Papua New Guinea Showcased at Major Travel Expo in the Philippines

Papua New Guinea Showcased at Travel Madness Expo 2026

Papua New Guinea’s distinctive culture, natural beauty and adventure experiences were showcased to thousands of travellers and tourism industry representatives at the Travel Madness Expo 2026 in Manila, Philippines.

Held from 10–12 July at the SMX Convention Center, the three-day event brought together airlines, tourism organisations, travel agencies, hotels and tour operators from around the world.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) participated alongside Air Niugini and Karanas Comfort Tours, a PNG tour operator, to strengthen awareness of the country as a unique travel destination and expand its presence within the growing Asian tourism market.

Throughout the expo, visitors to the Papua New Guinea booth learned about the country’s rich cultural heritage, pristine natural environments, world-class diving, trekking, birdwatching and other authentic visitor experiences. Representatives from PNGTPA, Air Niugini and Karanas Comfort Tours engaged directly with visitors, providing information on destinations, air services, tour packages and travel experiences available across Papua New Guinea.

PNGTPA Executive Manager for Marketing and Promotions, Mr Joel Keimelo, said the expo provided an important opportunity to present Papua New Guinea directly to travellers and tourism partners in the Philippines.

“Papua New Guinea offers experiences that are genuinely distinctive—from our extraordinary cultures and landscapes to our diving, trekking, birdwatching and community-based tourism experiences. Our participation in the Travel Madness Expo allows us to share these stories directly with the Asian market and build stronger relationships with travellers and industry partners who are looking for authentic and meaningful destinations,” Mr Keimelo said.

The participation of Karanas Comfort Tours provided visitors with direct access to a locally based tourism operator, helping connect destination promotion with practical information about tours and travel experiences within Papua New Guinea.

Adding colour and energy to PNG’s presence was the Galomarubu Kitoro Cultural Group from Central Province, whose performances captivated audiences on the expo’s main stage and at the PNG booth.

Their traditional dances attracted enthusiastic crowds, with visitors gathering to take photographs and learn more about the country’s diverse cultures and traditions.

The expo’s official opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Papua New Guinea’s Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Stephen Pokanis, and Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia, Mr Joshua Koh, together with other dignitaries and tourism industry leaders.

Mr Koh said participation in major tourism events throughout Asia was critical to building destination awareness and generating interest in travel to Papua New Guinea.

“Asia continues to be an important growth market for both Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea. Events such as the Travel Madness Expo provide valuable opportunities to engage directly with travellers, travel agents and industry partners, helping us tell Papua New Guinea’s story and showcase the incredible experiences available in our country,” Mr Koh said.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Milne, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting the growth of PNG’s tourism industry and strengthening connectivity with important international markets.

“Tourism is an important contributor to economic growth and employment in Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini is proud to work alongside the PNGTPA and our tourism industry partners to position the country as a must-visit destination,” Mr Milne said.

Following the Travel Madness Expo, Air Niugini and PNGTPA will continue promoting Papua New Guinea in Asia, with travel trade and consumer events scheduled for Singapore in August and Hong Kong in September.

These activities form part of continuing efforts to strengthen international tourism partnerships, increase destination awareness and encourage more travellers to experience Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary culture, nature, adventure and hospitality.◼️