GTBA-ONEKLIK honors 80 leaders at 3rd Ambassador Awards; 4th Travel Sale Expo launches

The Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) and ONEKLIK Events have successfully staged the 3rd Ambassador of the Year Awards in conjunction with the launch of the 4th Travel Sale Expo—an annual tribute recognizing 80 individuals and organizations whose work builds meaningful bridges between communities, cultures, and nations.

The ceremony was graced by H.E. Shri Harsh Kumar Jain, Ambassador of India to the Philippines. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte delivered the keynote address and was conferred the LGU Ambassador of the Year award. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Dita Mathay was represented by DOT Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso as keynote speaker, who—together with DOT Undersecretary Rica Bueno—received the Tourism Ambassador Award. Key highlights of the event included the launch of the 4th Travel Sale Expo and the presentation of the Ambassador of the Year Award and Diplomatic Excellence Award, conferred to: H.E. Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia; Vietnam Ambassador H.E. Lai Thai Binh; H.E. Thippasone Sengsourinha, Ambassador of Laos; Cambodia Ambassador H.E. Sin Saream; Qatar Ambassador H.E. Ahmed Bin Saad N.A. Al‑Homidi; and Oman Ambassador H.E. Nasser Said Al Manwari. Diplomatic Excellence Awardees are: Atty. Hesti Dewayani, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia; and H.E. Wallace Min Gan Chow, Taiwan Ambassador to the Philippines. Media Ambassadors recognized are: Daily Tribune, The Manila Times, GMA News Online, Net25, SMNI, Hudyat News, and United News. Other distinguished awardees include: TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid as Tourism Infrastructure Ambassador of the Year; Governor Jun Aguto of Batanes, recipient of the Batanes Ambassador Award; and Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores of Aklan, recipient of the Aklan Ambassador Award. Additional LGU Ambassadors honored are: Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista, Baybay Mayor Carlos Cari, and Pagadian Mayor Sammy Co. Joining them were key officials from the DOT—Regional Directors Krisma Rodriguez, Ms. Judy Gabato, and Ms. Catherine Agustin—who received tourism excellence awards, alongside representatives from various government agencies, foreign embassies, and the private sector. Further award categories included Airline Ambassadors, Hospitality Ambassadors, IATA Ambassador, and NTO Ambassadors: Israel Ministry of Tourism’s Ms. Ana Aban; Taiwan Tourism Authority’s Mr. Rick Yu; Tourism Malaysia Director Mohd Faizal Sharip; and Guam Visitors Bureau’s Mr. Philip Gejon. Other awardees were recognized under LGU Tourism Ambassadors, Tourism Excellence Trade Partner Ambassadors, Bank and Credit Card Brand Ambassadors, and GTBA Ambassadors.

A multi‑sectoral panel of judges evaluated nominees based on three core criteria: depth of contribution, measurable impact, and consistent commitment to advancing tourism and inclusive national development. The award stands as a symbol of dedication to progress, Filipino hospitality, and shared prosperity.

“In every sense, these are the real ambassadors—defined not by their titles or appointment alone, but by the work they do,” shared GTBA President Michelle G. Taylan. “They turn policies into tangible progress, places into world‑class destinations, and stories of culture and heritage into opportunities for all.”

The awards ceremony coincided with the official launch of the 4th Travel Sale Expo, scheduled for October 2–4, 2026, at SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. The event also formalized key partnerships: Metrobank was named Official Bank Partner and was likewise conferred the Bank and Credit Card Brand Ambassador of the Year award, while Daily Tribune serves as Official Media Partner. The 4th Travel Sale Expo brings unbeatable deals up to 75% off, exclusive packages, exciting entertainment, and big prizes for travelers. Traditionally held during the “BER months,” the expo arrives at the perfect time—giving travelers the chance to lock in low rates for next year’s adventures and find meaningful travel gifts for family and friends this holiday season. Since its launch in 2023, this three‑day event has become the go‑to destination for both leisure and business travelers seeking great value and reliable service. More Than Just a Sale—It’s a Complete Travel Experience. In a world filled with digital offers, the Travel Sale Expo stands out as an irreplaceable face‑to‑face experience. Visitors get direct access to airlines, hotels, accredited travel agencies, tourism boards, hospitality providers, and financial institutions—all under one roof. Huge Savings: Enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 75% off on selected travel services, accommodations, tour packages, and travel essentials—deals rarely found online. Trust & Assurance: Meet suppliers in person, verify details, and receive transparent information so you can book with full confidence. Expert Guidance: Get personalized advice from travel professionals to help you design the perfect itinerary, understand travel requirements, and stay within your budget.

“Travel is no longer just a luxury—it has become a dream, a motivation, and a way of life. People save for it, plan for it, and cherish the experiences it brings. Once you start exploring, you’ll want to keep going. The 4th Travel Sale Expo is exactly where you can turn those plans into reality—affordably, safely, and confidently.” — Michelle G. Taylan, Chairperson, Travel Sale Expo(TSE).

ADVT.

This article is brought to you by the Global Tourism Business Association.