CITY OF MAKATI — The Treasures of SOX Travel & Trade Expo ended with a big bang, registering P34 million in trade sales and another P11 million in tourism sales (both cash, booked and under negotiations) as it ended its 5-day activity at Glorietta Event Center here last April 7.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 12 which reported the trade sales disclosed that they exceeded their target of P30 million for this year’s TTE. Some 30 exhibitors consisting of partner LGUs and NGAs, MSMEs and sponsor Philippine Airlines joined the TTE.
Meanwhile, Department of Tourism (DOT) 12 Regional Director Nelly Nita Dillera disclosed that P11 million in tourism sales were generated in which the bulk went to the upcoming national convention of the National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs slated from April 22 – 30 in Koronadal City as well as the Lake Holon Tours.
RD Dillera added that “it does include the intangibles such as the case of University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts which promised to help design the 15 Guardians of Lake Holon project.”
DTI 12 also awarded JNB Diversified Food Products, distributor of Xantonics health and wellness supplements, as the top grosser among MSME exhibitors.
The company which is owned by Jawharia Bajunaid from Purok 10-A, Tupi, South Cotsbato, has 7 stalls located in big malls in General Santos City, Davao City and Tagum City. They planned to expand their business in Metro Manila soon.
Exhibitors and partners were recognized by DOT through the awarding of plaque of recognition during the closing program.
Internationally-acclaimed Hinugyaw Cultural Dance Troupe of Koronadal City led by choreographer Benhur Abulencia which entertained the crowd since Day I of the TTE was given a standing ovation together with the father-daughter “singing” tandem Lloyd and Emilyn Conhorado (General Santos City Pop Idol).
This early, DOT together with other stakeholders, is already planning for the Philippine Travel Mart which will be held during the first weekend of September this year.
