Philippine Ambassador Engages with the Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents
Philippine Ambassador to Jordan His Excellency Wilfredo C. Santos met with the Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents (JSTA) on 06 August 2024 at the JSTA office in Amman to strengthen the collaborative efforts between Jordan and the Philippines in the tourism sector.
Mr. Shaher Hamdan, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the JSTA, warmly welcomed Ambassador Santos and expressed his enthusiasm to discuss initiatives that would expand and foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting focused on exploring new opportunities for promoting two-way tourism, enhancing travel experiences, and fostering cultural exchanges between the Philippines and Jordan. Ambassador Santos highlighted the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Philippines and encouraged Jordanian travel agents to explore and promote the country as a premier travel destination. He also discussed that the Philippines has been recognized as an emerging Muslim-friendly destination, further citing the efforts of the Department of Tourism to develop the Philippines’ halal tourism industry. Among these measures are the launching of the “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign to establish the Philippines as a customer-focused, collaborative, comprehensive, and competitive Halal gateway and destination in the Asia-Pacific.
In return, Chairman Hamdan and other representatives from the JSTA shared insights about Jordan's historical landmarks, including Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, and other lesser-known but equally fascinating sites, inviting Filipino tourists to experience their unique offerings.
Both parties discussed potential collaborative projects, such as joint marketing campaigns by the respective Tourism Boards of both nations and connecting the JSTA with its counterpart in the Philippines. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing to continue their dialogue and work towards the bright future of Philippine-Jordanian tourism relations.
The JSTA was established in 1965 and boasts a membership pool of 710 travel agencies in Jordan. Recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, JSTA advocates for members' rights, collaborates with governmental bodies and stakeholders, and works towards improving the business environment and professional practices for travel agents.
Joining Ambassador Santos during the meeting were Second Secretary and Consul Angeli A. Payumo, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Sheila Marie Andales, and Cultural Officer Elijah Ang-Encarnacion. END
For more information, visit www.ammanpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHLinJordan/, or https://www.instagram.com/phinjordan/