The Philippines reinforced its growing reputation as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism as the Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed delegates from across Asia for the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC) 2026, one of the region’s biggest special-interest competitions.
The return of the prestigious championship to the country showcased the Philippines’ ability to host world-class, experience-driven events that blend competition, tourism, business, and cultural immersion.
Around 200 elite Mini 4WD racers, team officials, exhibitors, hobby enthusiasts, and supporters from Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Cambodia, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the Philippines gathered for the three-day tournament, generating strong economic activity for hotels, restaurants, transport services, shopping centers, and local enterprises.
A major highlight of TMAC 2026 was the awards ceremony led by Tamiya Inc. President Nobuhiro Tamiya, who personally honored Asia’s top racers.
China’s Pei Chenglong emerged as champion, while Filipino racers Francis Jason Maaño and Miguel Masindo proudly secured second and third place, respectively. South Korea’s Joomyung Koh finished fourth, followed by Thailand’s Krishpong Chompudang in fifth place.
Hospitality leaves lasting impression
For Tamiya, the Philippines offers more than excellent venues and accessibility—it delivers an experience defined by genuine hospitality.
“Practical aspects such as accessibility and quality facilities are certainly important. At the same time, the welcoming spirit of the local people is equally essential. Creating an environment where participants feel comfortable and want to return is the key to a successful international event. I believe the Philippines truly has that appeal,” Tamiya said.
As part of its hospitality program, the DOT arranged a curated cultural tour for Tamiya and his delegation, featuring a ride aboard the Tranvia through Intramuros and visits to iconic heritage landmarks including San Agustin Church, Museo San Agustin, and Casa Manila.
Tamiya also met with Toyota Motor Philippines Chairman Alfred Ty to gain insights into the country’s retail landscape and business environment, underscoring the growing connection between tourism and investment.
“I hope all participants from around the world will take the opportunity to experience the many wonderful aspects of the Philippines,” he added.
Delegates praise Philippine hosting
International participants likewise praised the country’s organization, hospitality, and welcoming atmosphere.
Taiwan’s Min Hsuan Thai, 40, described the experience as unforgettable.
“Coming here, I learned a lot from this experience. Everyone is very kind to us. I am so happy. I hope, maybe next time, I can come here again. I love the Philippines,” he said.
For Mai Alremeithi, 27, from the UAE, the Philippines has set a new benchmark for hosting international hobby events.
“It’s been a very nice experience. The organizers have been amazing. Out of the events held globally, this is our favorite. This is my first time in the Philippines, but definitely if there are future events, I will come back. It’s one of the best countries for this type of event because almost everyone speaks English, making it easy to communicate,” she said.
Thailand’s co-team leader Mot Watcharapong, 30, was equally impressed.
“If I could give a score, I would give 100 because the hosting and the race are really good,” he said.
MICE tourism fuels broader economic opportunities
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said TMAC 2026 reflects the growing importance of special-interest MICE events in driving tourism growth and expanding economic opportunities across multiple industries.
“Special-interest MICE tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of global travel because it brings together communities united by a shared passion. These visitors do more than attend an event—they stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, shop in our communities, and explore our destinations, generating meaningful and inclusive economic opportunities for Filipinos,” she said.
According to the Tourism chief, TMAC 2026 also allowed the Philippines to showcase not only its hospitality but also its culture, creativity, and investment potential.
“It has brought Asia’s Mini 4WD community to the Philippines while allowing us to showcase our culture, creativity, hospitality, and investment potential. Through curated experiences such as the Museo del Galeón visit, we are able to present not only our rich history but also the depth of our tourism offerings.”
She added that Tamiya’s engagements with Philippine business leaders highlight the increasingly close relationship between tourism, trade, and investment.
“Every successful MICE event strengthens our position not only as a destination to visit, but also as a trusted partner for business, innovation, and long-term investment,” Angara-Mathay said.
Longstanding investment confidence
Tamiya’s visit also highlighted the Japanese company’s enduring commitment to the Philippines.
The company operates its only manufacturing facility outside Japan in Cebu, which serves as a vital production hub supporting global operations. Tamiya recently reinforced that commitment through a ₱2-billion investment in a new manufacturing facility that generated 300 additional jobs, reflecting its confidence in Filipino talent, manufacturing capability, and the country’s investment climate.
“The Philippines’ greatest treasure is its people,” Tamiya said.
“The people are warm, full of energy, and always welcome visitors with open hearts. I certainly hope to return to the Philippines again, and I look forward to seeing the Tamiya family here again in the future.”
The DOT said it will continue pursuing high-value MICE and special-interest events that encourage longer visitor stays, increase tourism spending, diversify the country’s tourism portfolio, and further establish the Philippines as one of Asia’s leading destinations for international conventions, exhibitions, competitions, and experience-driven travel.
