I will narrate a story.

There was a delegate named Anna in the hectic conference and incentive industry. She was at her 3rd MICE event that quarter. She had collected lanyards like trophies, endured speed-networking sessions that were akin to Olympic sprinting, and mastered the art of lunch-munching while typing out responses to emails in a plenary session.

And then there was the conference that altered her fate—a conference held not in a 5-star city hotel, but in a quiet seaside town. No gargantuan LED screens. No mad dash to the buffet table. Just clean sea air, a refreshing welcome beverage concocted from a fruit she couldn't even name, and sessions that began after sunrise yoga.

And surprise, surprise.

She remembered each second.

Welcome to the era of Slow MICE Tourism.

It is not about doing less.

It's about doing it more meaningfully.

• Rather than packing 10 activities into a busy day, it's about experiencing one sunset with fellow delegates.
• Rather than generic hotel food, you're eating with a local chef who informs you where your food originated.
• Rather than big cities, it's small towns with a history, where every corner has a tale and every welcoming smile is part of the journey.

Why is this movement growing larger?

Because we're tired.

Burnout is not something to be proud of.

Because conferences don't have to be headcounts and hashtags—they can heal, inspire, and actually connect.

And honestly, no one ever recalls the carpet in the hotel ballroom.

But you'll remember the time your team gelled as you planted mangroves during a MICE immersion session—or the time you closed a deal after hiking with your client to a breathtaking view deck.

Slow MICE Tourism is here to stay.

It's a rebellion against the "rushed and forgettable.

It's a call for events that breathe.

To all those event planners and DMCs, perhaps the future of Unforgettable MICE is not making it big but making it good, with purpose, with passion, and with adequate time to simply enjoy it.

Then the following time you're questioned, "How was the meeting?

I wish your reply would be anything but "Tiring but okay."

Let it sound like:

"Enchanted. We learned. We laughed. We connected. And for the first time, I actually recall the name of the keynote speaker." 

Your turn: Would you visit a Slow MICE event? Or rather, design one? 

Tag someone who needs to see this—and let them know: The events of the future aren't quick. They're significant. 

Under the crisp morning sky and the lush fairways of South Forbes Golf Club, the SOLABC Golf Tournament 2025 teed off with style and purpose, drawing together business leaders, golf enthusiasts, and community advocates for a day of friendly competition and meaningful connections.

The tournament, held on April 23, 2025, was hailed as a massive success by participants and organizers alike. It was spearheaded by the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (LCCI) as part of its continuous efforts to strengthen ties among local businesses and support regional economic development. Exlink Management and Marketing Services Corp., known for its seamless coordination and dynamic approach to corporate events, expertly managed the event.

“We envisioned SOLABC as more than just a golf event—it’s a platform to bring together leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders who believe in collaboration, excellence, and giving back to the community,” said Mr. Mark Caluag, SOLABC Golf Tournament Chairman. “The overwhelming turnout and energy we witnessed today are a testament to the strength of our business community.”

With over ninety golfers from different industries participating, the tournament showcased impressive athleticism and sportsmanship and served as a powerful networking arena. The event format encouraged both seasoned and casual golfers to engage and connect, teeing up future business opportunities and partnerships.

Aside from the competition, the tournament featured exciting hole-in-one prizes, raffle draws, and a short awards program, where standout players were recognized for their exceptional performance on the green. A sumptuous lunch added to the day’s festivities, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie.

Behind the scenes, Exlinkevents brought their trademark professionalism to the fore—handling everything from registration to logistics, ensuring a world-class experience for everyone involved. “Our goal is to always create moments that matter,” said Mitch Ballesteros, CEO of Exlink Management and Marketing Services Corp. “Today was proof that with the right partnership, vision, and execution, anything is possible.”

The SOLABC Golf Tournament 2025 marks another milestone for both the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Exlinkevents, reinforcing their shared commitment to empowering local businesses and building lasting relationships through high-impact events.

As the sun set over South Forbes, one thing was clear: this tournament wasn't just a game—it was a celebration of unity, success, and the power of coming together with a shared goal. Plans are already underway for next year’s edition, and if 2025 is any indication, it’s only going to get bigger and better.

With the growing demand for certified marketing professionals 

in today's competitive business world, the RMP Review offers graduating students and career professionals an essential advantage: certification, credibility, and confidence.

Success Institute Philippines has assisted thousands of young professionals, marketing graduates, and even career changers 

to apply their learning to real-life practice, refine their business sense, and finally ace the RMP Certification Exam. With its sterling reputation and roster of successful, industry-experienced mentors, the center has become one of the top RMP Review providers in the Philippines.

"Marketing is no longer about selling products. It's about strategy, creativity, data, and knowing how people behave at a very deep level. The RMP Review gives you a good 

foundation for that," explained Prof. Orly Ballesteros, 

lead mentor and one of the top marketing trainers in the country. "We don't only educate regarding concepts—we train students to think like actual marketers."

The batch  this year will be subjected to a thorough 

and focused learning process in the fields of strategic marketing planning, branding, digital marketing, services marketing, and sales management, all according to 

RMP certification standards. 

The candidates will also be subjected to mock tests, group discussions, and live case studies to make them thoroughly 

prepared not only to pass but to excel in their professional lives.

The program serves graduating marketing students, 

new graduates, working professionals, and entrepreneurs who wish to upgrade their marketing knowledge, credentials, and career opportunities. With online, the review is made accessible to all learners.

The RMP certification itself is a much-coveted credential that is accepted by local businesses and multinationals. To most, it is a gateway to promotions, new career opportunities, and improved career placement in business development and marketing.

Pre-registration for the June 7 batch is also available now, and the seats are filling up very rapidly. 

Marketing graduate and top 2 RMP passer this 2024, Jobeille Tabeiros said, "I am very thankful to Success Institute and my instructor, Sir Orly, for all the knowledge and guidance during the review sessions. 

The review sessions were valuable because they helped me practice how to properly answer the questions, and understand key marketing frameworks. The review materials were comprehensive and easy to follow, and the support throughout the review sessions made a big difference in my learning journey.

I highly recommend Success Institute to anyone serious about taking their marketing career to the next level."

As businesses continue to grow and marketing becomes increasingly vital to business success, the RMP Review by Success Institute Philippines provides not just a review—but a transformation.

For concerns, visit Success Institute Philippines' website or message them directly through Facebook or Instagram.

Are you ready to become a Registered Marketing Professional? 

Start now. Sign up now and take your career to the next level in 2025.

"Nasa venue na si Mayor. pero wala pang emcee!"

If you've ever had a conference or convention here, you've likely witnessed this phenomenon:

The tarpaulins are up. The LED wall is functioning (temporarily). The buffet is set.

Your event t-shirt is soaked with sweat — from hard work, not the heat.

People are beginning to come. Then your aide whispers quietly:

"Mayor is here… but the emcee is not here yet." 

Feel a sudden panic, call your host as fast as possible 

(who does not answer nonetheless), and murmur a secret 

prayer to the Sto. Niño.

Welcome to the exciting world of conferences and expos in the Philippines — where each successful event is a delightful surprise packed with creativity, hard work, and contingency measures from B to Z.

Let's break down the 7 primary elements that make these things happen — the kind of lessons that you don't get in school but learn in the midst of the moment (literally).

1. Event Concept & Objectives: May Silbi ba 'to?

First question: What is this actually good for?

In the Philippines, conferences typically have a number of functions: developing skills, networking, industry promotion, and occasionally… to exhaust the local government's annual budget within the first part of the year.

Regardless of why, your goal and idea of the event should be established firmly from the onset.

At an HR summit held in Davao, the client mentioned  that they required "inspiration and innovation." So local startup entrepreneurs were invited, Overseas Filipino Workers success stories, and a mobile tech lab. And the result? A standing ovation from an audience that usually 

sleeps at 2 PM.

✅ Local Tip: Be honest about the true reason for your event. Once you have the real reason, planning things like 

speakers and souvenirs become simpler.

2. Speaker & Program Management: 'Wag Mo Lang Pagsabayin si Politiko at si TikTok Star

Content is crucial, no doubt. But in the Philippines, timing and individuals are king and queen.

Your speaker list matters — but even more, how they segue.

We've had instances where a senator is speaking immediately 

following a content creator… and it doesn't necessarily sit right.

Localise your programme. Story-tell. Filipinos like to hear things straight. They prefer panels, open forums, and workshops to lengthy technical lectures.

And don't forget: your speakers need attention.Choose 

someone who is proficient in Taglish and can say "Sir, 10 minutes na lang po" without being given intimidating looks.

Pro Tip: Pinoys adore jokes, deep emotions, and hope. Put those in your program.

3. Location & Logistics: Ang Tunay na Giyera

It begins before your guests arrive. In Manila, logistics is extremely challenging — due to traffic, parking, and power supply.

One day, in a Makati hotel, the elevator broke down… when 400 guests were arriving.

Solution? 

Emergency usher attendants + coffee near stairs = crisis averted.

Provincial environments experience power outages, weak internet connectivity, and unexpected community events 

within your vicinity.

Yes, a Baguio business expo once had to be suspended 

because a marching band was rehearsing outside.

Checklist: Backup generator? Yes. Parking marshal? Yes. Printed program guide in case Wi-Fi fails? Yes, absolutely.

4. Promotion & Marketing: Kahit Gaano Kaganda, Kung Walang Pasabog, Sayang!

Filipinos are digitally native. But also chismis-driven.

Both web-based methods and word of mouth should be 

your promotional efforts.

Facebook and Eventbrite sign-up event pages

Paid TikTok teasers + community group posts

Printed VIP invitations + email invitations with emoji subject lines

Don't just sell the event. Tell people what guests will FEEL.

Listen to top business leaders while sipping unlimited coffee at the hotel buffet?

Yes po, I will reregister immediately.

Hire your speakers, sponsors, and even venue to assist in promoting. Filipinos trust endorsements more than advertisements.

5. Sponsors & Exhibitors: Welcome Them Like Festival Visitors

Sponsors are not donors — they are your co-creators.

They anticipate foot traffic, leads, and influence.

At a medical expo in Cebu, one of the biggest sponsors said that their booth was "kanto-ed" — in a bad spot. 

Solution: The layout was rearranged overnight, and a game card in the shape of a passport forced visitors to visit all booths.

Problem solved. Smile restored. Renewal secured.

Always think from their side:

Is their booth visible?

Are they part of the program?

Did anyone verify whether their tarpaulin was properly set up?

Golden Rule: Satisfied sponsors = repeat sponsors. And nothing is better than a long-term partner in this business.

6. Attendee Experience: Huwag Lang Full Stomach — Full Heart Dapat

Here in the Philippines, it's not only informative — it's 

emotional.

We love surprises, photo booths, giveaways, and raffles.

If your participants leave grumbling "I got my money's worth!" or "That was enjoyable, it wasn't dull!" — 

you've done something correctly.

Make their journey smooth:

Have a nice reg team who knows how to say, "Welcome po, Ma'am!" genuinely

Goodie bags filled with useful (and adorable) items.

Charging docks, complimentary water, and yes, good food kahit AM snack lang

A good sound system is necessary because nothing ruins a session like microphone feedback.

Secret Sauce: The more "alagang Pinoy" your approach is, the more devoted your followers will be.

7. Post-Event Engagement: Hindi lang nagtatapos sa mga 

larawan.

After the event, most of the organizers breathe a sigh of relief… and depart.

Big mistake.

Follow-up problems.

Send thank-you cards.

Post photo albums (Filipinos actually love tagging themselves)

Share short video summaries.

Provide early-bird discounts for next year's conference

Gather feedback via Google Forms or QR surveys.

And — sit down with your team. Debrief. Celebrate successes. Acknowledge failures. Plan better.

Philippine Realness: The ones who follow up are the ones who last. Long-term trust = long-term success.

Final Salute: To All Event Managers and Organizers in the 

Philippines

To all the Filipino event planners who've ever lugged 

monoblock chairs in heels. To the suited ones, who 

yell into walkie-talkies, talk smoothly, repair PowerPoints, and wow VIP guests while smiling even when stressed — You are the actual MVPs. 

Conventions and expos might look glamorous, but they are painstakingly constructed with sweat, imagination, 

collaboration, and a unique Filipino touch of hospitality. 

These 7 elements? 

They're not a to-do list — they are the key pieces that turn disorder into connection and events into experiences. 

So keep creating. Keep innovating. Keep inspiring. 

And the next time your emcee's MIA, and the mayor's already on stage. remember: You've persevered through worse. You've dealt with more. And you're doing fantastically, besh. 

What was the wildest thing that ever occurred at your event? 

Tell us your story below! Let's laugh, learn, and support each other — conference by conference.