Top travel vloggers and influencers who have made significant contributions to the country’s tourism industry through their social media content will be given recognition at the Go Negosyo Tourism Summit 2023 being held at SM Seaside City in Cebu City on May 6.
Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion acknowledged the role of travel and tourism influencers in promoting the country’s various attractions both to local and international markets.
“This is an area that will really help our [micro, small and medium enterprises or MSMEs],’’ Concepcion said. “Through [the content creators’] help, our tourism numbers are now returning to its prepandemic levels while many income opportunities have opened for our MSMEs in various parts of the country.”
The summit will also feature a roundtable discussion on “The Power of Storytelling.” Expected guests include travel content creators like Bogart the Explorer, Kyle “Kulas” Jennermann of “Becoming Filipino,” Carl Chuidian of “The Chui Show,” Angelica Gapit of “Angelica and Aileen Wanders,” and Herbie Arabelo of “NSTV Travel Vlog.”
Awards, discussions
Aside from the influencers and vloggers, 20 enterprises in the tourism industry will also be given awards.
The summit is copresented by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board, along with SM Seaside City, and with support from the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Also among the key speakers are Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco.
Joining the discussions are Asean Tourism Association president Eddy Soemawilaga, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, General Luna Mayor Sol Matugas, Panglao Mayor Edgardo Arcay, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry director Samie Lim, AirAsia chief executive Ricky Isla, Cebu Pacific president Alexander Lao, Henann president Alfonso Chusuey, renowned designer Kenneth Cobonpue and Philippine Hotel Owners Association executive director Benito Bengzon.