Mindanao’s tourism industry is set to take center stage in Sultan Kudarat as tourism officials, local governments and industry players from across the island come together for the 4th Mindanao Tourism Expo (MTEX).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Soccsksargen will host the four-day event from Oct. 2 to 5 in Isulan, with the Sultan Kudarat provincial government as co-host.
With the theme “One Mindanao, Endless Wonders,” the expo will bring together the six tourism regions of Mindanao to promote destinations, local products, and cultural experiences while creating stronger connections within the island’s tourism industry.
Travel opportunities across Mindanao
More than a showcase of destinations, MTEX is expected to provide opportunities for tourism businesses to connect and create travel packages that link different parts of Mindanao.
The travel and trade exhibit from Oct. 2 to 4 will feature tourism destinations, local government units, and airlines, as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises offering tour packages, local delicacies and handmade products.
DOT-Soccsksargen said the event is part of efforts to strengthen Mindanao as a connected tourism circuit and introduce its destinations and products to a broader market.
Tourism businesses to meet outside buyers
Local tourism sellers will also get a chance to expand their market during business-to-business meetings with buyers from Luzon and the Visayas on Oct. 3 at Carlito’s Hotel.
DOT-Soccsksargen, headed by Nelia Arina, said the meetings are intended to open partnerships between Mindanao tourism enterprises and travel agencies, potentially giving local destinations and products greater exposure among travelers from outside the island.
The expo will likewise put the spotlight on Mindanao’s rich cultural traditions through “Weaves of Mindanao,” a cultural and fashion presentation scheduled on Oct. 2.
The show will feature indigenous textiles such as Tnalak and Inaul, with local designers incorporating the traditional fabrics into contemporary creations.
Culture and sustainable tourism take the spotlight
Cultural performances will continue throughout the expo, with participating regions presenting indigenous dances, traditional music and other cultural showcases from Oct. 2 to 4.
MTEX will conclude on Oct. 5 with a cross-learning activity, where participating tourism officials and exhibitors will visit selected destinations in Soccsksargen.
According to DOT-Soccsksargen, the expo also seeks to further establish the region as a destination for eco-adventure, cultural tourism and meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).
The agency said the event supports a tourism approach that gives communities a role in the industry while promoting environmental protection and the preservation of Mindanao’s cultural heritage.
