The Davao Tourism Association (DATA) has gathered tourism leaders, stakeholders, and hospitality industry leaders for its 1st HTX Hospitality and Tourism Experience Conference at Acacia Hotel Davao on Friday.
Carrying the theme “Redefining the Future through Innovation, Sustainability and Excellence”, the activity explored methods to redefine the future of Philippine tourism and make it more innovative, sustainable, and filled with excellence.
“Thus, we are here today to explore the latest trends, innovations, and best practices that are shaping the future of tourism and hospitality. And that Davao can compete on the global stage,” said Nicole Hao Bian-Ledesma, Chief Operating Officer of the Joji Ilagan International Schools and President of DATA.
Department of Tourism 11 (DOT 11) Director Tanya Rabat-Tan said the activity is a unique opportunity to immerse in the ever-evolving world of hospitality and tourism, connect with industry leaders, and gain invaluable insights that will shape tourism-related stakeholders and shape their future careers.
Tan said the region’s tourism industry has been marked by notable strides and milestones and cited that in the first semester alone, it showed that the Davao Region emerged strong on MICE as it welcomed more than 100,000 guests brought by over 2,000 national and international events conducted in Davao City.
“We also further introduced the beauty and countless potentials of the region internationally, through participated activities and initiated tourism roadshow,” she said.
Recently as well, DOT 11 officially welcomed the Air Service Development Committee which is strongly invested in helping improve Mindanao’s primary gateway and provide the region with strong domestic and international market opportunities.
“Other than that, we are also proud that we were able to successfully push through with various sustainable initiatives that became beneficial to the local communities and tourism industry, as a whole,” Tan said.
Tan said throughout the conference, the participants have the chance to learn from experts, engage in meaningful discussions, and network with professionals who share the passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences.
“The hospitality industry is dynamic and full of opportunities, and this conference is designed to inspire and equip us with the tools, knowledge, and connections to succeed in this exciting field,” she said.
The conference was also in line with DATA’s 50th anniversary activities.
“This year, as we mark the 50th anniversary of the Davao Tourism Association (DATA), we celebrate our journey as the pioneering tourism organization in Mindanao, established in 1974 with the mission of bringing together the private sector and the City Government to develop and promote tourism. Over the past five decades, DATA has grown to become the oldest and largest tourism organization in Southern Philippines, dedicated to fostering cooperation among all tourism players,” Ledesma said.
Ledesma said this milestone anniversary has allowed DATA to reflect on its journey and a call to action.
Ledesma added that as the global tourism landscape rapidly evolves with technological advancements, sustainability challenges, and shifting market demands, Davao City and the Davao Region’s tourism industry must be resilient, adaptive, and forward-looking.
“Thank you for making this milestone event even more successful. To the attendees, we are confident that the connections and insights gained here today will contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for Davao’s tourism industry. As we always say in DATA, “for the love of Davao!” she said.
