ASEAN hosting to boost PHL tourism sector –DFA

“We hope that we showcase the best in the Philippines. Because of this, positives of our country will be highlighted. Many delegates will come,” said Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Robespierre Bolivar in a press briefing. (Photo: Department of Foreign Affairs Republic of the Philippines/ Facebook)

MANILA–The Philippine chairmanship in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit this year can boost the country’s tourism as well as raise the profile of hosts cities and provinces.

“We hope that we showcase the best in the Philippines. Because of this, positives of our country will be highlighted. Many delegates will come,” said Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Robespierre Bolivar in a press briefing.

Bolivar said hosting about 150 international meetings would provide opportunity for the country to showcase its tourist destinations and hospitality of Filipinos.

He said it could also generate income for hosts cities and provinces.

The DFA official said Philippine trade is also expected to improve, as ASEAN members discuss various issues including trade, as well as people-to-people exchanges, cultural exchanges, educational cooperation and security cooperation.

The DFA will host the 30th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings from April 26 to 29.

Bolivar said they expected all nine other ASEAN leaders to be in attendance at the meetings to be held at the Philippine International Convention Center on April 29.

ASEAN groups Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.