Members coming in the event in their best graffiti-themed attire during
the 2024 TPB Members’ Night

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines successfully hosted its much-anticipated Members’ Night on December 4, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). The evening brought together over 300 participants from the TPB Membership Program to celebrate their camaraderie, achievements, and shared commitment to promoting Philippine tourism and uplifting communities.

Anchored on the theme of community in action, TPB organized this year’s Members’ Night in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and put this spirit of bayanihan to center stage. The event included a donation drive, where the members are able to turn in their donations for those affected by recent typhoons in Bicol. This partnership not only underscored the importance of collective action but also highlighted how shared efforts can create a lasting impact on these communities.

In the spirit of bayanihan, the TPB and the Philippine Red Cross set up a booth in PICC,
for in-kind donations

Since 2022, the TPB members gather annually to celebrate the collective achievements of their colleagues and to strengthen the relationships they formed within the tourism industry. This gathering serves as a platform to reflect on milestones, share insights, and align future goals.

In line with the theme, this year’s event underscored unity and hope while rallying support for communities affected by recent typhoons, a reminder of resilience and collective spirit in recovery. TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles reflected on these recent challenges and highlighted the significance of tourism on our economy especially in times of crisis. ”We must come together to help our affected regions recover. As we move forward, let’s remain dedicated to strengthening our tourism industry, supporting local communities, and showcasing the Philippines as a world-class destination,” said Nograles. She further thanked the members for their continued support to TPB’s Corporate Social Responsibility programs from the one they attended in Zambales, up until this initiative with PRC.

From left to right: COO Marga Nograles, Secretary Christina Frasco,
and PICC Deputy GM Butch Garcia arrive at the TPB Members’ Night

The exciting night was also graced by the Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, COO Marga Nograles, ADCOO Teresita DL Landan, PHILTOA President Arjun Shroff, TIEZA ACOO Jetro Lozada, and PICC Deputy GM Butch Garcia. In her opening remarks, Nograles welcomed all the guests and expressed heartfelt gratitude while emphasizing the year’s achievements. “Standing strong at 493, each of you has contributed to the growth and success of Philippine tourism, helping to amplify the beauty of our islands and the vibrancy of our local cultures. Whether promoting well-known destinations or uncovering hidden gems, you have been key in positioning the Philippines as one of the top travel destinations in the world,” she said.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles addresses the crowd, emphasizing how 2024 is a banner year for the Philippine tourism industry.

She also took pride in the global recognition received by TPB, made possible through working with the members. “2024 has been a milestone year for Philippine tourism, and your contributions have been integral to our success,” she shared, noting the five prestigious recognitions of TPB. These are the Most Unique Booth award at the 31st Travel Tour Expo, the Silver CTW Chinese Tourist Welcome Award 2024 for Marketing, and for the third consecutive year, the Sustainability Leader of the Year (Asia) at the TripZilla Excellence Awards. We were also honored with the Philippines Public Sector Initiative of the Year—Tourism at the GovMedia Conference and the Best National Tourism Organization in Asia at the TTG Travel Awards.

Looking ahead, Nograles inspired the attendees with a vision of collaboration and shared purpose. She added, “With every event and familiarization tour we organize, we have the privilege to rediscover well-known destinations and discover our emerging destinations across the country. These experiences empower us to offer travelers more unique, authentic journeys.”

The 2024 TPB Members’ Night ended on a high note with a raffle and Bingo game as a simple token of appreciation for making 2024 a banner year for TPB. The event served as an expression of hope that embodies the enduring spirit of bayanihan and a shared commitment to building a stronger tourism industry. As the year comes to a close, the TPB and its members reaffirm their collective ability to inspire and elevate the Philippines as a premier tourist destination.

Reference:
Maria Nedalin L. Miranda
Acting Division Chief
Media Relations and Communications Division
[email protected]