A TRAVEL AND TRADE EXPO SHOWCASES THE REGION’S ABUNDANT RESOURCES AND ATTRACTIONS
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 12 recently concluded its “6th Treasures of
SOX: A Travel and Trade Expo” at the Midtown Atrium of Robinsons Place Manila in
Ermita, Manila. The three-day event, which ran from June 7-9, 2024, aimed to
showcase the best of the SOCCSKSARGEN region, comprising South Cotabato,
Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos.
The event featured a wide range of products and services from the region, including
Tnalak clothing and bags, brass accessories crafted by the Tboli of Lake Sebu, sweet
pomelos freshly harvested from Cotabato province, and premium Robusta coffee from
Sultan Kudarat. All four provinces and four cities in the region participated in the event
to present their tourism products to the public.
According to DOT-12 Director Nelia Arina, the event is not only a travel show but also
an opportunity to showcase the region’s treasures, including its abundant resources,
skilled people, and growing economy. “This expo is one way to promote the region’s
unique attractions and experiences, such as the white sand beaches of Sarangani and
the cultural experience of Lake Sebu,” she said.
The event also featured a fashion show titled “Fabrics of SOX,” showcasing the designs
of local designer Jearson Demavivas. Additionally, an investment forum was held to
attract investors to the region. The event included B2B matching sessions to facilitate
business partnerships between local businesses and investors.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco reiterated that SOCCSKSARGEN is open to both
international and local tourists from other regions. “We are ready in terms of security
and infrastructure,” she said. However, she noted that some areas in the region still
require assistance in terms of road network development.
The Treasures of SOX Expo is an annual event that aims to promote tourism in the
SOCCSKSARGEN region. The event has become a significant platform for local
businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to a wider
audience. As the Treasures of SOX Expo comes to a close, it is clear that the
SOCCSKSARGEN region has much to offer visitors. From its stunning natural beauty to
its rich cultural heritage and economic opportunities, this region is poised for growth and
development. With events like this expo, it is hoped that more tourists will come tozz
experience all that SOCCSKSARGEN has to offer, ultimately contributing to the region’s
economic prosperity and cultural preservation.
