THE Philippines was given the "Most Active Participation" award at the recent 13th Otdykh-Leisure Travel Fair and 2nd Luxury Leisure Moscow Expo. Event organizers acknowledged the dynamic collaboration of the Department of Tourism and its private sector partners in promoting the country's various destinations.

The kiping-festooned Philippine pavilion featured leading nature, adventure and cultural attractions. DOT partner tour operators, airlines, hotels and resorts presented their services and conducted tabletop discussions with their international counterparts for future promotional activities. Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company regaled guests with songs and dances. The booth was also fitted with a mini-bar where visitors were treated to several Filipino snacks and refreshments. Guests also had the option of taking a breather by having a quick hilot or massage session.

The Otdykh-Leisure Travel Fair is recognized as one of the major international tourism expositions in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with more than 68 countries taking part in the annual event. Meanwhile, the Luxury Leisure Moscow Fair is Russia's biggest international exhibit focusing on the luxury travel industry, which is an emerging market in the region. It draws more than 65 high-end enterprises from about 18 countries, and is visited by an estimated 6,800 luxury travelers.