The Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA), was officially launched recently with its new members and set of officers. The momentous event was well-attended by government VIP's and members of the diplomatic corps who all gave their support and recognition for the new tourism association. 

"The words of encouragement from our VIP guests were a great source of inspiration for our members that gave us a very positive outlook in dealing with the many opportunities and challenges in the travel industry," said Ms. Michelle Taylan, President and founder of GTBA.

Guest of honor for the event is no less than Secretary of Tourism Christina Frasco, who led the oath-taking and induction of the new board members.  She was assisted by Ms. Michelle Taylan.

During the event, Secretary of Tourism Christina Frasco was honored with a "World Tourism Icon of the Year Award" for her invaluable work and enormous contribution to the success and growth of Philippine Tourism industry. "She was honored because of her exceptional leadership skills in rallying the entire tourism sector towards achieving a common goal for a stronger tourism industry. The Tourism Secretary was also cited for her numerous projects in aggressively promoting the Philippine tourism both locally and internationally that has produced positive results," said Ms. Michelle Taylan explained.

Secretary Frasco also commended GTBA led by Ms. Micelle Taylan for taking the initiative in organizing the group.  "I'd like to thank GTBA for taking the lead in forming the group and starting projects that greatly benefit the tourism industry," Secretary Frasco said.

Other honorees during the event were Israel Ambassador H.E. Ilon Fluss, Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino; and Thailand Ambassador H.E Tull Traisorat.  Each of them were awarded with the Ambassador of the Year Award for their diligent efforts in strengthening diplomatic ties between the countries that they represent and the Philippines.  They were also recognized for their programs that pave the way for a more active collaborations in the fields of business, tourism, cultural, and education.

Another top government official who graced the event was Quezon City Mayor Ms. Joy Belmonte. She was fittingly honored with the "Mayor of the Year Award" for the many recognitions that the city has received and one of them is the prestigious title "Wealthiest City in the Country" according to the Commission on Audit report for 2022. It is the city's third year to top the list.

GTBA is a non-profit, national tourism business association whose goal was to provide its members a legitimate voice in the industry to express and articulate the interests of its members.

GTBA has an impressive 150 members and what sets it apart from the other travel associations were its international members. " In the travel industry this is one big advantage because our local members can easily tap and coordinate with our international GTBA members for its  foreign tour operators," explained Ms. Michelle Taylan.

One of GTBA's paramount interest is to professionalize its ranks. This is to ensure that all its members are legitimate business entities. "We ensure that our members meet our requirements to qualify as members in good standing.  GTBA also has a program to make sure that they are updated on the latest happenings and trends in the travel industry," added Ms. Taylan.

As a major stakeholder in the travel industry, GTBA works closely with the Department of Tourism. "As a travel group, it can mobilize its members and resources  to fully support the Tourism Department's different projects and programs.  Since we believe that the success of the tourism industry will surely benefit its individual members " Ms. Taylan added.

Simultaneous to GTBA's launchings, was the official announcement of the 2nd Travel Sale Expo (TSE) which is slated on September 27 to 29, 2024 at the Megatrade Hall 1, 2 & 3, SM Megamall. "After its successful debut last September of this year, we at TSE 2024  are now busy preparing for another auspicious Travel Sale Expo for next year.  We promise to make it bigger and more exciting in terms of more offerings to the traveling public and entertaining to the thousands who will attend," explained by Ms. Michelle Taylan, Chairperson of Travel Sale Expo 2024.