TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite (PIA) – Recognizing the importance of the tourism industry in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses, a group of travel operators in Calabarzon region has come together to help revive the industry from the blows of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Calabarzon Alliance of Independent Tour Operators, Inc. (CAITO) was established in March 2020 with just seven members. Its goal is to centralize government programs and initiatives to support its members as they work towards restarting and revitalizing the region’s tourism industry.

"The travel agency business in Region IV-A has faced immense challenges, with many agencies forced to close. However, Caito has persisted in its efforts to help and support fellow travel agencies," said Lorilyn Tepora, the group’s founding president and chairman.

To further assist and guide travel operators, Caito recently launched the Calabarzon Tourism Business Exchange (CTBEx) at the Summit Ridge in Tagaytay City, Cavite.

The event brought together government, private, and market sectors with the aim of revitalizing and reintroducing Calabarzon as a leading tourism destination in the Philippines, in line with the Department of Tourism's #LoveCalabarzon and #LoveThePhilippines campaigns.

The CTBEx attracted 85 tourism stakeholders and 280 travel agencies from Region IV-A, along with Provincial and Local Tourism Offices, which showcased their hospitality services and locally-made products.

"This is just the beginning of what we hope to achieve. We plan to have an annual CTBEx in a larger venue to accommodate more tourism stakeholders. We also aim to have more sellers and buyers participating," Tepora added.

In addition to the CTBEx, Caito intends to organize more training, activities, and seminars in collaboration with the DOT and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB). These initiatives will equip their members with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote the tourism industry not only in Calabarzon but also nationwide. (CO/PIA-4A)