Jehovah's Witnesses expect their 2026 International Convention in Manila to generate approximately P1.5 billion in local spending, as thousands of overseas and domestic delegates patronize tourism-related businesses, the religious organization said in a statement.

The three-day convention, themed “Eternal Happiness,” will be held at the SMX Convention Center and the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1. Organizers said the event is expected to draw more than 5,000 international delegates and about 20,000 domestic attendees over a two-week period that began Oct. 26.

James Morales, spokesman for Jehovah's Witnesses in the Philippines, said the spending is expected to benefit businesses across the hospitality, food service, transportation, retail and entertainment industries. Some international delegates are also expected to visit destinations outside Metro Manila, extending potential tourism benefits to other parts of the country.

According to Mr. Morales, the free three-day program will explore how people can cultivate lasting happiness through spirituality and practical Bible principles. No collections will be taken during the event.

The Witnesses rank among the world's largest nonprofit convention organizers. Their most recent international convention in the Philippines was held in 2019, making the 2026 Manila edition the organization's first such gathering in the country in seven years.

The Manila gathering forms part of a series of international conventions taking place throughout 2026. The group said the same program has already been presented at 19 international conventions in countries including Portugal, South Africa and Thailand.

Source: BusinessWorld — Norman P. Aquino