TACLOBAN CITY – Eastern Visayas played host to the 2025 Central Philippines Tourism Expo (CPTEx) from June 20 to 22, drawing hundreds of participants from across the country to Robinsons Place in Marasbaras for three days of cultural celebration, collaboration, and promotion of sustainable tourism.
Organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), CPTEx is a flagship program aimed at showcasing the diverse cultural heritage, natural wonders, and emerging tourism destinations across Central and Southern Luzon, the Visayas, and parts of Mindanao.
Participating regions included Calabarzon, MIMAROPA, Bicol, Western and Central Visayas, Negros Island Region, and the host region, Eastern Visayas.
“Tourism is not just about attracting visitors; it’s about building pride, creating livelihoods, and bringing every region into the spotlight,” said Tourism Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano during the opening ceremony on June 20.
He emphasized that CPTEx is more than a display of destinations—it’s a dynamic platform to forge partnerships, promote sustainability, and ignite interest in lesser-known local gems.
Tamano encouraged stakeholders to view tourism as a unifying force, stating, “May this event ignite new ideas, foster collaboration, and bring fresh energy to our shared goal of promoting our local treasures to the whole country and the world.”
Over 200 exhibitors and tourism stakeholders participated in the event, with booths featuring regional delicacies, handicrafts, cultural performances, and travel packages. Notably, delegations came not just from Central Philippines but also from Northern Luzon and Mindanao, underscoring the event’s expanding reach and inclusivity.
Among the guests was Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre, who reaffirmed legislative support for the tourism sector.
“Let this expo be a powerful reminder that every investment in tourism is an investment in our people,” he said. Acidre pledged support for laws that empower local tourism workers, boost collaboration between government and the private sector, and promote inclusive growth across all regions.
In her closing remarks, DOT Region VIII Director Karina Rosa Tiopes expressed gratitude to the national and regional partners, local government units, and private sector participants who made the event a success. “CPTEx 2025 is a testament to the strength of collaboration in building a thriving and resilient tourism industry,” she said.
A highlight of the closing day was the CPTEx 2025 Best Booth Awards, which recognized outstanding presentations for creativity, interactivity, and storytelling:
Best Luzon Booth: Ilocos Region; Best Central Philippines Booth: MIMAROPA; Best Mindanao Booth: Zamboanga Peninsula; Best Eastern Visayas Booth: Province of Samar; Overall Best Booth – CPTEx 2025: Province of Samar.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
