Pasay City:Manila The Philippine hosting of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings is projected to attract over 10,000 delegates and foreign visitors to the country, as announced by the Department of Tourism (DOT).
According to Philippines News Agency, Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay disclosed in a press conference in Makati City that the high-level meetings are fully prepared to welcome international leaders in Pasay City, including United States President Donald Trump. The summit is expected to significantly impact tourism numbers in the Philippines.
Angara-Mathay emphasized that the Department of Tourism is focusing on organizing social events, hospitality, and tourism activities. These include managing the opening and closing ceremonies, a gala dinner, and site enhancements. The Philippines will showcase a variety of Filipino cuisine from across the archipelago, featuring dishes from restaurants recently recognized with a Michelin citation.
An art exhibit is also planned, featuring works by some of the Philippines' renowned artists, such as Vicente Manansala, Arturo Luz, Juan Luna, and Félix Resurreccion Hidalgo. Additionally, the DOT is coordinating airport arrivals with performances by Ballet Philippines and the National Symphony Orchestra.
The DOT, serving as the vice-chair for operations of the ASEAN National Organizing Council, has trained approximately 300 liaison officers, information officers, and ushers for the summit. The department is also ready to arrange curated trips for foreign delegates interested in exploring the country's attractions post-summit.
In anticipation of the event, the DOT and girl group BINI released a music video titled 'Sama-Sama Tayo,' celebrating the Philippines' previous hosting of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu. The video aims to engage both foreign visitors and the Filipino diaspora, promoting the Philippines as a destination. This follows the release of SB19's 'Together in Motion,' the official song for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
