On the panel titled “Beyond Traffic Lights”, Alan discussed the current barriers to resuming international mobility, as well as how the tourism sector can help to overcome these barriers and chart a path to the new normal as travel recovers to re-establish freedom of movement across borders.

Commenting on the future of hospitality and the role of the industry in driving international mobility, Alan Watts, President, Asia Pacific for Hilton said, "Having been part of the conversation with international and regional leaders at the 2022 WTTC Summit, the sentiment is universal: we believe that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. While barriers to full resumption of international mobility remain, we are optimistic about the return of travel – led by domestic leisure travel in some markets and international travel in others.

Meeting with the Secretary of the Department of Tourism for the Philippines, Ms. Bernadette Romulo Puyat, we discussed our continued partnership with local governments to support border reopenings, overcome barriers to international mobility and chart a path to the new normal – which is already being felt in Manila and beyond.

As the world recovers from COVID-19, we call for the need to replace pandemic-driven travel advisories with endemic-focused policies to establish a “new normal” that enable travel to resume fully, freely and safely. Hilton is making every effort to ensure our guests and customers have an experience that provides flexibility, safety and reassurance as they begin to travel again. We are committed to being a part of the solution and giving our guests a peace of mind as they rediscover travel.”

*The annual WTTC global summit provides industry leaders an opportunity to discuss pressing issues in Travel & Tourism and advance strategic initiatives that address social, environmental, and economic challenges, by creating sustainable and inclusive growth for the global community. In its 21st edition, this year’s summit explored the theme of “Rediscovering Travel”.