisions

On January 12, 2026, TIBFI Chairperson Dr. M.I. Castillo Celis and Board Trustee Dr. Beth Aragon participated in a high-level Stakeholder Consultation on the Proposed Revisions to the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF) held at the TESDA Women’s Center, Taguig City.

The consultation focused on proposed updates to the PQF domains, level descriptors, and framework diagram, key components that define national standards for workforce qualifications. Led by esteemed educators Dr. Ma. Cynthia Rose B. Bautista and Dr. Reynaldo B. Vea, the discussions emphasized aligning academic outcomes with the evolving needs of industry, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

During the plenary session moderated by Mr. Benhur A. Ong and Dr. Elyzzur C. Ramos, TIBFI shared critical industry insights on how these revisions can strengthen talent development, ensure global competitiveness, and promote transparency across qualification pathways.

The program concluded with a synthesis by Dr. Bautista and closing remarks from Dr. Melinda L. Garcia, underscoring the importance of collaboration between education, government, and industry in building a future-ready Filipino workforce.

TIBFI remains committed to advancing policies and standards that support a resilient, competitive, and inclusive tourism industry.

12/01/2026

DOT and TIBFI Gears up for HR Congress 2026

On January 9, 2026, the Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI) and the Department of Tourism - Philippines (DOT), held an exploratory virtual meeting to kick off preparations for the upcoming HR Congress 2026, slated for the third quarter of the year.

The meeting was presided over by TIBFI Chairperson Dr. Mark Irvin Celis M.I. Castillo Celis and featured Dir. Arlene Alipio, Director of the DOT’s Office of Industry Manpower Development. Also in attendance were HR Congress 2026 Chair Dr. Beth Aragon, Vice Chair Dr. Mervyn Maico David Aldana, members of the TIBFI Board of Trustees, and key DOT representatives.

As the official arm of the DOT in executing this landmark event, TIBFI will spearhead this year’s foundation-building initiatives. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to aligning industry manpower strategies with national tourism goals, ensuring that the Filipino workforce continues to shine as a global leader in hospitality.

Stay tuned for more updates on HR Congress 2026.