By Lane Afable, News Editor
MUMBAI, INDIA–The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines successfully concluded the Philippines’ participation at the Outbound Travel Market (OTM) 2026, generating nearly Php 526 million in partial sales leads, a 273.91 percent increase from last year’s total sales leads.
Held at the Jio World Convention Center in Mumbai, India, the event solidified the Philippines’ standing as a top-of-mind destination for India’s rapidly growing outbound travel market. As one of the largest travel trade shows in India, OTM 2026 drew more than 50,000 visitors and 2,100 exhibitors, facilitating direct engagement across 60 participating countries.
The Philippine booth served as a premier showcase, earning the Best Design and Decoration Award. The space provided a dynamic setting for targeted B2B sessions between 18 Philippine seller companies and top-tier buyers from India’s metropolitan hubs.
Led by the TPB in partnership with the Department of Tourism, the Philippine delegation comprised hotels, resorts, tour operators, destination management companies, and a participating government agency.
The Philippine booth wins ‘Best Design and Decoration Award’ during OTM 2026
Through focused business exchanges, the delegation showcased the country’s expansive tourism catalog, including high-end weddings, luxury travel, corporate events, and MICE-ready infrastructure.
Discussions generated strong interest, supported by growing accessibility following the 14-day visa-free policy for Indian tourists and 30-day visa-free entry for those with American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore, or United Kingdom visa or permanent residence permit.
This streamlined entry is complemented by the enhanced air connectivity through daily direct New Delhi-Manila flights via Air India.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles applauded the strong results and emphasized the importance of sustained market development within the Indian travel trade.
“OTM 2026 has highlighted the value of building long-term partnerships and staying ahead of the evolving needs of Indian travelers,” she said.
“By leveraging enhanced connectivity and seamless travel, we can focus on delivering market-ready experiences that reflect the standards global travelers expect.”
B2B sessions between the Philippine delegation and key buyers
The success of this year’s participation at OTM 2026 reflects the country’s strategic alignment with the needs of Indian and South Asian travelers. TPB remains committed to building sustainable partnerships that position the Philippines as a world-class tourism destination and preferred partner for international travel trade.
