Tacloban City (February 13) -- Eastern Visayas is joining the DOT-endorsed 2nd Davao International Travel Show 2008 which is scheduled for February 22-24, 2008 at the Entertainment Plaza of SM City Davao, DOT Region 8 Director Karina Rosa Tiopes disclosed.

Director Tiopes said that the City of Baybay, the City of Borongan, the City of Tacloban and the province of Leyte, have already confirmed their participation in the 2nd International Travel, Tours, Leisure and Lifestyle Exhibition 2008.

On the side of the private sector, Director Tiopes informed that the Leyte Gulf Travel and Tours and the Leyte First Travel Agency Philippines, Inc. have already agreed to participate in the Davao activity.

In fact, Director Tiopes said, the Department of Tourism Region 8 has already made the booth design for the Eastern Visayas participants to the Davao Travel Show 2008. The booths will showcase authentic Eastern Visayas delicate designs using raw materials which abound in the Region.

Director Tiopes said Region 8 is participating in the Davao Travel Show 2008 because it is a venue to interface and build relationship with customers and regional buyers, which is very important for a Region that needs promotions in order to boost its tourism industry.

Selling directly to almost all the customers is a big boost to the tourism industry of Eastern Visayas, Director Tiopes added. Besides, it is a good venue to reach new prospects that have not been approached in the past and to educate customers on the quality and benefits of the tourism products in the Region.

Since the focal point of Davao's economy is based on a strong hold on inward investments and fast expanding exports, its most competitive position in attracting private investments and in penetrating foreign market are the basic considerations why Davao City is the site of the upcoming Davao Travel Show.