Overview:
In 2020, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) in partnership with BBC Global News launched the Destination Insight Series in response to the outbreak of COVID-19. The webinar series takes a close look at various destinations around the Asia Pacific region and examines how they have been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and preparing towards recovery. The panel discussion will provide a 360° perspective of each destinations’ on-ground activities and preparations from operations to marketing and communications.
The next episode will explore the warmth of Micronesia and experience some of the world's most breathtaking destinations. Micronesia is a spellbinding world abounding with warm caressing breezes, captivatingly rich culture and exotic adventure all dancing around in unison under the thick golden rays of an arching tropical sun. The mysterious, the magical and the modern sides of life all lie within easy reach for the welcomed visitor, just like a swollen ripe mango dropping from a mango tree into a waiting hand. Together with Guam, Micronesia comprises of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau, with each different island chain offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Speakers
Gerald Perez, Vice President, Guam Visitors Bureau
Born and raised on Guam, graduate of Fr. Duenas Memorial School, married to Karri Trahin of Radford, Virginia, and between them have six children. Enjoys the performing arts, jogging, reading, travel and scuba diving. University of Idaho graduate in Forestry (BS) and Wildlife Management (MS) with honors in Phi Sigma, Xi Sigma Pi and fellowships (or scholarships) from John Hay Whitney Foundation (New York), Wildlife Management Institute (Washington, D.C.), GovGuam, and YMLG. University of Alaska Fairbanks (PhD), Tourism Development and Public Policy. Read More
Ngirai Tmetuchl, Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development, Palau
Mr. Ngirabelas Tmetuchl was appointed as Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development in May 2021. Since taking the helm of this integrated yet broad scope ministry, Minister Tmetuchl’s focus is on managing the needs of the Republic and sustaining its primary economic pillar of tourism, with human resources serving as the backbone of Palau’s economy and its enduring and rich cultural heritage as the bedrock and guiding force in fostering sustainable development moving forward. Read More
Petero Manufolau, CEO, Tourism Authority of Kiribati
Petero Manufolau is the Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK). He is part of a team that is responsible for the sustainable development and promotion of tourism for Kiribati. Prior to joining TAK, Petero held senior management positions in both private and regional tourism organisations specializing in resort and destination marketing, with a passion for tourism SME promotion and sustainable tourism development. Read More
Jamie Chambers, Vice President, Advertising & Distribution, ANZ, BBC Global News
As VP for BBC Global News in ANZ, I manage commercial development of our broadcast and digital news services across advertising and distribution sales. With over 15 years‘ experience working for major news publishers in the UK and Australia, my particular expertise lies in the role and value quality news environments can bring to brands looking to reach diverse audiences. Read More
Liz Ortiguera, CEO, PATA
Liz Ortiguera is a senior executive with over 25 years of global experience and expertise in general management, marketing, business development, and partner network management. Liz is passionate about innovation, business transformation, and community building. Her career spans several industries - travel/lifestyle, technology, financial services, and pharmaceuticals. Read More
Moderators
Paul Pruangkarn, Director – Communications & External Affairs, PATA
Paul Pruangkarn is the Director – Communications & External Affairs at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. In his role, he oversees day-to-day operations of all communications and public relations, and serves as the senior spokesperson for the Association. Read More
Santosh Kumar, Director of Business Development (Consultant), PATA
With over a decade of leadership experience in the travel industry, has joined PATA as Director of Business Development (Consultant) to support operations in the Membership Department. He has taken on several consulting assignments recently. Previously, he was the Managing Director at HRS India. He joined the company at its inception and in a short period of 4 years, grew it into a leading travel technology company in the region. Read More