This highly urbanized city showcased the readiness of the local government and stakeholders in responding to the demand of hosting meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibits (MICE) with its three-day MICE VENDEXPO (Vendors Expo) from Aug. 12 to 14.
“For three days, we are bringing together event suppliers, service providers, MICE professionals, and business stakeholders to showcase products and services, but more importantly, to build partnerships and create opportunities,” Mayor Raisa Treñas said during the official opening of the event on Thursday.
Treñas said it saddened her to know that while Iloilo is being promoted as a MICE destination, organizers get their suppliers from Manila.
“This is a very important milestone in the journey of our city and for Iloilo. I want to showcase all of the suppliers that we have here in Iloilo,” she said.
Treñas said MICE is not simply holding an event, it is about bringing people together and opening opportunities.
“When we attract a conference or convention to Iloilo, the benefits go beyond the venue. Our hotels, restaurants, transport providers, event suppliers, creatives, tour operators, entrepreneurs, and many other businesses become part of that experience,” she added.
Treñas said Iloilo is increasingly showing readiness for the kind of tourism that brings in visitors, while creating income and livelihood opportunities for the locals.
“Beyond our venues, hotels and infrastructure, we have something that makes the Iloilo experience truly special. Our historic landmarks, old houses, traditions, festivals, arts, and stories give visitors an experience beyond the conference rooms,” she said.
Food brings people together, creates memories, and gives our local restaurants, food entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses opportunities to grow, she added.
The three-day event also featured discussions on event planning and MICE marketing, among others.
Iloilo City MICE Center Director Lea Lara, in a forum, also highlighted the center’s venues, facilities and services, showcasing the city as a premier destination for meetings, conferences, and business events.
The expo was organized by the Iloilo City MICE Alliance and the MICE Center, in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region VI, with the support of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority.
Also joining the opening of the event were Tourism Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and former Senator Franklin Drilon. (PNA)
