By Romeo Braceros, Jr.

The Department of Tourism has identified Cebu as a major tourist destination in the Philippines, so more Japanese visitors are anticipated to return.

According to the latest information from the DOT, the Philippine pavilion promotes the rich culture, adventure, and culinary attractions of the nation in line with the TEJ's themes for commerce, "Taking on the New Era: Restart," and for the general public, "Hello New Journey."

Other notable locations alongside Cebu are Bohol, Boracay, and Manila.

The four-day TEJ is regarded as the largest travel trade fair in Japan. It is organized by the Japan Travel and Tourism Association (JTTA), the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

It is expected to draw 150,000 visitors and feature 1,800 exhibitors from 154 nations and 47 prefectures.

Former DOT-VII regional director and current Undersecretary Sahlimar Hofer Tamano led the delegation for the Philippines as Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco was still in New York, USA, attending the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as a representative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Tamano, along with TPB officer-in-charge Charles Aames M. Bautista and representatives from the DOT's public and private sector tourism partners, such as Cebu's Bai Hotel and Attic Tours Phils, was there with him. Philippine Airlines, Shangri-Boracay La's Resort and Spa, Bohol Beach Club, Cebu Air, Inc., Gladex Travel Services, Herald Suites Hotels, Hotel 101 Manila, Philippine Airlines, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, and Waterfront Hotels & Casinos.
 
Along with high-ranking officials and representatives from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel and Tourism Council, Tamano also participated in the Ministerial Round Table Discussions on "Climate Change-Tourism Stakeholders' Endeavors" and "Coexisting with COVID in the Post-Pandemic World-Solutions for the New Tourism Industry" as a panelist (WTTC).

Under Secretary Frasco's direction, Tamano took on the DOT's strategic initiatives to achieve sustainability.

Tamano stated, "The Philippines Department of Tourism acknowledges the critical role of the tourism sector in reducing the detrimental effects of climate change as an industry that relies significantly on the beauty of the natural environment and its resources."

Tamano emphasized that the Philippines' "sell and conserve" approach to tourism makes it unique.

That is our unique mandate in tourism," Tamano continued, "to both sell and preserve; to make sure that the beauty of our nation stays while ensuring that people get to enjoy a distinctive Philippine travel experience."

Tamano emphasized that this is how they attempt to balance commercial potential and social duty.

According to Tamano, finding a balance between business potential and social responsibilities is ultimately more important than the actual numbers.

DOT envisions a tourism economy based on sustainable growth, efficient local administration, and coordination between local and national governments.