Philippine envoy seeks stronger tourism ties with Bangladesh
Philippine Ambassador to Bangladesh Nina Padilla Cainglet today expressed optimism about expanding bilateral tourism cooperation, emphasising greater people-to-people connectivity, cultural exchanges and sustainable tourism development between the two countries.
"I look forward to more cooperation between our two countries," she said while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the three-day Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair (BTTF) 2026 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in Agargaon here.
The ambassador said tourism offered enormous opportunities to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between Bangladesh and the Philippines while contributing to economic growth, employment generation and cultural preservation.
"Tourism gives you the opportunity to see the heart and soul of countries," she said, highlighting how travelling enables people to experience different cultures, traditions, cuisine and heritage.
Cainglet said tourism could serve as an important bridge between nations by bringing people closer and fostering a deeper appreciation of their cultural diversity.
Highlighting the Philippines' tourism potential, she warmly invited Bangladeshi travellers to explore the Southeast Asian country's natural beauty and cultural attractions.
"It's a beautiful country. Its people are kind and hospitable," she said, adding that visitors would experience a welcoming atmosphere that could make them feel at home.
The Philippine envoy emphasised that tourism was not merely about leisure and recreation but also played a crucial role in supporting livelihoods and strengthening national economies.
"It directly or indirectly supports 10 percent of global economic activity. It supports at least one of 10 jobs," she said.
Cainglet underscored the need for countries to work together to promote tourism as an important driver of economic opportunities and employment.
Welcoming the fair's theme, "AI Powered Tourism, Sustainable Destination", the ambassador stressed the importance of sustainable tourism practices to protect natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations.
"What we have today, we inherited it, and we pass it on to the next generation," she said.
The ambassador also appreciated the organisers' initiative to showcase traditional dances and cultural performances, saying tourism helped preserve and revitalise cultural traditions.
She observed that tourism provided opportunities to revive traditional music, dances and other cultural expressions that might otherwise gradually disappear.
Cainglet congratulated the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) for organising the international tourism exhibition and wished Bangladesh's tourism industry continued growth and success.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry Secretary Dr Nurun Nahar Chowdhury inaugurated the 14th edition of BTTF as the chief guest.
Organised by TOAB, the three-day exhibition will continue until October 31, bringing together tourism operators, airlines, hotels, travel agencies and hospitality businesses from Bangladesh and abroad.
The fair features participation from 16 countries, including Bangladesh, creating opportunities for international tourism cooperation and business partnerships.
According to the organisers, the exhibition features more than 200 booths and stalls, over 220 exhibitors and approximately 2,500 trade visitors.
The event aims to promote Bangladesh's tourism potential, strengthen international business networking and encourage technological innovation and sustainable tourism practices.
