Manila, Jan. 28 -- The three-day Association of Southeast Asian Nations Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) formally opened in Cebu on Wednesday, gathering more than 600 foreign and local tourism stakeholders.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Wednesday said a total of 271 buyers from 50 countries across the globe, as well as 124 Philippine sellers and 222 exhibitors from Southeast Asia, participated in the anticipated ASEAN travel trade event.

"[M]agbibigay ito ng livelihood and sales sa ating local tourism industry, kaya nagpapasalamat tayo sa oportunidad na ito para mag-host ng ASEAN Tourism Forum (This would also bring livelihood and sales for our local tourism industry, which is why we are thankful for the opportunity to host the ASEAN Touri...