Iloilo City prepares to host 3 national conventions
The Iloilo City government is preparing guidelines that will improve its hosting of three national conventions this month and in the first quarter of next year.
The events include the 65th Annual National Convention of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants on November 23 to 26; the 1st Visayas Blogging Summit 2010 on November 27 to 28; and the national conference of the Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine on February 17 to 20.
City Tourism and Development Office (CTDO) chief Benito Jimena said his office is looking into the guidelines concerning tourist buses entering the city to ensure the smooth transport requirements of the delegates.
He advised travel agents to coordinate with CTDO regarding permits.
“We actually would like to strengthen the guidelines, endorse it to the City Council later on in order that the traffic regulation concerning tourist buses entering the city will be properly institutionalized,” Jimena said.
Jimena is upbeat about the forthcoming events because “these will mean more visitors for the city.”
“They will spend money here which will result to more sales for our local businessmen,” he added.
Jimena said Iloilo City’s record in hosting meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibits is improving.
He said statistics would show that more visitors are coming to the city resulting to increase in tourist arrivals.
“By word of mouth, these visitors can really help promote our city,” Jimena said.*