The Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) has honored Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco with the prestigious World Tourism Icon of the Year Award. This recognition is a testament to Frasco’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to revitalizing and continuously growing the Philippine tourism sector.
The GTBA organizers expressed their admiration for Frasco’s efforts in showcasing the country’s finest attractions to the world while fostering cultural exchange, sustainable tourism, and economic growth. They praised her for attracting visitors from all corners of the globe and setting a new standard for excellence in the global tourism landscape.
In a statement, the organizers said, “This plaque serves as a token of our deep appreciation for your extraordinary contributions to the tourism industry. May it stand as a testament to the positive impact you have made and inspire future generations.”
In her keynote message, Frasco emphasized the pivotal role of the tourism industry and the importance of collaboration between the private tourism sector and the government. She highlighted how this partnership has not only helped in recovering from pandemic losses but also in achieving unprecedented goals in the tourism sector.
“I commend GTBA for rallying the private sector and continuing to champion Philippine tourism globally,” Frasco added.
Furthermore, Frasco presided over the induction of the new officers of the GTBA, a nonprofit national tourism organization founded in August 2018 by Michelle Guerrero Taylan. The GTBA’s mission is to promote long-term tourism growth in the Philippines.
With over 100 members, the GTBA actively promotes responsible tourism and holistic development in the Philippines’ travel and tourism sectors through networking events, training, and advocacy.
Tourism plays a vital role in the economic growth of countries worldwide. In the case of the Philippines, it is a significant contributor to the nation’s GDP and employment. The recognition of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco as the World Tourism Icon of the Year not only acknowledges her exceptional leadership but also highlights the importance of the tourism sector in the country’s overall development.
Under Frasco’s guidance, the Philippine tourism industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Through collaborative efforts with the private sector, the government has been able to implement effective strategies to recover and rebuild the tourism sector.
The recognition by the GTBA serves as an inspiration not only to Secretary Frasco but also to future generations of tourism leaders. It showcases the positive impact that can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.
As the GTBA continues to promote responsible tourism and holistic development, it is evident that the organization’s efforts are aligned with the goals of the Philippine government. By working together, the public and private sectors can create a sustainable and thriving tourism industry that benefits both local communities and international visitors.
Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco’s recognition as the World Tourism Icon of the Year is a well-deserved accolade that highlights her outstanding contributions to the Philippine tourism sector. Her leadership and unwavering dedication have set a new standard of excellence and positioned the country as a global tourism destination. With her continued efforts and the support of organizations like the GTBA, the future of Philippine tourism looks bright.
Source: The Manila Times
