13/08/2026
Different sectors. Shared priorities. One collective commitment to a stronger, more collaborative, and future-ready Philippine tourism industry.
The Tourism Industry Board Foundation Inc. (TIBFI) held its Quarterly Board of Trustees Meeting last August 6, 2026, at Grand Westside Manila Bay, bringing together trustees and sector representatives to share developments, programs, emerging concerns, and priorities across the Philippine tourism and hospitality industry.
Presided over by TIBFI Chairman Dr. Mark Irvin C. Celis, the meeting provided an opportunity for each sector to bring its perspective to the table.
While the challenges and opportunities may differ, many priorities remain interconnected—from human capital and industry-academe collaboration to innovation, workforce readiness, sustainability, and stronger partnerships across the tourism value chain.
The gathering also became an especially meaningful occasion as TIBFI honored and congratulated Dr. Ma. Christina G. Aquino on her recent appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism - Philippines . A former President of TIBFI and mentor to many of its trustees and members, Dr. Aquino has been a longstanding advocate for strengthening the connection among government, academe, and industry. Her appointment is a well-deserved recognition of her years of leadership, expertise, and contribution to tourism and hospitality education and industry development.
There is still much work ahead, but every conversation, shared perspective, and partnership brings us closer to shaping a more competitive, inclusive, and future-ready Philippine tourism industry.
Our sincere appreciation to Grand Westside Hotel for graciously hosting and sponsoring the Board Meeting and for supporting TIBFI’s continuing efforts to bring the different sectors of tourism together.
M.I. Castillo Celis Divine Delos Reyes Jojo M. Villamin Minoll Alano Xiameer Xialeemar Beth Aragon Rumar Abaigar Marco Aristeo Jalandoni Gojol Harold Bernardo Bueno Cecilia Uncad Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines Association of Human Resources Managers Philippines NUWHRAIN-National Union of Workers in Hotel, Restaurant & Allied Industries PACEOS.Org Philippine Hotel Owners Association - PHOA PARTH - Philippine Association of Researchers for Tourism and Hospitality Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines - Cohrep Aahrmei UP Asian Institute of Tourism