Philippines Tourism Sustained Growth – DOT Report

Close to four million tourists visited the Philippines from January to May of this year, a 5.37% growth compared to last year's period, Department of Tourism (DoT) report said recently.

Based from the latest statistics from the DoT, Metro Manila is the most visited destination in the Philippines, with 848,518 foreign tourists staying in accomodation facilities found in the area, followed by Cebu which posted a 4.34% growth for the first five months of 2010. RP's famed beach destination, Boracay Island, landed third with 378,694 visitors from January to May, posting a 12.15% growth rate. Boracay is followed by Camarines Sur, Baguio, and Davao City.

Puerto Princesa City in Palawan posted the biggest growth rate in all provincial tourist destination with 35.12 percent. For the first five months of 2010, nearly 74,000 tourist have visited the city, primarily to see the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a consistent top candidate in the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign.

The DoT reports also stated that a total of 80 new accommodation facilities are expected to be opened by the end of 2010 to accommodate the growing number of local and foreign tourist visiting various destinations in the country. By 2012, 57 more will be added to the total accommodation facilities in the Philippines.

In a statement, DoT Secretary Joseph 'Ace' Durano said, “The DoT has laid down the foundations for sustained growth in tourist arrivals and investments in select destinations over the past years, creating opportunities for increased local employment and harnessing entrepreneurial capabilities of local government units and the private sector to venture into and create new tourism products and services.”

Sec. Durano added that the full implementation of the Tourism Act of 2009 will strengthen the power of DoT and spearhead the development, promotion, and conservation of the tourism areas in the country.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Department of Tourism. First Five Months Report – Philippine Tourism: Sustaining Growth Momentum for the Future. (Posted June 23, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/Pages/IndustryPerformance.aspx

Jaymalin, Mayen, The Philippine Star. DOT reports 5.37% tourist growth (Posted June 25, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=587311&publicationSubCategoryId=87

Lontayao, Rommel, The Manila Times. Tourist volume up in first five months – DOT (Posted June 24, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/nation/20110-tourist-volume-up-in-first-five-months--dot?fontstyle=f-smaller

Philstar.com. Tourists increase in first 5 months – DOT (Posted June 24, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=587262&publicationSubCategoryId=200

Pinoys Push Pedals Anew at Bike Festival Asia 2010

Filipino bikers from all over the country will again push pedals during the Bike Festival Asia 2010 to be held on May 21 – 22, 2010 at Terrazas de Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The event aims to boost tourism in Southern Luzon and promote wellness and active lifestyle. This annual event is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DoT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) (formerly Philippine Tourism Authority).

Competition is open to all bikers age 18 - 55 years old. Interested participants may register at L.E.N. Plus Inc., Unit F, Lower Ground Floor, CT. Center Building, 520 Shaw Blvd., cor. Old Wack Wack St., Mandaluyong City. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon barbeque will be provided for all registered participants. Registration starts on May 10 to May 17, 2010.

For more information, contact L.E.N. Plus, Inc., at (632) 532-9443 or email lenplus@pldtdsl.net.

A New Trail Awaits Participants of the 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race

Trail runners and mountain bikers will surely have their work cut out for them as they take part in the 4^th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race to be held on May 16, 2010 in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is the most eagerly anticipated race in the country by both mountain bikers and trail runners. It’s is also the perfect springboard for new riders and runners to try something new and to push their limit.

Participants may choose to run the 6-kilometer, 10-kilometer or 16-kilometer trail course, or ride their bikes on the 20-kilometer or the 40-kilometer route. But for those up for the challenge, there is also the option to do both the 10-kilometer trail run and 20-kilometer bike ride. Racers will be running and/or riding on pavements, dirt roads and grass lands. They will also get the opportunity to admire the view from the top of a ravine, and get wet while crossing a river on their way to the finish line.

Registration is now ongoing at Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers in Trinoma and Festival Super Mall, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.) in Bonifacio High Street and at the Summit Media Office at the 7th Floor of Robinsons Cybergate Tower 3, Pioneer St., Mandaluyong, City. Deadline of registration is on May 12, 2010.

Good food, cool music and, great company awaits all participants as the event coincided with Men’s Health Philippines’ Fifth Anniversary celebration.

The 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is co-presented by Keen and sponsored by Cherifer Premium, Emperador Light with official venue partner, Nuvali; official timer, Timex; official outfitter, AllStar; registration partners, Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers and ROX and official radio partner Magic 89.9.

For more information about the event, contact Summit Media Publishing at (632) 451-8888 local 1070 or 1071, visit www.menshealth.com.ph or grab a copy of the current issue of Men’s Health, available in newsstands, bookstores and supermarkets nationwide.

Manila F.A.M.E. International 2010 Unfolds New Beginning

Re-inventing and transforming, Manila Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange (Manila F.A.M.E.) International begins a new chapter in its 27-year history, as it evolves into Asia’s Boutique Show on April 22-25, 2010 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City.

More than just an exhibition for home and fashion lifestyle products, Manila F.A.M.E. provides its visitors and buyers a unique experience with more than the usual product selections.

This bi-annual trade show, organized by Center For International Trade Expositions And Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry, expands into 4 co-located shows featuring Home Living for design-driven furniture and houseware; FashioNation for fashion forward collections of inspired fashion complements, garments, and textile; BIO-Search, a promotion of health and wellness that offers natural personal care and spa products; and ART:MNL, a sampling of Filipino contemporary paintings and sculptures.

Sticking to the show’s tradition of excellence, Manila F.A.M.E. boasts of top-notch craftsmanship with premium quality and design innovations unique to the country. As Asia’s Boutique Show, buyers are given further personalized customer service that is an extension of the world-renowned Filipino warmth and hospitality where both buyers and exhibitors are provided a venue to conduct business and build lasting relationships

In the Philippines, Manila F.A.M.E. International raises the bar for international exhibitions by being the only trade fair accredited by Union des Foires Internationales (UFI), a Paris-based association of trade fair organizers. And, as one of the longest-running trade shows for home lifestyle products in the Asia Pacific, it is a favorite sourcing destination of well-known brands such as Neiman Marcus, Jonathan Adler, Armani Casa, Ralph Lauren, Harrods, and Gucci among others.

“Through the years, Manila F.A.M.E. has never failed to give our buyers only the best that the Philippines can offer as we continuously seek new ways, new styles, and new approaches for a seamless buying experience. As we welcome our guests this April, we hope to inspire them with our expanded product offerings under 4 co-located shows: Home Living, FashioNation, BIO-Search, and ART:MNL, as I personally extend this invitation to our buyers and exhibitors alike. Be part of the evolution. See you this April,” said CITEM Deputy Executive Director and Manila F.A.M.E. Over-all Project Director, Thelma Dumpit-Murillo.

In its October 2009 edition, close to 2,000 buyers from Japan, Germany, Australia, France, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States, visited the show where 439 world-class companies exhibited.

“We keep visiting Manila whenever Manila F.A.M.E. International is there because we like the originality; the designs are nice, there are new concepts and the standard is high. We come here for Christmas items and pottery. It is extraordinary all the time here,” enthused a buyer from Belgium.

A first time visitor from India says, “…The handicraft [in the show] is good. The quality and design are nice.”

Likewise, a buyer from Australia had good words for the show saying, “We import from all over the world and the products you have here seem to be of better quality than all the other products we have seen. We are quite impressed with it.”

This April 2010, visitors can likewise look forward to new show components such as Switch, which highlights designers’ crossing over design disciplines to show versatility, Icons, which features forerunners of Philippine design who have made it big internationally as well as daily fashion shows and design competitions.

For more information about the event, contact the Manila F.A.M.E. International Secretariat at (632) 833-1258, 831-2201 Local 240/243 (Home Lifestyle), 831.1265, 8312201 Local 203 / 226 (Fashion Lifestyle) e-mail manilafame@citem.com.ph or visit the event website at http://www.manilafame.com

Tarlac to Host Palarong Pambansa 2010

The provincial government of Tarlac will host the 53rd edition of the Palarong Pambansa to be held on April 11-17, 2010 at the Tarlac Recreational Park (TRP) in San Jose, Tarlac.

Prior to the event, a launching was held last February 18, 2010 simultaneously in four other towns -- Bamban, Concepcion, Camiling and San Manuel-- as a signal for the start of the Palaro 2010 countdown.

Tarlac province has started the counting from the 53rd day before the event as this is the 53rd Palarong Pambansa. The theme for this year is “Play for the Region, Win for the Nation”. The activity kicked off at 6:30 a.m. with all the 17 municipalities and one city in the province held a firecracker launch, simultaneous with the ringing of all church bells. This was followed by a province-wide cycling and motorcade.

The launching also introduced “Palaro” this year’s mascot. “As first time host, we mark this event with this mascot. We named “Palaro”, -- a multi-faceted yet roundly unified ball to symbolize the energy, the discipline and the verve that go with every jump, every kick and every bounce made during the games.” Gov. Yap said.

He also said that “much like Tarlac, dubbed as the melting pot of Central Luzon where diverse cultures meet and mix, mascot ‘Palaro” also represents convergence and oneness.”

The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Tarlac government also conducted a press briefing at the TRP where mechanics, security, fraud, accommodation of athletes, transportation, traffic and other matters about the competition were tackled.

Governor Victor Yap said that he was excited with the staging of the Palarong Pambansa in the province. He said that although there are some facilities that have not yet been completed, he assured that it will be done before the event. The DepEd, for its part, said that accommodations, mechanics, safety measures and other concerns were already been set.

Gov. Yap also emphasized that Palaro is a dream come true to all Tarlaquenos. “This is our chance to showcase our warm hospitality, our ability to handle the big sports event and to show not only to our countrymen but to the whole world as well the beauty of our province,” he said.

The Palarong Pambansa 2010 hopes to boost the province’s economy, especially the tourism industry. Some 25,000 guests from the country’s 17 regions are expected to attend the annual sporting event.

The 53rd Palarong Pambansa is in cooperation with the DepEd Task Force on School Sports and sponsored by Smart Communications, Inc., and SM.

For more information about the event, contact the Palarong Pambansa - Tarlac Secretariat at (6345) 6114148, (63910) 387-3956, email palaro2010@gmail.com or visit the Palarong Pambansa 2010 blog at http://palarongpambansa2010satarlac.blogspot.com/ or Tarlac Government website at http://www.tarlac.gov.ph/

Local Skimmers Head out to CamNorte for First Ultimate Regional Skim and Skate Challenge

Witness top regional skimmers battle it out for skim supremacy with ingenious moves guaranteed to be served fresh, hot and deliciously spicy during the 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam slated on April 3 – 4, 2010 at Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte.

The event is when Bicolano and Luzon skimmers and skaters will gather to compete in one of the first ever regional skim and skate challenge held in one of Camarines Norte’s Skim havens. An almost two kilometer expanse of flat, fine grey sand conveniently located 10 minutes away from the bustling town of Daet awaits skim aficionados from all skill levels.

The skate event will be held in the Bagasbas Pavilion and an 8km, Mercedes-to-Bagasbas Push race will kick off after that. There will be different classes and division for amateur and expert skimmers and a longboarding competition during the event.

The 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam is supported by San Miguel Corporation, Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas, Junior Chamber International (JCI) – Philippines, and Department of Tourism.

Registration fee is P300.00 inclusive of event shirt and 2 lunch stubs. For more information, contact Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas at (63908) 881-5075 or visit their website, http://slicksurf.multiply.com/.

Neophyte Surfers to Ride the Waves at 2nd Baler Beginners' Surf Competition

The Baler Beginners' Surf Competition, the biggest beginners' surf competition in the country is back. It will be held from April 9 – 11, 2010 at Sabang Beach in Baler, Aurora.

Now on its second year, the event encourages newbie surfers and those who’d like to try the sport to learn from veteran surfers and experience riding the waves this summer. The competition is open for all first timer surfers, even spectators. Get the chance to meet new friends, eat great food, take home freebies, and a chance to win really cool prizes. Special awards such as Best Rides, Worst Wipe Outs, Best in Surf Wear, and more, will be conferred during the event.

Registration fee is PhP. 3, 800.00 for competitors and PhP. 3, 300.00 for spectators. Package include two nights-3 days accommodation (group sharing), transportation (Private Bus), 5 free meals (3 breakfasts, 2 dinners), two (2) sets of one hour surf lesson and board rental, and official event t-shirt. Participants who will be joining will have to pay down payment of Php 1,500. Full payment will be collected on the day of the event.

The 2nd Baer Beginners’ Surf Competition is organized by Surfari Philippines and MAHDOX Surf School and Surf Shop together with Aloha Boardsports.

For inquiries call or text Mr. Jasper Enriquez at (63922) 852-7737 or Benjamin Uy at (63922) 844-3729.

WORLDBEX 2010 Goes Green

WORLDBEX 2010 has turned green into more than just a color—it has become a goal, a statement and a mission.

In its 15th year anniversary and its grandest show to date, WORLDBEX (Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition), the first and foremost international construction trade show in the country, has adapted the theme “Constructing the Future Green Communities through Efficient Technologies and Materials.” Here, the latest building materials and technology will be showcased from March 17 to 21, 2010 at the World Trade Center, and Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City to aid architects, engineers, contractors and interior designers in making better structures that will stand up to the elements.

While this annual world-renowned expo has become the source of the most premium local and international products and services in the construction industry, local architects and building specialists are also looking forward to it because it has become an indispensable source of information for the latest construction trends and developments. This is all because of the highly anticipated WORLDBEX Seminars.

Acclaimed speakers from different parts of the globe who will grace the event include Engr. Sipco de Jonge (Netherlands); Arch. Timothy Wong (Singapore); Arch. Tai Lee Siang (Singapore); Ken Witherell (USA); and Terry Waterhouse (UK).

Meanwhile, local green advocates and experts will tackle a variety of topics: from living stylishly and efficiently in small spaces (by interior design guru Leo Almeria), to proper urban planning that will avert possible disasters (Arch. Felino Palafox, Jr.). Each day from March 18 to 20 will feature four different speakers who will share their expertise.

Who says the Philippines cannot go green? The country’s top architecture practitioners such as Arch. Jun Palafox, Arch. Albert Yu, and Arch. Philip Recto as well as leading interior designers Leo Almeria, Natalia Benitez, Suzet Cocuaco, Lot Hilvano, Wilmer Lopez, Chat Fores Lozano, Roland Laurena, Michael Pizarro, Tessa Prieto Valdez, Maritess Magcase & Rosalie Si, and Hubilla Design Group will show a uniquely local twist to sustainable design at the WORLDBEX’s Architects and Interior Designers Gallery.

Another facet of WORLDBEX 2010 that proves that sustainable development is now a global concern and responsibility is its Grand Embassy Pavilion. With about 28 countries represented, the Grand Embassy Pavilion will include United States of America, Turkey, Thailand, Finland, Syria, Indonesia, Korea, and Malaysia, among others.

WORLDBEX 2010 is sponsored by Boysen Paint, Davies Paint, Hunter Douglas, HCG, Lepanto Tiles, Mariwasa Tiles, WilsonArt, Puyat Steel, Puyat Flooring, and Cubes International.

For more information about the event, contact the Worldbex Services International at (632) 531-6374; 531-6350; 531-5044; 533-6988, fax (632) 533-2026, email: info@worldbex.com or visit their website at www.worldbex.com

Most Anticipated Food and Beverage Expo Slated this March

The 3^rd Philippine International Food and Beverage Expo (PIFBEX 2010), most anticipated food and beverage expo in the country providing the supply solution in this industry will be staged from March 4 - 6, 2010 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by Trade Advertising Exhibitions & Conventions International, Inc. (Tradecon, Inc), the three-day event will bring together food and beverage industry players and professionals from all over the Philippine and the world to interact, transact, and explore limited business opportunities among themselves. Since its inception, the event continues its advocacy to bringing together the Food and Beverage industry players from the Philippines and around the globe to explore unlimited business opportunities.

PIFBEX 2010 also aims to open the gateway to further trade expansion and reach by offering innovative business opportunities to decision-makers and new potential customers on the latest machinery, equipment and technology related to food processing, handling and packaging.

“The expo will feature programs and activities that offer a timely opportunity to create consumer awareness on new developments on food and beverages and directly promote them in the market and among shoppers, inspired food buyers and enthusiasts,” said Tradecon, Inc. president Mildred Caballero.

Among the highlights of PIFBEX 2010 is its dessert-making competition with the theme “Filipino Desserts” where students from different culinary schools in the country will take part in.

PIFBEX 2010 targets over 18,000 trade buyers and guests who are expected to the fair that will showcase everything on food and beverages, as well as food franchising and business systems.

For inquiries and updates on PIFBEX 2010, contact Tradecon, Inc., at (632) 482-5318, 395-5009, e-mail tradecon.inc@gmail.com or visit the event website at www.pifbex.com.

JFM Stages 2010 Nihongo Fiesta at Mall of Asia

Immerse yourself into the fascinating world of Japanese culture on February 27, 2010, as the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) and SM Mall of Asia, hold the 2010 Nihongo Fiesta at the SM Mall of Asia Cinema and Main Mall Atrium.

The annual festival, which promotes international cultural and arts exchange between Japan and the Philippines, will include a highly-anticipated Nihongo speech contest, a fun and hip Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest, and an exciting J-Rock (Japanese rock) Concert.

Filipino students and professionals who want to show off their linguistic skills in Nihongo are invited to join the 37th Nihongo Speech Contest and get a chance to win an all-expense paid week-long study tour in Japan. In line with JFM’s objective of promoting cultural exchange through Japanese Language Education, participants are required to deliver their own original compositions on a subject of their choice. High School Nihongo beginners, on the other hand, can participate in the 2nd Nihongo Quiz Bee for High School Students to showcase their knowledge in Japanese language and culture. Both contests will be held in Cinema 2 of Mall of Asia; from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Aside from showcasing the Japanese language, the Nihongo Fiesta will also put on display the stylish and edgy characters that descend the streets of Tokyo in the Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest. The trendy Tokyoites are captured in a photo exhibition along with Manila’s very own interpretation of street fashion through the watchful eyes of Filipino fashion designer and style blogger Cecile Zamora Van Straten, and curated by Team Manila. Guests are invited to express their individuality, dress up in their street style best, and turn the hallways of Mall of Asia into urban center catwalks on February 27. Roving “style scouts” will choose the best dressed and the winner will take home a cash prize and Japanese fashion products. The Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest will run from February 22 to 28 in the Main Mall Atrium of SM Mall of Asia.

Finally, cap off the Nihongo Fiesta festivities in the evening with fantastic music and dancing at the J-Rock Concert featuring the influential Japanese punk-pop-rock band Shonen Knife. Fresh from their US tour, the all-female group, which has gained a worldwide cult following, will rock out with the country’s all-male dunk (dance and punk) band, Pedicab in a one-night only free concert at Mall of Asia’s San Miguel by the Bay from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

The 2010 Nihongo Fiesta is supported by the following media partners: Manila Bulletin, NU 107 and ClicktheCity.com.

Admission is free to all 2010 Nihongo Fiesta events. For inquiries, contact the JFM at (632) 811-6155 or email email@jfmo.org.ph or visit their website at www.jfmo.org.ph.

PSC Celebrates 20th Anniversary with All in Sports Expo 2010

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Philippine Sports Commission, players, coaches, and sports enthusiasts are invited to take part in the country’s newest sports and fitness expo: the 1st Philippine Sporting Goods and Facilities, Fitness Equipment, Apparel and Footwear, Hobbies, Recreation and Health-Related Products and Services Exhibition (All in Sports Expo 2010) scheduled on February 25 – 28, 2010 at the newly-renovated Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Sports Commission in partnership with Global-Link MP Events International, Inc., the event will be an exhibit of the latest in the sports and fitness industry, featuring products, services, and technology form top local as well as foreign companies.

All In Sports Expo 2010 will coincide with the Commission on Higher Education - Private Schools Athletic Association - State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (CHED-PRISAA-SCUAA) National Games - the biggest sports competition among private and state colleges and universities in the country. The games will showcase young athletes from 17 regions across the Philippine battle it out to become achieve high honors in their respective sports, including judo, badminton, tennis, swimming, athletics, and baseball.

Aside from display of sporting goods and items sold at discounted prices, other activities have been lined up for the four-day sports expo. There will be an inter-school tournament and exhibition on the country’s National Sport, Arnis. Philippine Taekwondo's best athletes will compete for the Metro Manila Open Championship. Philippine Grandmasters will face-off in a chess tournament. Other activities include bodybuilding exhibition, international dance competition for the youth in multiple subjects and styles including hip-hop, jazz, and ballroom, Tennis Exhibition Match between top athletes in men's and women's divisions, and a Sports photo exhibit featuring the greatest moments in Philippine sports from 1990 to present.

For more information about the event, contact Global-Link MP Events International Inc. at (632) 750-8588, 887-1304; fax (632) 750-8585; email: info@globallinkmp.com, or visit their website at www.globallinkph.com.

Philippine Beauty Experts Shine at Cosmetologie 2010

The Philippine International Cosmetologists Association (PICA), the leading organization of beauty and wellness professionals and the only association accredited by TESDA, proudly presents Cosmetologie 2010: Beauty, Wellness, and Trends Expo at the SMX Convention Center from February 23-24, 2010.

Cosmétologie 2010: Beauty, Wellness & Trends is the biggest and most prestigious gathering of industry professionals in the country today. With the leading names in the beauty, wellness and fashion industries taking part in this grand occasion, Cosmétologie 2010 will set trends in a country that appreciates beauty inside and out.

Organized by PICA together with Premier Events Plus Group, Inc. (PEPGroup, Inc.), Cosmétologie 2010 is assured of being an effective platform to promoting the latest products and services. The event will provide the most rewarding educational experience to all its participants with different activities conducted by professionals and experts in various disciplines of cosmetology. Interactive workshops on Classic cutting, Comprehensive coloring, Seasonal and trendy styling, Specialty make-up, Nail enhancement, Hair enhancement, Aromatherapy and reflexology will be staged throughout the two-day affair. There will also be live demonstrations where visitors can watch and learn from the best in the industry as international and celebrity experts conduct demonstrations on-stage.

To highlight Cosmétologie 2010, the organizers will stage a fashion fair and runway show where visitors will see total looks come together with fabulous fashion, amazing accessories, spectacular hair and make-up all set to vibrant music and expert commentary.

New to the expo is the complete integration of the “Touch of Excellence”, touted as the most prestigious and most credible competition for the beauty professionals and budding stylists who will take part in a unique competition to showcase their skills and creativity in the following categories: Urban Chic Cut and Color (Ladies and Gents), Red Carpet Glamour Hairstyle and Make-Up, and Bridal Bliss Make-up.

For more inquiries, contact Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., at (632) 4269603, 9280931, 4354790, 9291576, 9297993, email, info@pepgroup.com or the Philippine International Cosmetologists Association at (632) 437-3734. Visit the event website at http://www.cosmetologiefair.com/.

Manila Night Sky to Brighten Up during First Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

Every Sunday starting February 14, 2010, Valentines Day and Chinese New Year, the Manila night sky will brighten up as the best pyrotechnic experts take part in the First Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, scheduled from February 14 – March 14, 2010 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City.

Present by SM Mall of Asia this annual event will put on a never-before-seen spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts from nine countries – Australia, United Kingdom, China, France, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, United States of America, and the Philippines.

This competition will not only pain the Manila sky with brilliant bursts of vivid colors, but will also be the venue to showcase the emerging artistry and evolving sophistication of Filipino fireworks technology. The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will be imbued with the awesome fanfare and delightful displays of the world's leading pyrotechnic events, but done with that distinct Filipino flourish that will surely bring together eager audience from all over the region.

The Philippines will fire up the opening salvo of pyrotechnic artistry on February 14. As host country, the Philippines will not take part in the competition but will showcase its unique pyrotechnic presentation during the opening and closing ceremonies. Other countries will show off their entries during the following days:

• February 14 - Australia
• February 21 – United Kingdom and China
• February 28 – France and China
• March 7 – Singapore and Malaysia
• March 14 – USA

The 1st Philippine International Pyromusical Competition is in cooperation with Platinum Fireworks, Inc., and Department of Tourism. Official Residence is Traders Hotel Manila.

For ticket inquiries, call Ticketnet at (632) 911-5555 and Ticketworld at (632) 891-999. For more information about the event, contact Platinim Fireworks, Inc., at (63917) 926-4625, (63939) 317-5476, email platinumfireworks@gmail.com or visit the event website at www.pyrophilippines.com/.

CCP Sets Stage for First Philippine Guitar Fest

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and The Guitar Friends will hold the First Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 from January 28 to 31 at the CCP in Pasay City. With the objective of promoting the Classical Guitar, the festival offers exciting musical performances by outstanding guitarists from the Philippines and abroad.

Maestro Jose Valdez, who is considered to be one of the best guitar teachers in the country, is the director of the Festival. Maestro Valdez, who has 35 years of teaching experience, is a lecturer and professor at the University of the Philippines, Philippine Women’s University, St. Scholastica’s College, Philippine National University, La Concordia College and St. Paul University. He is a pioneer of all major guitar courses in most schools in the Philippines. The CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts ranks him as one of the pioneers of classical guitar in the country.

Among those performing in the Festival are Mr. Steve Lin, Mr. Michael Dadap, Mr. Jose Valdez, Mr. Perfecto de Castro, Mr. Sixto Roxas, Mr. Kasilag Guitar Trio, Tabs, UP Guitar Orchestra, Fundacion Centro Flamenco and the winners of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists 2009 Guitar Category. More artists and groups, including the Manila Symphony Orchestra, are expected to be added to the list of performers in the Festival. One of the highlights of the Festival will be the concert by a Spanish guitar soloist to be brought in by Instituto Cervantes.

Mr. Steve Lin is a renowned international artist who has concertized throughout the US, Italy, the Philippines and Taiwan. An award winning guitarist and a recording artist, Mr. Lin teaches guitar at the San Jose State University and Northern California School of Music. He has a master’s degree from Yale School of Music and is completing his doctorate at the New England Conservatory under Eliot Fiske.

Mr. Michael Dadap has been artistic/music director and conductor of The Children’s Orchestra Society since 1984. He studied at UP, the Mannes College of Music and the Juilliard School. As a conductor, he has conducted and collaborated with some of the world’s most renowned concert artists. As an accomplished classical guitarist, he made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1974 and has since performed in numerous concerts internationally.

Mr. Sixto “Butch” Roxas is a highly respected guitarist currently helping reestablish as well as playing for the UST Jazz Orchestra together with conductor/saxophonist Mr. Tots Tolentino. He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music in Boston and took guitar courses in various institutions abroad such as the Schola Cantorum in Paris and in Barcelona, Spain with Maestro Josep Henriquez under a grant from the Agencia Española. He is a faculty member of the UST Conservatory of Music.

Mr. Perfecto de Castro is hailed as one of the best Filipino guitarists. A graduate of PWU School of Music, he studied with Maestro Jose Valdez. The Laudarra, or the Ten String Classical Guitar, is Castro’s instrument of choice. He has collaborated with composers all over the world to add to the repertoire of the Ten String Guitar. He is a founding member of the Kasilag Guitar Quartet.

Fundacion Centro Flamenco is an organization dedicated to the promotion of the art of flamenco music and dance.

The Guitar Friends, which is spearheading the Festival, is composed of guitar aficionados of varying levels of expertise in guitar performance brought together by their love for guitar and their association with Maestro Jose Valdez, the Festival director. The Guitar Friends support the Guitar Immersion Program of Maestro Valdez and conducts activities such as campus concerts and master classes.

The 1st Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 will offer master classes and lectures on topics such as “Building a Performing Career,” “Flamenco,” “A Guitarist’s Pain,” “Jazz Improvisation,” “Ensemble Playing” and “Musicality, Intelligence and Technique.” The Festival will also feature booths and displays by guitar makers and manufacturers.

The 1st Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 is sponsored by CCP, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), SMART Communications, Inc., and Rudolf Lietz, Inc.

For details, call (63917) 526-6377, (63920) 498-2720, (63915) 921-3440, e-mail philguitarfest@gmail.com or visit http://philguitarfest.blogspot.com.

Philstar.com bares Christmas Celebrity Run 2009

Celebrating a more meaningful Christmas this year, philstar.com is calling online community members, lifestyle aficionados, sports enthusiasts and race buffs to join the Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 on December 20, 2009 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

“We invite everyone to celebrate the yuletide season with us and support our campaign to connect Philippine public high schools to the world by joining Christmas Celebrity Run 2009,” said philstar.com General Manager Katrina-Sandejas Mañosa.

The event was designed as a venue where philstar.com online community members can interact with celebrities, who share the same passion for running, healthy lifestyle, online literacy and charity work.

Heading the celebrity roster, according to Manosa, are Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Maricel Laxa, Anthony Pangilinan, Gary Valenciano, Rovilson Fernandez, Marc Nelson, Claudine Barreto, Raymart Santiago, KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual and Drew Arellano. Business tycoons Jaime and Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Fred Uytengsu and Lance Gokongwei are likewise expected to put on their running gear during the event.

Special prizes await the top three runners in the male and female divisions of the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer races. In the 21-kilometer race, two winners will be chosen (one male and one female) in each of the five divisions: 18-25 years old, 26-30 years old, 31-29 years old, Male (40 and above) and Female (35 and above). More prizes await those who come in costumes looking like celebrities. Three participants will be named Best in costume (Celebrity Look-a-like).

“More than the social and healthy benefits of running, philstar.com’s Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 will also help fund the computerization program of GILAS (Gearing up Internet Literacy and Access for Students), a multi-sectoral initiative spearheaded by the Ayala Foundation program,” Ms. Mañosa explained “This is in line with our corporate social responsibility of nurturing not just the online community but helping spread online literacy as well.”

Initially scheduled Oct. 11, the race was postponed to give way to relief, clean-up and rehabilitation efforts in Taguig, one of the urban areas badly hit by tropical storm Ondoy last Sept. 26.

The philstar.com Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 is sponsored by Adidas, Yahoo! Philippines, E-Games, Brazilian Agaricus 8-in-1 Herbal Coffee, Crocs, Nutribar, SMART Communications, Inc., Coppertone, Aqua Blue, Sport Beans, Timex, Chris Sports, Vitwater, Mizuno, Paul Calvin's Deli, McKinley Hill, and One Tagaytay Place, Action and Fitness Magazine, Men’s Health Philippines, Women’s Health Philippines, Magic 89.9, AXN-Asia, Jack TV, Jobstreet, Chikka, People Asia, The Philippine STAR, NU 107, and takbo.ph.

For more information, contact project director Mr. Ian Alacar at (63929) 6496762 or philstar.com at (632) 527-6856, email marketing@philstar.com, or visit www.philstar.com.

Christmas Gifts Made Affordable at 2nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show

Hundreds of toys and gift items will be sold in affordable prices at the 2^nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show (MTGS) on December 16 – 22, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 2 and 3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Organized by Megatrade Hall and MCT Events Management, The seven-day event will feature toys and collectibles, apparel and shoes, fashion, home, and kids’ accessories, food, and even novelty gift items, just in time for the Christmas Season.

Last year’s event drew over 80,000 guests of all ages. This year, the event expects an even bigger crowd with a wide array of products perfect for the last-minute Christmas shopping.

Within the MTGS flag is the highly-anticipated 4^th Annual Toys and Collectibles Christmas Fair, to be held on December 19 – 21. The event has already been dubbed the ultimate event for collectors and hobbyists with its extensive range of collectibles and rate toys offered both on direct sale and on auction. In addition, new and exciting activities have been lined up for the attendees, such as Holiday Cooing Demos, Meet and Greet Santa, Fashion Shows, Toy Auctions, Cosplay Competitions, Arts and Crafts, and other games and surprises.

More than a selling fair, MTGS also aims to share the Christmas cheer to the children of Bantay Bata 163 by raising funds for the “Light the Tree, Light a Hope” project. A portion of the show proceeds will be donated to Bantay Bata 163. The visitors will not only get to shop for toys and gifts, they will also be given the opportunity to share their blessings with less fortunate children.

For inquiries, contact Megatrade Hall at (632) 633-1697, 634-7617 or MCT Events Management at (632) 799-0230, 747-0529, 701-1759 or email mctevents@gmail.com

International Marathon To Benefit Pasig River Rehabilitation

The historic Pasig River will be the main beneficiary of the staging of the Philippine International Marathon: A Run for the Pasig River scheduled on November 8, 2009 at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park, Manila.

Co-presented by ABS-CBN Foundation, and IZOD, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources through the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) in cooperation with Rexona, and the Department of Tourism, the event aims to promote awareness regarding the degrading state of the river and gather funds to aid in its rehabilitation. The said rehabilitation includes the relocation of the remaining 800 families living along the riverbanks.

The marathon is open to all runners six years old and above, amateur or professional. The race will begin at Quirino Grandstand and cover the major streets of Metro Manila, passing through eight bridges, including Del Pan, Jones, MacArthur, Ayala and Makati-Mandaluyong. Participants may choose to take part in the 3K, 5K, 10K, or the 42K individual or relay category. Cash prizes are in store for the top 10 finishers in the full marathon.

Participation fee is P250.00. Registration forms are available at kapitbisigilogpasig.multiply.com and to be submitted at the following registration outlets:

REGISTRATION OUTLETS	ADDRESS
Kapit Bisig para sa Ilog Pasig	3/F ELJ Building, Mother Ignacia Ave., Quezon City
ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc. Head Office	Mother Ignacia Ave., Quezon City (Guard House)
IZOD Boutiques	SM City North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia, The Podium, Trinoma, Ayala Center Cebu, Robinson’s Place – Manila, Gateway Mall
Van Heusen Boutiques	SM Megamall, SM Southmall, Gateway Mall, Greenhills, The Shop, Shangri-La Mall, Market! Market!
Gold’s Gym	Glorietta, Makati, Alabang, Robinson’s Galleria, Ortigas, Wilsons Greenhills
R.O.X Running Store	Bonifacio High Street, The Fort, Taguig City
Second Wind	88 Maginhawa St., Teacher’s Village, Quezon City
Race Inc.,	Vasquez Madrigal Bldg. No. 55 Annapolis St., San Juan , Metro Manila

The Philippine International Marathon: A Run for the Pasig River is sponsored by Van Heusen, Gold's Gym, Gatorade, and Goldilocks Bakeshop, and the following media partners: ABS-CBN, ASAP '09, National Parks Development Committee, The Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, Business World, People's Tonight, and People's Journal.

For more information, contact the Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig at (632) 416-1911, 410-2753 to 55, 415-2272 local 3797 or email ilogpasig@asb-cbn.com, kapitbisigparasailogpasig@gmail.com.

Manansala To Represent RP in Mister International 2009

Mister International Philippines 2009 winner Michael Manansala will represent the country in the upcoming Mister International 2009 to be held tomorrow, December 19, 2009 at the Plaza International Hotel in Taichung, Taiwan ROC (Republic of China).

Mr. Manansala, a 23-year-old freelanced model from Quezon City, was crowned Mister International Philippines 2009 last October 14, 2009 at the A. Venue Events Mall in Makati City. He bested 16 other contenders who competed for the chance to represent the country in the upcoming Mister International 2009 and Php. 50,000.00 and a round-trip ticket to Taiwan.

Other winners in the contest were Mr. Thomas Anthony Malko (1st runner up), Mr. Farzam Nasirian (2nd runner up) and Mr. Abdul Wallace (3rd runner up). Special awards were also handed out during the event. People’s Choice Award went to Mr. Alvin de Joya while Mr. Personality was given to Mr. Manansala.

Mr. Manansala was actually a last-minute substitute to another contestant, Mr. Francis Soo, who had to withdraw from the competition due to a personal family emergency.

The event doubled as a menswear fashion show featuring the collection of M (Manuel Soler) Barretto, Mr. Jerome Lorico and Mr. Jeffrey Rogador The contestants showed off their physique in swimwear made by off their physique in swimwear by Mr. Ricky Abad. The contestants wore intricately designed Barong Tagalogs made by Mr. Barge Ramos during the question and answer portion.

Part of the proceeds of the pageant was donated to the Philippine National Red Cross Makati City Branch.

Mister International Philippines 2009 is presented by The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort and Spa and sponsored by Three Sixty Resto Bar, Freego Jeans, Uno Pizzeria, Graffi TEE, Maxcore Technologies, and Philosophy For Men.

For more information about the event, contact Mr. Mike Lim at (63917) 828-2588, email mikesylim@yahoo.com or visit the event website at http://www.misterphilippines.net.

Environmental Films Showcased at First Green Film Festival

Four (4) films touching on planet-related issues were featured at The 1^st Green Film Festival held at SM North EDSA on September 23, 2009. The movies shown at Cinema 4 of SM The Block were a combination of American and Filipino films aimed at creating awareness about the serious problems our planet Earth is currently facing and what can people do about it.

Spearheaded by the SM Cares' SM Environment Committee, in partnership with Unico Home Entertainment, Solar Entertainment Corporation (official United International Pictures distributor in the Philippines), Warner Bros. Pictures, Magnavision and SM Cinema, the Green Film Festival highlighted environmental issues, such as climate change, scarcity of water, environmental decay, and the need for people and nations to work together for a sustainable future.

Joining the SM Environment Committee for the Green Film Festival are the embassies of France, Japan and The Netherlands which contributed films shown during the event.

Some of the films shown during the festival were:

• The 11^th Hour, which was released in 2007 and narrated by Leonardo di Caprio. The movie presented visionary and practical solutions to restore the planet’s ecosystems;
• Home, a depiction of how the Earth's problems are all interlinked;
• Penguin, Penguin Paano Ka Ginawa is the Filipino version of the French documentary March of the Penguins, narrated by Sharon Cuneta. It followed the journey of a penguin to its breeding spot in Antarctica; and
• Abong (Small Home), which is a Filipino-Japanese art and cultural film about the Igorots of Mt. Province.

The movies Home and The 11th Hour were also shown at SM Megamall last September 30 along with Al Gore’s documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, and British Broadcasting Corporation’s Planet Earth. Screenings were also held at SM Mall of Asia last October 7, 2009.

The 1^st Green Film Festival is a project of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. For more information, call (632) 292-0023 or (632) 294-4367.

Tourism Students Gathered for LTSP National Convention

At least 450 students enrolled in tourism and hospitality management courses in various universities, colleges, and schools from around the country gathered for the 2nd League of Tourism Students of the Philippines (LTSP) National Convention held last September 26 – 28, 2009 at the Cebu Grand Convention Center in Cebu City.

Organized by the Tourism Educators and Movers Philippines (Team Philippines), the three-day event aims to update students with the latest trends in the global tourism industry, integrate to them the culture of tourism, and involve and empower the tourism academic sector towards development.

In her welcome remarks, Department of Tourism (DoT) 7 Director Dawnie Roa challenged the tourism students to strive for excellence despite the current global financial crisis once they get employment in the industry. Dir. Roa added, ''The tourism industry will continue to soar despite the crisis and negative stories churned out by the media. Don't be distracted, just do your best and prepare yourself as you embark on the tourism industry in the future,''

Topics discussed during the convention included Basic Exhibition Planning, ASEAN 2015 and Mutual Recognition of Tourism Professionals, Bidding for an International Event, and Organizing an Exhibition. Speakers during the convention were LTSP President Xander Xim Sigua, National Association for Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS) Chairman Emeritus Robert Lim Joseph, Premiere Events Plus Group, Inc., President Mr. Joel Pascual, and several others, who shared their experiences with the students.

''There are things that can be learned in schools and there are things that can be learned based on experiences of industry movers,'' he stressed. ''The convention, hopefully, will give the students a glimpse of the industry in reality,” said Mr. Joseph.

The 2nd LTSP National Convention is supported by the Department of Tourism, Cebu Provincial Government, Philippine Tourism Authority, and Philippine Airlines.

For more information about the event, contact the League of Tourism Students of the Philippines, Inc. Secretary General at (632) 510-5129 or (63921) 686-8944. Visit their website at http://www.ltsp.org.ph/