Iloilo City, the regional center of Western Visayas, is eyeing to attract more local and foreign tourists this year.
Junel Ann Divingracia, head of the City Tourism and Development Office (CTDO), said they have set a target of 1.4 million tourist arrivals for 2020.
Last year, more than 1.2 million tourists visited the city, which is being positioned as the country’s primary meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination.
According Divinagracia, the city has a lot to offer in terms of tourism.
Aside from its world-famous Dinagyang Festival, the city is also known for its sumptuous food, heritage buildings, and art events.
Department of Tourism (DOT-6) Director Atty. Helen J. Catalbas said the city’s 2020 target is “achievable”.
She expects that more conventions and other big-ticket events will be held in the city this year.
In October last year, the city launched its “Meet You in Iloilo” MICE campaign.
The P50-million campaign aims to market Iloilo as the premier MICE destination in the country.
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said, “Iloilo has proven itself an ideal site or city for MICE growth, given the city’s seamless infrastructure, ranging from its gateways both airports and seaports to wide highways and modern business parks.”
“What makes Iloilo City a unique MICE destination is its rich in history, heritage and culture providing enriching experiences to delegates, and adding value to their stay,” she added.IMT
