VIA GRAPHIC PLUS | OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines (July 30, 2026) — The Western Philippines International Tourism Showcase (WPITS) 2026 officially opened at the SMX Convention Center Olongapo, bringing together tourism leaders, government officials, hospitality stakeholders, exhibitors, and industry partners to celebrate and promote the rich tourism offerings of Western Philippines.
Leading the opening ceremonies were Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr.; Ronnie De Rosario, Owner of La Jolla Hotel & Resort; Bollie Bolton, General Manager of La Jolla Hotel & Resort; Darwin Labayawdoy, General Manager of ibis Styles Subic and Mercure Hotel; Barney Lee, SBMA Deputy Administrator; Corazon Tan, Vice President of NITAS; Dr. Mina Gabor, Former Secretary of the Department of Tourism; Marites Castro, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism CALABARZON (Region IV-A); Catherine Agustin, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism National Capital Region; Jovita “Jovi” Ganongan, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Cordillera Administrative Region; Susan Santos de Cardenas, President and CEO of the International Alliance of Regenerative Tourism (IART); Jaemin Park, Managing Partner of Heal Venture Lab; Prof. Eddie Nuque, Visiting Fellow at the De La Salle University; Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance, Jerome Dela Fuente; Richard Daenos, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region III; and Jerome De la Fuente, Vice President-Limketkai Hotels & Resorts.
The opening day featured the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the launch of the tourism and trade exhibition, showcasing destinations, products, and services from across the country.
Our heartfelt appreciation to our generous major sponsors: PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro “Al” Tengco represented by Mr. Ricardo Banag, Branch Manager, Casino Filipino Olongapo; Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio; Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita “Marga” Nograles, Tourism Promotions Board.
WPITS 2026 continues until August 1, offering visitors opportunities to explore tourism exhibits, connect with industry stakeholders, and experience the diverse culture, heritage, and travel destinations of Western Philippines.
 2026 officially opened at the SMX Convention Center Olongapo, bringing together tourism leaders, government officials, hospitality stakeholders, exhibitors, and industry partners to celebrate and promote the rich tourism offerings of Western Philippines.){kind=link}