Representing Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, described the evening as a reflection of public-private collaboration, citing the co-hosting of the dinner by the DOT and the US-ABC as a model of partnership essential to the tourism industry. She emphasized that cooperation between government and the private sector remains imperative across destinations worldwide.

“The relationship between the U.S.–ASEAN Business Council and ASEAN has always been one of mutual respect and shared growth. This evening serves as a testament to the potential we can unlock through renewed and invigorated partnerships,” the Chair of the Philippine National Tourism Organization added.

One of the highlights of the welcome dinner was a fireside chat featuring Tourism Undersecretaries Maria Rica Bueno and Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, together with hotel industry leaders and tourism ministry representatives, on key issues facing the tourism sector.