Monday, February 19, 2024
The PATA International Conference on Women in Travel, scheduled for March 20-22, 2024, is being arranged by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) in collaboration with the Philippines’ Department of Tourism.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid emphasized the critical nature of fostering gender equality within the travel and tourism industry for its ethical and sustainable growth. He highlighted the discrepancy in recognition and support for women, who constitute nearly half of the workforce in the Asia Pacific’s tourism sector. The conference is designed to initiate impactful conversations and innovative approaches for women’s empowerment in the industry, demonstrating the vital link between women’s success and the sector’s prosperity, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.
This three-day event will bring together key figures in the industry to discuss the essential role of women and examine the current landscape of gender diversity within tourism. It aims to reveal efforts and strategies for advancing equality and empowerment, including overcoming obstacles, endorsing sustainability through women’s leadership, and enhancing women’s roles in leadership positions. The conference will celebrate the contributions of women to the industry and address the issue of gender imbalances, such as the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco warmly welcomed the conference to the Philippines, aligning it with the country’s goals of fostering diversity and empowering women in the sector. She pointed out tourism’s potential to not only enhance destinations but also empower women, with the conference serving as a platform to demonstrate the nation’s commitment to advancing women’s roles in society, from supporting local businesses to promoting gender equality in education.
Secretary Frasco also mentioned Bohol as the picturesque venue for the conference, noting its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities as the perfect setting for discussions on women’s impact in the industry. Bohol is celebrated for its natural beauty, from the Chocolate Hills to the Loboc River, and offers diverse attractions including wildlife sanctuaries, marine adventures, and historical sites. Furthermore, Bohol stands as a testament to women’s empowerment, with initiatives supporting female entrepreneurship and gender equality, making it an exemplary location for such a significant event.
The conference, supported by PATA and hosted by the Philippines’ Department of Tourism, encourages participation by waiving registration fees, with only the costs for travel to Bohol and accommodation being charged.
Additionally, PATA is proud to announce that the conference will be a carbon-neutral event, emphasizing the association’s commitment to sustainable travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific. A nominal fee of USD 10 for carbon offsetting will be charged to each attendee, in collaboration with a local environmental project aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon absorption in the Philippines, reinforcing PATA’s dedication to environmental stewardship.
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