As travel surges back post-pandemic, the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) is bringing the sparkle of the Marianas to Manila’s premier Travel Sale Expo 2025. From September 26–28, the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall will host the ONEKLIK‑GTBA Travel Sale Expo, where GVB will spotlight Guam’s unique blend of Chamorro culture, American‑style hospitality, and idyllic tropical landscapes, capturing the hearts of Filipino travelers once more.
Reigniting Filipino Travel to Guam
Guam has long been a beloved destination for Philippine tourists due to its sun‑kissed beaches and cultural resonance. But despite this affinity, visitor numbers remain at just around 9,000 Filipinos in 2024, roughly 60 percent of pre‑COVID levels. With Manila–Guam flights adding more seats and schedules, GVB sees this expo as a crucial opportunity to revive interest and bookings.
Visa Access: A Potential Game Changer
One of Guam’s compelling offerings is the Guam–CNMI Visa Waiver Program, which allows nationals of 12 Pacific and Asian countries visa‑free entry for up to 45 days, bypassing the need for a U.S. visa. Filipinos, however, are not yet eligible—though efforts are underway to change that. In mid‑2025, Guam’s delegate to Congress petitioned U.S. authorities to include the Philippines in the waiver program, aiming to build deeper cultural and tourism ties.
Currently, Filipino travelers must present a valid U.S. visa or green card to enter Guam. In contrast, visa waiver participants complete an electronic G‑CNMI ETA and present a machine‑readable passport and return ticket.
What to Expect at the Travel Sale Expo 2025
Themed “Your Gateway to the World,” this third edition of the Expo unites over 200 exhibitors—airlines, hotels, tour operators, and cruise lines—in one venue. Organized by ONEKLIK Events and the Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA), the event pledges exclusive travel deals, curated tour packages, and up-to-date travel requirement info.
At the GVB booth, visitors can explore specially priced Guam packages—covering everything from upscale beacheside resorts to immersive cultural tours—and gather helpful tips on what to expect when traveling to the island.
Strengthening Ties Through Collaboration
The partnership between GVB, GTBA, and ONEKLIK Events is formalized through an agreement signed by key officials, including GTBA Chair Michelle Taylan and GVB Philippines Sales Manager Philip Gejon, along with other representatives. This collaboration highlights a shared vision to elevate Guam’s profile among Filipino travellers.
GTBA chair Michelle Taylan calls Guam a “hidden gem,” pointing to its blend of pristine natural beauty, Chamorro traditions, and U.S.-style infrastructure as key attractions. She emphasized the expo as a pivotal platform to reignite inbound travel from the Philippines.
Why Guam Appeals to Filipino Tourists
Guam appeals on multiple levels:
- Cultural Affinity: Chamorro traditions resonate with Filipino visitors.
- Modern Comforts: U.S.-style amenities and infrastructure offer familiarity and convenience.
- Accessible Destination: Post-pandemic flight connectivity and potential visa reforms make it more reachable.
Adding to the appeal, GVB has rolled out digital customs and entry tools that streamline arrival and departure. The Guam Electronic Declaration Form (EDF) enables contactless customs processing, improving travel convenience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Philippines-Guam Travel
Guam’s active presence at Expo 2025 signals renewed confidence in rebuilding tourism ties with the Philippines. If the visa waiver push proves successful, it could mark a landmark development—making Guam one of the easiest overseas escapes for Filipino travellers.
The combination of promotional outreach, user-friendly travel processes, and enticing deals aims to drive Guam back to—if not beyond—its pre-pandemic tourism highs.
Final Invitation
For Filipino adventure seekers, Travel Sale Expo 2025 in Manila is your front-row ticket to discover Guam: a tropical haven of white-sand beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming hospitality. Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic getaway, or cultural escape, the island invites you to let go of the ordinary and say “yes” to Pacific paradise. Don’t miss the chance to explore, compare, and book your dream island stay—with Guam ready to welcome you.
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