THE Department of Tourism (DoT) and various stakeholders from the public and private sectors come together as they prepare for the Philippines' hosting of the 36th Joint Commission Meeting of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, and the Commission for South Asia (CAP-CSA), as well as the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu.

The back-to-back meetings set for June 26–28, 2024 are expected to draw over 400 delegates from CAP-CSA countries, associate members, affiliate members, officials and strategic partners of UN Tourism, ministers, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps, academe, gastronomy stakeholders, national and local government officials, legislators and the media from more than 30 countries.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized the country's preparedness to welcome them with only a few days until the delegates arrive in Cebu.

"We are prepared to welcome all our delegates from UN Tourism member states and affiliates to the Philippines, particularly to Cebu, a province renowned for its rich gastronomy, stunning tourism and dive spots, vibrant heritage and culture, and its significance as the cradle of Christianity in the country," Frasco said.

The Philippines, represented by Frasco, was elected vice president of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), now known as UN Tourism, during the 55th Meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, which took place in Cambodia on June 16.

"The Philippines' hosting of these significant events is also a chance to showcase our strength as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions and attract prospects for partnerships and collaboration within and outside of Asia and the Pacific region, which can redound to growth for the economy and more opportunities for our fellow Filipinos," Frasco said.

The DoT works with public and private agencies to provide a safe and memorable experience for all delegates, including briefings on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training program for tourism frontliners at the airport, billeting hotels and partner local government units, as well as liaison officers, student volunteers and close-in security during the meetings.

The DoT's Regional Office in Central Visayas has also thoroughly inspected the forum sites and billeting hotels to assure readiness, particularly regarding security, emergency preparedness and room accommodations.

Dedicated information counters will be established at these locations to help delegates.