If you ask our local tourism stakeholders which segment of the tourist market they would like to have, I’m sure they’ll choose MICE, the acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions.
Everybody runs after this segment because it is very lucrative. When somebody travels for MICE purposes, chances are the person’s expenses abroad are shouldered by the company he works for or by the organization he belongs to. This means, more often than not, that his choices for the various components of his trip are the more expensive ones – Business Class flights, de luxe hotel accommodations, meals in expensive restaurants, etc.
This is why every country in the world spends more on advertising, geared towards potential MICE travelers. Here in Asia, Thailand has the biggest share of the MICE business, thanks to its having the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau that was established by royal decree solely to promote the country as the main destination for MICE.
Although our Tourism Promotions Board is doing great in winning bids for major international events to be held here in the Philippines, maybe we could even have more MICE bookings if we can have a similar agency as that of Thailand, which focuses only on continuously getting MICE business for our industry’s coffers.
As for domestic tourists, our country’s big cities also vie for MICE business, depending on the type of venues they can offer the delegates.
Bustling Clark in Pampanga is now in a frenzy of preparations to host the highly anticipated MICE Conference (MICECon) 2024. MICECon will bring together from July 10 to 12 next year MICE professionals from all over the country.
At colorful and elaborate launching ceremonies the other day, host Clark Development Corporation succeeded in delivering the message that a fun, exciting, and colorful three days are waiting for friends and visitors who are interested to be updated with the latest in MICE business.
SMX Clark will be the main venue with over 4,000 sqm. of MICE space – three halls, three function rooms, and 14 meeting rooms, that can cater to over 1,000 expected attendees. This event will be a collaboration with Park Inn by Radisson Clark and SM City Clark as well as the nearby hotels and key locators of the city.
Strategically located within the SM City Clark Complex, Park Inn by Radisson Clark is 11.3 km from Clark International Airport (CRK) and centrally located near major tourist attractions, and historical landmarks. It is directly linked to SMX Clark and boasts of 254 rooms, three meeting rooms, and two dining restaurants.
During the press conference held after the launch ceremonies, Mike Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center said “We at SMX Convention Center Clark are very privileged to be part of this event in 2024, that will ultimately inspire transformative change in the MICE industry. We are looking forward to being part of this success and forging connections with every one of you as we embark on this journey to MICECon 2024.”
In addition to shaping the MICE landscape and networking opportunities, the attendees will have the chance to experience the unique charm of Clark. From its vibrant culinary scene to its breathtaking natural landscapes, Clark offers an array of leisure activities that make it an ideal destination for both business and pleasure.
For the younger set looking for new and exciting things to do, there is the popular Clark International Speedway or CIS, a motorsport venue, with a Grade 4 accreditation level from the FIA. This 4189-kilometer circuit features 18 turns and runs in a counter-clockwise direction.
More information on MICECon 2024 is available at www.tpb.gov.ph
YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE:
IN THE HOME FOR THE AGED:
After finishing their Chinese dinner, the couple opened their Fortune Cookies. The wife’s read, “Stay quiet and relish the delicious food you just ate.” The husband’s read, “Talk now while you have a chance!”
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com
