WTA Attends PATA International Conference on Women in Travel

From March 20 to 22, 2024, the PATA International Conference on Women in Travel, hosted by the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, took place in Bohol. This event marked a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and empowerment within the tourism sector. Esteemed speakers, including Tourism Secretary of the Republic of the Philippines, H.E. Christina Garcia Frasco, Undersecretary, Legal and Special Concerns and Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary and Chairperson, Gender and Development Focal Point System of the Department of Tourism, Atty. Mae Elaine T. Bathan, and CEO of PATA, Noor Ahmad Hamid, graced the event with their presence and insightful speeches.

The conference, attended by delegates from the World Tourism Alliance (WTA), focused on the critical role women play in the tourism industry, the current state of gender diversity, and strategies for advancing women’s progress and gender equality. Key topics discussed included overcoming barriers to women’s empowerment in the sector, fostering sustainability through women as agents of change, and enhancing women’s leadership capabilities. Panels highlighted projects led by female entrepreneurs that encourage youth innovation and entrepreneurship. These projects have a significant sustainable impact on the tourism industry across the Asia-Pacific region, demonstrating the vital contributions of women to the sector’s growth and resilience.