PNG wins top tourism honour at Manila travel expo

Papua New Guinea has claimed a major tourism award after its national exhibition booth was named Best Booth in the National Tourism Organisation (NTO) category at the 2026 Travel Madness Expo in Manila, Philippines.

The three-day event, held from July 10 to 12, brought together hundreds of tourism businesses from across Asia, with PNG standing out for its colourful display of the country's culture, landscapes and visitor experiences.

 PNG wins top tourism honour at Manila travel expo

The recognition was awarded to Papua New Guinea's exhibition, which highlighted the nation's cultural diversity, natural attractions and tourism products before thousands of visitors attending one of Asia's biggest consumer travel exhibitions.

More than 170 national tourism organisations, airlines, hotels, resorts and travel agencies from the Philippines and other Asian countries participated in the annual expo.

PNG was represented by Air Niugini and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), with support from tourism operators and hospitality partners including Kokopo Beach Bungalow, Karanas Tours, Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, Alibi Bar & Grill, Akura, Daikoku Japanese Restaurant, Cuppa Cafe, Asia Aromas and PNG Coffee.

The team promoted the country's diving destinations, birdwatching sites, trekking adventures, cultural festivals, island escapes, coffee, traditional artefacts and authentic tourism experiences.

Travel Madness Expo provides tourism organisations and travel businesses with an opportunity to promote destinations, launch travel packages, strengthen industry partnerships and attract overseas travellers.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the award reflected the strong cooperation between the national airline, PNGTPA and the country's tourism industry.

"This recognition is a wonderful achievement for Papua New Guinea. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when the national airline, PNGTPA and our tourism operators work together to showcase our country as a vibrant, welcoming and authentic destination."

"International travel exhibitions remain an important platform for building relationships with travel partners, increasing destination awareness and encouraging more visitors to experience Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini is proud to support tourism growth by improving connectivity and promoting our country across our international network."

Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia Joshua Koh, who coordinated the airline's participation alongside PNGTPA and industry partners, said the award came as an unexpected bonus.

"We came to Manila with one objective—to promote Papua New Guinea as a destination and support our tourism industry. Winning the Best Booth Award was something we never expected, making this recognition even more special."

"This award belongs to everyone who contributed to the Papua New Guinea stand, including PNGTPA, our tourism operators, hotel partners and the Air Niugini team. It shows that by working together, we can stand alongside much larger destinations and leave a lasting impression."