Davao gears up to host MICECON once again 2023

The MICECON 2023 returns to Davao City after a decade-long hiatus, showcasing the region’s unique cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse culinary offerings, and warm hospitality to the global audience. The SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier will host the event from March 1-3, 2023, with over 600 tourism and business events professionals attending.

MICECON 2023 is the largest gathering of Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) professionals in the Philippines, attracting a diverse mix of local and foreign delegates in the industry to learn about global business meeting trends, experience the stunning sceneries of the premier city of the south, and network with local and international MICE experts. The City Government of Davao, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, are collaborating to organize the event.

The rise of “bleisure,” the trend of combining business and leisure travel experiences, has been a significant development in the business meetings industry. Davao is a prime example of a bleisure destination with its diverse cultural and entertainment offerings. The city is home to 11 indigenous tribes, a growing expat population, pristine beaches, amazing dive spots, abundant flora and fauna, and quality produce, making it an ideal bleisure destination. Additionally, Davao is continuously growing its MICE capacity with more venues and accommodations for conventions, demonstrating the country’s best quality of hospitality, diversity, peace, and stability.

The MICECON places corporate social responsibility at its core. This year, the event will be held at the Philippine Eagle Center in Barangay Malagos, Davao City, where delegates will raise awareness of critically endangered species’ preservation. The sanctuary welcomes donations as it expands its care for more animal species and breeding of Philippine Eagles.

Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, the COO of TPB, emphasized the board’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and inspiring individuals to travel responsibly. The event is made possible with the support of several sponsors, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Abbott Laboratories, Hotel 101, Eudoo Technologies, Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., and Engkanto Brewery.

The conference promises delicious treats and entertainment activities courtesy of various sponsors, such as Villa Margarita, Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao, DOT Region XI, Agriya and Pearl Farm, Royal Mandaya Hotel, Acacia Hotel and Rogen Inn, Discovery Samal, the Mayor’s night by the City Government of Davao, SM Lanang Premier, Zegen Management Group, Davao Region Cacao Council & Annipie Bakery Cafe, Dusit D2 Hotel and Davao Region Coffee Council, and Maan’s Bakeshop and TPB for the Farewell Dinner.

Through MICECON 2023, Davao City is expected to reconnect with its tourism stakeholders, establish new connections, and position itself as a key MICE destination.