THE Department of Tourism hosted the 48th Meeting of Asean Plus Three National Tourism Organizations in Cebu City on Tuesday, gathering officials from Asean member states and representatives from China, Japan, and South Korea.
Asean Plus Three (APT) is a regional cooperation framework established in 1997 that brings together the 10 member states of Asean and three Northeast Asian partners: China, Japan, and South Korea. Originally formed in response to the 1997 Asian financial crisis, the grouping has evolved into a cornerstone of East Asian regionalism, focusing on economic integration, financial stability, and nontraditional security issues like public health and food security.
“Our partnership between and among Asean, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea is not just a collaboration,” said Tourism Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, who presided over the forum as head of the Philippine National Tourism Organization. “It is a vital alliance that highlights the profound role of tourism as a catalyst for unity and mutual prosperity.” Buensuceso described tourism as a bridge that connects diverse cultures and stimulates economic growth among countries.
Japan Tourism Agency Deputy Commissioner Hironobu Nara reaffirmed his country’s commitment to collaborate closely with Asean nations. He also extended condolences to those affected by recent disasters, including landslides in Indonesia’s West Java province on Jan. 24 that killed 35 people, and the Binaliw landfill collapse in Cebu City on Jan. 8 that left 36 dead.
Also in attendance were Jang Youhyun, director of the Korea Tourism Organization’s International Cooperation Team, and Huang Yaping, cultural counselor of the Chinese embassy.
The meeting serves as a prelude to the Asean Tourism Forum held in Cebu from Jan. 28 to 30.
