The Philippines made its foray into the global tourism investment scene, joining the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from Oct. 27 to 29, 2025. The debut, led by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, aims to establish the country as a top destination in Asia for hotel and resort development.
The move is part of a broader strategy to place the Philippines on international platforms that attract industry partners, according to TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.
“This debut shows that the Philippines is ready to compete for quality hospitality investments and TPB is committed to promoting the opportunities, destinations and developments that will shape the future of our tourism industry,” said Nograles.
FHS World 2025 is a key gathering for hotel owners, operators, developers and investors, attracting delegates from more than 60 countries and over 650 companies this year.
The Philippine delegation sought to highlight the country’s potential through key engagements, including a Destination Overview Session titled “Beyond Paradise: Discovering the Investment Potential of the Philippines.”
Discussions focused on new opportunities such as the rise of integrated leisure destinations, enhancements to regional airports and growing demand for sustainable and culturally anchored developments.
A private workshop, “The Philippines Advantage: Private Insights for Strategic Investors,” was held for international investors. Supported by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), the exclusive session provided a detailed review of future development sites and market fundamentals.
The country’s presence featured a national space designed with Filipino aesthetics, including solihiya and capiz details.
High-level government and private sector representatives anchored the country’s participation. Representing the TPB were Special Envoy for Arts and Culture Karen Santos and Special Envoy for Trade and Investment Anna Kathryna Yu-Pimentel.
They were welcomed on opening day by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver, Consul Aleah Marie Gica and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Trade Commissioner in Dubai Vichael Roaring.
The private sector was represented by four major developers: Ayala Land Hospitality, Artstream Hospitality Management Group, Megaworld Hotels and Resorts and Robinsons Hotels and Resorts. Their participation underscored the increasing number of new hotel and resort developments in key Philippine destinations.
