Representative, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, Senator Shelley Calvo – Majority Whip of the 38th Guam Legislature, and Jocelyn Lim-Bata – Metrobank
The third edition of the Travel Sale Expo (TSE) concluded its highly anticipated run last September 26–28, 2025, at the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall, once again cementing its reputation as the country’s premier travel fair. Organized by the Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) and Oneklik Events, in partnership with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), Boracay Malay, Aklan, LGU, Tourism Malaysia, Guam Visitors Bureau(GVB), Department of Trade and Industry(DTI), supported by the Department of Tourism(DOT) and various embassies such as Malaysia Embassy, Indonesia Embassy, Cambodia Embassy, Laos Embassy, Vietnam Embassy, India Embassy and Brunei Embassy. The three-day event gathered over 200 booth exhibitors from the airline, hotel, cruise, and tour sectors, drawing tens of thousands of eager travelers and industry stakeholders.
With its theme, “Your Gateway to the World,” this year’s TSE brought together local and international partners offering unbeatable discounts, exclusive packages, and flexible payment terms for travelers. From domestic gems like Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu to international favorites such as Taiwan, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the expo showcased destinations fit for every type of wanderer—whether for leisure, culture, or faith-based tourism.
GTBA Founding Chairman and TSE Chairperson Michelle Taylan said the event aims to open the doors for the general public to see the world. “We are moving towards democratizing travel for the everyday Filipino. The Travel Sale Expo is designed to make dream trips accessible, affordable, and stress-free. It’s not just about YOLO or FOMO anymore—people want smarter, value-packed travel choices, and that’s what we deliver,” Taylan said.
Beyond offering markdowns on airfare and packages, the event also served as a networking hub for the tourism industry. Seminars and dialogues between local suppliers, international operators, and government agencies facilitated discussions on emerging travel trends, halal tourism, and sustainable growth opportunities.
A major highlight this year was the expanded partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which worked alongside the Department of Tourism (DOT) to spotlight local products and services that reflect the Philippines’ rich culture and heritage. This collaboration also emphasized promoting Muslim-friendly travel, strengthening the country’s position as a welcoming destination for ASEAN neighbors and beyond.
The expo’s immersive experience didn’t stop at deals and bookings. Attendees were treated to surprise performances, interactive booths, and travel essentials pop-ups from global retail brands. According to GTBA, these value-added experiences are designed to encourage Filipinos to see travel as more than just a luxury, but as an integral lifestyle choice that supports livelihoods and boosts the economy.
“Events like TSE are not only about promoting destinations, but also about creating jobs and strengthening the entire tourism value chain. We are proud to provide a platform that uplifts both the industry and the traveling public,” Taylan added.
Since its debut in 2023, the Travel Sale Expo has experienced significant growth. This year’s installment surpassed expectations, further establishing the event as a cornerstone in the Philippines’ tourism calendar. With its continued success, GTBA-Oneklik and its partners promise an even bigger celebration in 2026, as the Travel Sale Expo continues to unlock opportunities for Filipinos to explore the world—one affordable trip at a time.
The opening ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, DTI Director Mr. Aleem Guiapal, DFA Assistant Secretary Rhenita B. Rodriguez, Mayor Frolibar Bautista, Senator of Guam Hon. Shelley Calvo, along with members of the diplomatic corps such as Indonesia Ambassador H.E. Agus Widjojo, India Ambassador H.E. Harsh Kumar Jain, Vietnam Ambassador H.E. Lai Thai Binh, Cambodia Ambassador H.E. Sin Saream, Israel Ambassador Dana Kursh and Taiwan Ambassador Representative Wallace Minn Gan Chow, and other distinguished guests and VIPs from the government and private sector, along with key sponsors Metrobank Ms. Jocelyn Lim-Bata, Gcash Philippines, San Augustine, Mixcaricature also with Airline partners Airasia Philippines and United Airlines together Media partners: Daily Tribune, Manila Times, Daily chronicles, Malaya Business Insight and Manila Standard.
