DOT most likely to change "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" logo

After much controversy and criticisms on the new tourism slogan “Pilipinas Kay Ganda,” the Department of Tourism (DOT) has openly expressed plans of revision and consultation for a better slogan and logo.

Though the agency has not yet withdrawn the slogan, DOT Assistant Secretary Benito Bengzon said they are now open for suggestions for the “national branding.”

“There is nothing definite yet. What is important is that the DOT is listening to all comments and we are open to suggestions,” Bengzon said.

Shortly after the launching of the new slogan, the new logo and website of DOT were suddenly pulled out following violent comments and criticisms. The wesite www.beautifulpilipinas.com was also deactivated because of errors in its contents.

In earlier interviews, DOT Secretary Alberto Lim said he and President Benigno Aquino III will discuss issues about the new logo.

According to Lim, DOT will most likely go back to the old slogan “Wow Philippines” in case the “Pilipinas Kay Ganda” logo is scrapped.

As for Malacañang, changing the slogan is not a problem especially because of the plagiarism issue in the new logo. DOT Undersecretary Vicente Romano III has earlier denied copying Poland's tourism logo.

“The color scheme and visual elements are markedly different,” Romano said.

A few days after releasing the country's new tourism brand, Lim and other DOT officers announced that the new slogan was not final, saying that “national branding” was up for discussion.

Before such controversies arose, Aquino himself announced the new tourism logo saying that it was a perfect timing to give the country a new image, considering the travel warnings of other countries against going to the Philippines.

Aquino was even consulted by the tourism agency about the slogan and logo, and he suggested some add-ons like the tarsier and a smiling face.


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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Israel, Dale G. Cebu Daily News. New DOT Tourism Logo, website withdrawn. (Posted November 18, 2010) from
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view/20101118-303893/New-DOT-tourism-logo-website--withdrawn

Jaymalin, Mayen. Philippine Star. Back to 'Wow Philippines'? DOT denies plagiarism. (Posted November 20, 2010) from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=631748&publicationSubCategoryId=63

NorthPhil Expo 2010 kicks off in Clark

One of the most anticipated travel fairs in the country, the North Philippines (NorthPhil) Tourism and Travel Expo 2010, opened its doors once again to various tourism sectors and enthusiasts last Nov. 12 at the SM City Clark, Pampanga.

Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) regional offices, NorthPhil 2010 aims to boost the tourism industry as well as show the culture and beauty of different northern provinces.

According to DOT Central Luzon Director Ronnie Tiotuico, the gathering of industry leaders from the government and private sector would “underscore the significance of the North Philippines as a major component of the country's tourism spectrum.”

The event was highlighted by talks from by DOT Asst. Secretary Benito Bengzon, Jr., Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo of Aurora province, and Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda. A number of parades and dance numbers Pangasinan State University and Zambales Performing Arts among others, served as entertainment for guests and mall-goers.

Some of the activities included presentation and talks from different organizations like the Zamboanga Resort Owners Associations (ZROA) and the Pampanga Agents and Travel Society.

Cultural presentations from the province of Tarlac, Pampanga, Cagayan Valley, and Zambales also added to the enjoyment of the guests.

For Tiotuico, developments from cities like Subic and Clark served as an “effective marketing tool.”

“[In return], the NorthPhil Expo promotes the region as a start-off point for a tour in the entire archipelago,” he said.

The expo is a project of DOT offices in Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos, Pangasinan, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and managed by the Philippine Exhibits and Theme parks Corporation.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the source for this article:
The Philippine Star. NorthPhil Expo 2010 kicks off at SM City Clark today. (Posted November 12, 2010 from)
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=629252&publicationSubCategoryId=87

Long Summer from El Nino Boost Tourism

Due to the dry spell brought about the El Nino phenomenon, the tourism industry, particularly the hotel and beach resorts in the provinces, is expected to gain momentum as early as now.

In an interview, Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary for Marketing and Promotion Oscar Palabyab said that local tourists are expected to rush to Boracay and Batangas, Bohol, Palawan and the entire Ilocos coastline, Bataan and other newer sites that have been developed. Furthermore, beach resorts and other establishments that rely on good weather for their activities will surely benefit from the current situation.

As such, beach and garden weddings as well as outdoor reception for weddings are highly attainable this season due to low rain possibility. Destination weddings will likely be more affordable since establishments will offer group packages and other promos for tourist, and even soon-to-weds.

The DOT also expects more foreign tourists this year as a result of the global economic recovery. This is due to the affordable airfare and travel packages available for almost every destination in the country. However, Usec. Palaybay advised Filipinos to avail of discounted airline fares by booking early.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Canoy, Jeff, TV Patrol Linggo. El Niño gives tourism an unexpected boost (Aired February 21, 2010) Retrieved February 22, 2010 from
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/lifestyle/02/21/10/el-ni%C3%B1o-gives-tourism-unexpected-boost#videoPlayer

Gov.ph. Long summer from El Nino is good for tourism (Posted February 6, 2010) Retrieved February 22, 2010 from
http://www.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2002888&Itemid=2

Philippine Information Agency. Feature: Not everything about El Nino is bad news (Posted February 7, 2010). Retrieved February 22, 2010 from
http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p100207.htm&no=14

Philippines Visited by 3 Million Tourist in 2009

About three million tourists visited the Philippines last year, two million less than the 5 million target.

In a statement, Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Oscar Payabyab said that the lower projection, he explained, was due to the contraction of outbound tourist traffic in the country’s usual market, particularly Japan and Korea. However, the decrease was made up the increase arrival of Chinese and Taiwanese tourists.

Usec. Payabyab admitted that the recent calamities had a negative effect on the tourism industry. “Baguio City, for instance, lost over 2,000 domestic tourists since it had to forego hosting the [21st Philippine] Advertising Congress because of the flooding and landslides,” he said.

Among local destinations, the Queen City of the South, Cebu City, drew the biggest number of visitors followed by Camarines Sur. The third most favored destination was Baguio City and the rest of the Cordillera Autonomous Region followed by Bohol and Palawan.

Despite the global financial crisis, tourist arrival statistics did not project negative digits primarily due to the positive role of local media and holiday economics. The media was able to highlight the beautiful destinations in the country and through reports, warned tourists where violent incidents occur. On the other hand, holiday economics enabled workers to plan their vacations for the long weekend ahead.

Meanwhile, Malacanang associated the stable tourism growth to better infrastructure, liberalized airline industry, and improved tourism facilities.

From 2004 to August of 2009, P555 billion worth of investment went to the development of transportation, tourism eco-zones, accommodation and other related facilities. The liberalization of the airline industry has resulted in the opening of air routes to and from major tourist markets, including Incheon, Busan, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Kaohsiung. Tourism-related infrastructure projects such as construction of hotels and other facilities have also made the Philippines as a viable destination to foreign tourists.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Inquirer.net. 3 million tourists visit RP in 2009. (Posted January 3, 2010) Retrieved January 4, 2010 from
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20100103-245257/3-million-tourists-visit-RP-in-2009

Hermitanio, Maui, Philippine Online Chronicles. Improved infra lured 3 million tourists to RP in 2009. (Posted January 3, 2010) Retrieved January 4, 2010 from
http://www.thepoc.net/breaking-news/local/3432-improved-infra-lured-3-million-tourists-to-rp-in-2009.html

Philippine Information Agency. Tourists flock to RP in 2009 with improved facilities (Posted January 2, 2010) Retrieved January 4, 2010 from
http://pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p100102.htm&no=02

Good News Pilipinas. 3 million tourists visit RP in 2009. (Posted December 31, 2009) Retrieved January 4, 2010 from
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=9783

Gonzales, Mia, Business Mirror. DOT expects flat growth for tourism in ’09 (Posted December 30, 2009) Retrieved January 4, 2010 from
http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/economy/20342-dot-expects-flat-growth-for-tourism-in-09.html

Bigger and Better PHITEX 2009 All Set this September

The Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC), will spearhead the 9^th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX ‘09) on September 2 – 4, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

PHITEX is an annual marketing event to strengthen the country’s brand image and to encourage participants to promote affordable and competitive tour packages. This year’s theme is “Explore, Experience... The Philippines is made to be traveled”. The country’s unique 7,107-island geography is ideal for those seeking adventure, diving, history, dining and shopping. DOT is spearheading the promotions to highlight some of the archipelago's unique island attractions that a traveler can explore and experience.

The main component of PHITEX is the Travel Exchange or (TRAVEX), where sellers of Philippine tourism packages meet up with international Buyers in one-on-one scheduled business appointments. In addition to TRAVEX, pre- and post-conference tours to key Philippine attractions and destinations are available for the Buyers to experience first-hand the beauty of the islands and the warmth of its people.

The Philippine Travel Exchange 2009 is supported by Philippine Airlines, OksPinoy, Inc., Philippine Tour Operators Association, Philippine Travel Agencies Association, TTG Asia Media Pte. Ltd., and Hotel Sales and Marketing Association International, Inc.

For more information, contact the Phitex 2009 Secretariat at 632) 525-7320 / 525-9318 loc. 270, 240, email phitex2009@dotpcvc.gov.ph or visit their website, http://www.okspinoy.com/phitex/

Bohol Chosen as Location for Taiwan Ice Cream TV Ad

The province of Bohol, a budding Philippine wedding destination, was chosen by a top ice cream company to serve as their location for their next television advertisement.

DuRoyal, tagged as Taiwan's number one ice cream company by Breakthrough Magazine, creates a yearly summer campaign for their products. For this year, they chose the island of Bohol for their location. Aside from shooting the advertisement, the company will be giving away a special trip package to Bohol to one hundred lucky Taiwanese.

According to Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, DOT teamed up with the Taiwanese crew during the three-day duration of the shoot to strengthen the country’s international marketing links and at the same time, to feature the Philippines’ attraction. Secretary Durano stated that the decision of the company to feature Bohol reaffirms the country's position as a premier summer destination.

On the other hand, DOT Team Asia Pacific Marketing Head Director Rica Bueno said that it is a privilege for the Philippines to be featured in the ad campaign of one of the most highly distinguished brands in Taiwan. The said campaign, which runs until August 30, 2009, featured the spectacular views of Bohol Beach Club and Panglao Island Nature Resort.

The province of Bohol is most famous for its Chocolate Hills and Philippine Tarsier (Tarsius syrichta). Aside from this, the province also boasts of pristine white sand beaches located in the island of Panglao.

To see the DuRoyal Ice Cream Bohol commercial, click here.

Bohol Wedding Articles

Bohol: All Year Paradise
Spotlight: Bohol Beach Club

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Manila Bulletin. Bohol in Taiwan's ice cream ad. (Posted August 15, 2009) Retrieved August 19, 2009 from
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/215958/bohol-taiwans-ice-cream-ad
Reposted at Biyahilo.com at
http://www.byahilo.com/2009/08/14/taiwans-duroyal+ice-cream-showcases-bohol-attractions/

LakbayPilipinas.com. Taiwan's No. 1 ice cream showcases Bohol's attractions in their Ad campaign. Retrieved August 19, 2009 from
http://www.lakbaypilipinas.com/blog/2009/08/14/taiwan%E2%80%99s-no-1-ice-cream-showcases-bohol%E2%80%99s-attractions-in-their-ad-campaign/

Valencia, Lyndia, Philippine News Agency, Bohol's attractions showcased in ad campaign for Taiwan’s No. 1 ice cream (Posted August 14, 2009) Retrieved August 19, 2009 from
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?&sid=6&pfn=224007&arch=1&go=Go&search_arch=bohol&andor=and&mdte_arch=8&ddte_arch=0&ydte_arch=2009

DOT sets RP as Premier Wedding Destination at Hong Kong Travel Fair

The Department of Tourism continues to promote the Philippines as a premier wedding destination. Its latest move to tap the growing Asian market was during the 23^rd Hong Kong International Travel Expo (ITE) held last June 11 – 14, 2009 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.

With the theme, “Romantic Philippines”, the Philippine delegation, led by DOT Secretary Joseph 'Ace' Durano, featured the country's unique wedding getaways and exhilarating thrills, which captivated Asian couples.

“Our stunning landscapes truly make it a sought-after wedding destination. Couples would choose only the best for life’s most memorable events, and we are certain they would never run out of exciting discoveries in our many islands,” Secretary Durano said in an interview.

The Philippine booth showcased the works of leading fashion designer Renee Salud alongside with top local acts performing native dances and rendering Kundimans, or Filipino love songs.

Among the participating Philippine hotels and resorts include Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, The Manila Hotel, El Nido Resort, Boracay Grand Vista Resort and Spa, Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa, Le Soleil de Boracay, Hotel Seraph Boracay, Waterfront Hotels and Casino, and Plantation Bay Resort and Spa.

Travel operators Shroff International Travel Care, Inc., Castro Travel Solutions Agency, Le Soleil de Boracay, Happy Sun Travel and Tours, and Planet Holiday, as well as carriers Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air were also present during the four-day event.

The 23^rd ITE, organized by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd., gathered over 650 exhibitors from 50 countries and region from Africa, America, Asia, Europe , and Middle East. The event drew over 13,000 buyers, trade, and corporate visitors.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Ramos, Lily, Philippine News Agency. "Romantic Philippines" sets RP as premier wedding destination. Retrieved June 22, 2009 from
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?&sid=6&pfn=212232&arch=1&go=Go&search_arch=ROMANTIC&andor=and&mdte_arch=0&ddte_arch=0&ydte_arch=0
Reposted by Positive News Media at
http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Tourism_24/Romantic_Philippines_sets_RP_as_premier_wedding_destination.shtml

International Travel Expo Hong Kong Press Release. ITE & ITE MICE 2009 Visitors Undeterred by Swine Flu and Financial Crisis. (in PDF format) Retrieved June 22, 2009 from
http://www.itehkmice.com/doc/press_release/Post_show_17Jun09.pdf

Koumelis, Theodore, Travel Daily News International. Hong Kong’s only international travel expo open next week. Retrieved June 22, 2009 from
http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/31310-Hong-Kong%E2%80%99s-only-international-travel-expo-open-next-week

RP Hailed as Asia's Most Popular Destination in World Trade Fair 2009

In the advent of wedding destination, the Philippines has just given soon-to-wed couples from all over the world a better reason why they should hold their special day here. More than its beautiful churches, beaches and sceneries, professional local wedding suppliers, and popular wedding culture, the country has recently been named as the most popular destination in Asia at this year's World Travel Fair (WTF) in Shanghai, China.

Held last April 9 – 11, 2009 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, the Philippines was recognized as the most popular destination in Asia after a public vote and an evaluation process done by professional jurors from the Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration and VNU Exhibitions Europe.

In a statement released by the Department of Tourism (DOT), Secretary Joseph ‘Ace’ Durano attributed the win to the country's competitive tour pricing, the remarkable progress of the transportation sector, and the Filipino's friendliness and hospitality to visitors.

Furthermore, Sec. Durano said, “the Philippines is one of the fastest growing destinations in China’s outbound travel industry, recording a 74% month-on-month growth rate in visa issuances for February of this year. We are also the nearest tropical beach country for the Chinese, as Manila is only 2 hours away from Guangzhou, while Cebu is only 3 hours away from Shanghai.”

DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque Jr. added that during last year’s World Trade Fair, the Philippines garnered the Best Leisure Destination for Boracay; Top 10 Island Getaways for Chinese Summer Travel for Bohol; the only Asian entry in the list of premier destinations in the acclaimed World Traveller Magazine; and Top 10 Most Searched Destination among Shanghai online users in Baidu, the biggest search engine in China.

Ms. Arlene Alipio, head of DOT Team China, disclosed that the outbound travel of China has been profitable for the country. Ms. Alipio cited that recent statistics from the China National Tourism Administration shows that the number of Chinese travelers reached 34.4 million in the first nine months of 2009.

Meanwhile, Turkey was awarded as The Best Leisure Tour Destination while Switzerland was hailed as the Most Popular Tourism Destination in Europe.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Department of Tourism. RP is Asia’s Most Popular Destination, Makes mark in World Travel Fair 2009 (Posted April 17, 2009) Retrieved April 18, 2009 from
http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/news/news2.asp?id=560

Philippine News Agency. RP: Asia's most popular destination. (Posted April 17, 2009) Retrieved April 18, 2009 from
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?&sid=6&pfn=199182&arch=1&go=Go&search_arch=destination&andor=and&mdte_arch=4&ddte_arch=19&ydte_arch=2009

Manila Bulletin. RP is Asia’s Most Popular Destination. (Posted April 18, 2009) Retrieved April 18, 2009 from
http://mb.com.ph/articles/202838/rp-asia-s-most-popular-destination

ABS-CBN News. RP most popular destination in Asia. (Posted April 18, 2009) Retrieved April 18, 2009 from
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/business/04/18/09/rp-most-popular-destination-asia

Travel Biz Monitor. World Travel Fair names Philippines ‘most popular destination in Asia. (Posted April 18, 2009) Retrieved April 18, 2009 from
http://www.travelbizmonitor.com/world-travel-fair-names-philippines-most-popular-destination-in-asia-6112

Goode News Pilipinas. RP is voted Asia’s most popular destination (Posted April 19, 2009) Retrieved April 19, 2009 from
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp/?p=5032

Philippines Became First Host of World Health Tourism Congress in Asia

In the effort to place the country as the premier health and wellness tourism destination in Asia, the Philippines was the first country in Asia Pacific to host the World Health Tourism Congress held last March 26 – 28, 2009 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City.

Organized by Aura International, in partnership with the Department of Tourism http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph, the World Health Tourism Congress is an exclusive congress where buyers and vendors of medical and wellbeing services have the opportunity to interact in a one-to-one meeting format as well as during workshops and informal gatherings.

During the event, corporate buyers, or those who decide when and where to send their citizens, client, and employees for medical travel, had the chance to meet up with solution providers, which consists of spas, hotel, medical center, and clinics, and forged partnerships in order to find cost effective institutions which can deliver the needs of their clients seeking medical attention. Also, participants were introduced to the latest news and updates about the health and tourism industry.

The first annual was hosted in Germany last May 25 – 27, 2006, the Second annual was hosted in Cyprus last March 23 – 25, 2007 and the Third annual was hosted in Spain last April 4 - 6, 2008.

The 4th World Health Tourism Congress is sponsored by the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines (Asian Hospital and Medical Center, The Medical City, Health and Leisure - Medical Tourism Integrator, Makati Medical Center, Asian Eye Institute, Philippine Retirement Authority, Manila Doctors Hospital, Capitol Medical Center, Tagaytay Hospital and Medical Center, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, and St. Francis Cabrini M.Cat), Prince Court Medical Centre, Cyprus Tourism Organization, Cebu Health and Wellness Council Inc., Jayan International, Parkway Holdings, Singapore Medicine, Take Care, Korea Health Industry Development Institute, Bellevue Medical Center, ARDI Health Services Inc., Kliniken des Bezirks Oberbayern, Zulu Kingdom, and Discovery Suites.

RP Foreign Visitors at High for 2008

Based on the latest data from the Department of Tourism (DOT), a total of 3.14 million foreign tourists visited the Philippines last year.

The increase is attributed to the increase of tourist arrivals from European countries such as Russia, which rose up to 34%, France by 19%, and United Kingdom by 10%. On the other hand, visitors from United Arab Emirates and Vietnam also increased by 28%.

South Koreans are still the most frequent visitors of the country, with 611,629 arrivals in 2008. Next in line are USA (578,246 arrivals), and Japan (359,205 arrivals).

Chinese and Taiwanese tourist arrival in 2008 expanded to 163, 689 and 118,782, respectively. The DOT worked with Chinese travel agents and airlines to mount new charter flights between Shanghai and Nanning to Cebu, Guangzhou to Clark, and Nanning and Kunming to Manila. In addition, the department worked closely with Mandarin Airlines to increase chartered flights between Taipei to Kalibo, Taipei to Cebu, and Kaoshiung to Cebu.

Other countries that posted significant increase in tourist arrivals are Australia, Hong Kong, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and Indonesia.

Earnings of other tourist-based industries improved with the growth of tourist arrivals. The English as secondary language (ESL) program generated PhP. 180.8 million, with Baguio and Bacolod City garnering the highest profit. Dive shop operators in Cebu and Bohol generated PhP. 8.8 million in gross receipts. The medical tourism industry also had it share of good revenue. DOT-accredited medical tourism facilities in Manila earned PhP. 108.8 million from 1, 071 foreign patient-tourists who sought medical services here in the country last year.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Department of Tourism. Philippine Tourism: Stable Amidst a Global Tourism Downturn (in PDF format) Retrieved February 6, 2009 from
http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/dot/2008YrEnd.pdf

ABS-CBN News. RP tourism growth takes a hit from global crisis (Posted February 4, 2009) Retrieved February 6, 2009 from
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/business/02/04/09/growth-foreign-tourist-arrivals-down-15-2008

Inquirer.net (Newswire from Agence France-Presse) Tourist arrivals hit 3.14M in 2008 (Posted February 4, 2009) Retrieved February 6, 2009 from
http://business.inquirer.net/money/topstories/view/20090204-187393/Tourist-arrivals-hit-314M-in-2008

GMA News.tv RP foreign tourist arrivals barely improve in 2008 (Posted February 4, 2009) Retrieved February 6, 2009 from
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/147336/RP-foreign-tourist-arrivals-barely-improve-in-2008

Alave, Kristine L.,Philippine Daily Inquirer. Tourism up; 3.14 million visitors in ’08 (Posted February 5, 2009) Retrieved February 6, 2009 from
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view/20090205-187504/Tourism-up-314-million-visitors-in-08

RP Tourism Laurels for 2008

Several tourist destinations in the Philippines gave Filipinos a new source of pride as they received recognition from international organizations and institutions last 2008e. Here are the top stories of tourism achievements in 2008.

RP Cities featured in Korean Travel Magazine
South Korea’s top travel magazine Ab-road began its 2008 line-up with the Philippines as its cover story and the San Agustin Church as cover photo. The article, “Insider’s Guide to Philippines”, featured three Metro cities (Manila, Pasay, and Makati) plus other interesting sites all over the country, which included the Chocolate Hills of Bohol and El Nido in Palawan. The article also gave a list of must-try Filipino dishes, interesting shopping centers such as Power Plant Mall, maps and port schedules.

Ab-road Magazine, managed by RoadABC Media is a license of Ab-road, a Japan-based magazine company that forged partnership with the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) to encourage Japanese couples to get married in the country. (read related article here)

Boracay, Palawan included in Best Holiday Destinations
Two popular destinations here in the Philippines, Boracay and Palawan, were included in the Top 10 Holiday Destinations by Smart Travel Asia. The poll, released September 2008, ranked Boracay and Palawan as the seventh and eight best holiday destination in Asia. Bali, Indonesia garnered the top spot with 14 percent of the total votes.

According to Smart Travel Asia, the poll results reflect the online voters' "substantial hands-on travel experience, word-of-mouth at dinnertime chats, as well as an idea of the brand drawn from advertising and editorial exposure in the media, which is mostly online." Smart Travel Asia is the region’s only dedicated online travel magazine with over one million readers worldwide.

Two Mindanao Landmarks recognized as possible UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Mount Apo Natural Park and Mount Hamiguitan Wildlife Sanctuary were selected to be included in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites last October 9, 2008. Mt. Apo, a volcanic mountain rising to 3,143.6 meters above sea level, hosts five (5) distinct forest formations. It is considered to be one of the richest botanical mountains in the region hosting hundreds of rare, endemic and threatened species of flora. These include the Vanda sanderiana (Waling-Waling) which is recognized as the “Queen of Philippine Orchids” and recommended by plant enthusiasts as the Philippine National Flower.

Mount Hamiguitan, on the other hand, is the only protected forest noted for its unique bonsai field or ‘pygmy’ forest of 100-year old trees in an ultramafic soil. One of the endangered bird species located here is the Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi). It has been identified by Conservation International as one of the Philippines’ ‘hotspots’ for conservation and protection.

Cebu Hailed as one of Top Islands in Asia.
Conde Nast Traveler, an international New York-published magazine, hailed Cebu as the seventh Top Island last November 2008 for the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. (read related article here). The Visayan island bested Langkawi of Malaysia, Borneo and Lombok of Indonesia.

According to Condé Nast Traveler Editor in Chief Klara Glowczewska, the Readers’ Choice Award “celebrate[s] the destinations, lodgings, and modes of transportation that manage to exceed our expectations”.

RP Dive Sites declared as World’s Best
Sport Diver, the official magazine of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Diving Society, named Apo Island Marine Sanctuary in Dumaguete City and Malapascua in Cebu as two of the must-see dive sites throughout the world. The two sites were part of the magazine issue, “The Ultimate Dive Destinations Presents: 100 Dives To Do Before You Die”. The United Kingdom-based magazine describes the special edition magazine as “a collection of truly awe-inspiring wrecks, reefs, and marine life encounters.”

According to DOT Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, Malapascua was chosen for its consistent sightings of thresher shark while Apo Island was chosen for its picturesque corals and marine life presence.

Philippine Destinations Nominated for New 7 Wonders of Nature
Mayon Volcano in Albay, Taal Volcano in Batangas, Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Tubbataha Reef in Palawan, Mount Pinatubo in Pampanga, and Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan were nominated to become one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

For several months, several organizations, including the DOT, campaigned for these natural wonders to become part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River was constantly in top position while the rest of the nominees were not far behind. The first phase of voting, done via internet, was concluded last December 31, 2008.

After months of constant campaign, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is the country’s official entry for the New7Wonders of Nature. The NewOpenWorld Corporation, (NOWC), the company managing the New7Wonders campaign, released the list of nominees that qualified for the second phase of voting last January 7, 2009.

According to the New 7 Wonders website, out of the original 441 entries, 261 qualified for the second phase of voting. Then, the New7Wonders of Nature Panel of Experts, under the leadership of Prof. Federico Mayor, former Director-General of UNESCO, will review the top 77 nominees and choose the 21 finalists, to be announced on July 21, 2009. Voting will continue throughout 2010 and into 2011. During this time, the New7Wonders World Tour will visit each of the Finalists to allow them to present themselves to the voters across the globe. The New 7 Wonders of Nature will be announced in 2011.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Wikipilipinas. Tourism triumphs of 2008
http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Tourism_Triumphs_of_2008
Re-posted at Manila Bulletin (Travel Section)
http://www.mb.com.ph/TOUR20090128146708.html

AB-ROAD Magazine January 2008 Issue summary (text in Korean)
http://www.abroad.co.kr/magazine/2008_01/p1.asp

Good News Pilipinas. Top Korean travel mag features RP cities (Posted March 17, 2008)
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp/?p=744

Dizon, David, abs-cbnNEWS.com. Boracay, Palawan among Asia's top vacation spots: poll (Posted September 17, 2008)
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Smart TraveL Asia Best Travel Brands 2008.
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UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Tentative List for World Heritage Sites in Philippines (Posted October 9, 2008)
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Costas, Boboi. Cebu Daily News. Condé Nast Magazine's Survey. (Posted November 2, 2008) Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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Jaymalin, Mayen, Philstar.com. 2 more RP sites among 100 top dive spots (Posted November 18, 2008)
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Domingo, Ronnel, Philippine Daily Inquirer. 2 RP sites make it to ‘must dive’ list (Posted November 18, 2008)
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Lontayao , Rommel C. The Manila Times. Two RP diving sites among world’s best (Posted November 18, 2008)
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/nov/18/yehey/metro/20081118met6.html

ABS-CBN News. RP sites on world's top 100 diving destinations (Posted November 19, 2008)
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/11/19/08/two-rp-sites-worlds-top-100-diving-destinations

Good News Pilipinas. Malapascua & Apo Island among world’s top dive spots (Posted November 21, 2008)
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp/?p=3471

ABS-CBN News with reports from Abner Mercado, and Umagang Kay Ganda. RP's strong contender in New7Wonders tops list of nominees. (Posted December 31, 2008)
http://news.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/12/31/08/rps-strong-contender-new7wonders-nature-tops-list

Business Mirror. Subterranean River represents RP to the world (Posted January 7, 2009)
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Re-posted at ABS-CBN News at
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Department of Tourism. Puerto Princesa Underground River Makes History - Official Philippine Nominee to the New 7 Wonders of Nature. (Posted January 8, 2009)
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/news/news2.asp?id=556

New7Wonders. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Live Ranking
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DOT Encourages Pinoys to Start Planning for Holiday Getaways

Couples who want to have a second honeymoon or simply spend some time together will have more time to prepare it this year. After the early release of the list of holidays for 2009, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has encouraged Filipinos to begin planning their out-of-town vacations.

"We urge our countrymen to explore the 7,107 islands they haven’t seen or would like to revisit. We have the beaches, mountains, countryside, heritage sites, caves, rivers; food trips, urban verve – almost everything a traveler would want to experience, the Philippines has it. We advise people to book ahead to get the best and affordable tour packages and promotional fares,” DOT Secretary Ace Durano said in a DOT news release.

Sec. Durano adds that domestic tourism will not only strengthen family ties but will help alleviate the economic crisis being experienced by the country as well, since an increased in spending will help local businesses and in turn, will create jobs. Mr. Durano has advised hotels, spas, tour operators, and other allied industries to prepare during the long weekend and holidays to be able to accommodate the expected guests. Also, the Secretary encourages these establishments to offer group tour packages since most vacationers travel with their families and friends.

Meanwhile, Mr. Eduardo Jarque, Jr., DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, stated that while Boracay, Palawan, Davao, Cebu, Bohol, Vigan, Baguio, and Manila are the top destinations in the country, DOT is advocating discovery of other unexplored provinces. Other suggested sites include Siquijor, Camiguin, Quezon, Zamboanga del Sur and del Norte, Camarines Sur, Batangas, Mindoro, Dumaguete, Leyte and Negros for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts; loilo, Bacolod, and Laguna for history-inclined tourists; and Sagada, Cavite, Bataan, Bulacan, Mountain Province, Romblon, Batanes, and Marinduque for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Malacañang has released last December 24, 2008, through Proclamation No. 1699 the list of approved holidays for this year.

• April 4-6, Saturday – Monday (Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor)
• April 9-12, Thursday – Sunday (Holy Week)
• May 1-3, Friday – Sunday (Labor Day)
• June 12-14, Friday – Sunday (Independence Day)
• August 21-23, Friday – Sunday (Ninoy Aquino Day)
• August 29-31, Saturday – Monday (National Heroes' Day)
• October 31-November 2, Saturday – Monday (All Saints’ Day)
• November 28-30, Saturday – Monday (Bonifacio Day)
• December 24-27, Thursday – Sunday (Christmas Eve)
• December 30, 2009-Jan 3, 2010, Wednesday to Sunday (New Year’s Eve/Rizal Day)

Happy Holidays!

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Department of Tourism. 'Plan early for long holidays,' DOT. (Posted January 20, 2009) Retrieved January 26, 2009 from
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/news/news2.asp?id=558

Manila Bulletin, Plan early for long holidays. (Posted January 21, 2009) Retrieved January 26, 2009 from
http://www.mb.com.ph/archive_pages.php?url=http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2009/01/21/TOUR20090121146068.html
Re-posted at Manila Bulletin Travel Mag
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Re-posted at Positive News Media
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Malaya, Plan early for this year’s long holidays. (Posted January 28, 2009) Retrieved January 28, 2009 from
http://www.malaya.com.ph/feb02/trav2.htm

DOT Furthers RP as New Wedding Destination

In recent months, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has continuously promoted the Philippines as a premier wedding destination throughout Asia and the United States.

Last November 1 and 2, 2008, DOT joined the 6th and 7th leg of the Great Bridal Expo in the United States. During the event held at the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles and Anaheim Convention Center in California, the Department, together with Rita Neri Events Planners, set up a booth themed “Destination Philippines” which offered the products and services of some of the Philippine’s premiere wedding suppliers, such as Shangri-La Hotel and Resorts, Club Punta Fuego, Lito Sy Photography, Palamuti by Jing Tañada (florist), Forsc Ink (sound systems), Pastry Bin (cake specialist), Imacron videos, wedding gown designers Rajo Laurel and Frankie de Leon, Printsonalities, and Wink: Written in Ink (invitations designer and printer). Philippine Airlines also supported the Philippine team for the said event.

The country’s booth stood side by side with well-known American wedding suppliers JC Penney: Wedding Registry and David’s Bridal.

All the suppliers’ brochures were placed in one “Destination Philippines” shopping bag that they gave out to interested couples. The bag also contained guidelines for getting married in the Philippines, with practical information on Catholic and legal requirements for couples, whether Filipino, foreign or military.

DOT aims to present the country to Filipino-Americans (Fil-Ams) and North Americans as a great wedding and honeymoon destination. According to Rita Neri, the mentality of Filipinos, Fil-Ams included, is that “you [Filipinos] haven’t gotten married unless you walk in the church in Manila”. She adds that wedding costs here in the country is cheaper and since a lot of Fil-Ams spend their Christmas and New Year vacations in the Philippines, most decide to tie the knot during these months.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Jambora, Anne. Phlippine Daily Inquirer. RP: from nature trip to wedding spot (Posted December 3, 2008) Retrieved December 8, 2008 from
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/diaspora/diaspora/view/20081203-175816/RP-from-nature-trip-to-wedding-spot
Re-posted at Showbiz and Style Section of Inquirer.net at
http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20081129-175192/Philippines-top-bridal-destination

Jamora-Garceau, Therese. The Philippine Star. Nice place for a white wedding (November 16, 2008) p. 1
Posted at Philstar.com Retrieved December 8, 2008 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=415755&publicationSubCategoryId=87

DOT Aims at $6.6 B Japanese Wedding Market

The Department of Tourism DOT) has been working to take part in the estimated $6.6 billion Japanese wedding market.

The initial step to tap the Japanese wedding market began last September 18 – 21 when the Department participated in the Japanese Association of Travel Agents (JATA) World Tourism Congress and Travel Fair 2008 held at the Conference Tower of Tokyo Big Sights in Tokyo, Japan.

Based on several published articles, reports from the Japan Tourism Board, Japanese couples who hold their weddings abroad spend an average of ¥1,474,400.00 or $15,930.00 for the entire package. Couples spend an average of ¥566,000 or $6,115.00 for air fare and accommodations and another ¥215,000 or $2,320.00 for their wedding outfits. These couples spend as much as ¥791,000 or $8,550.00 for the wedding details. Most Japanese couples prefer beach and island destinations, making the country a possible venue for their special day.

DOT Secretary Ace Durano has made Cebu as the wedding capital for Japanese couples. Aside from the Queen City of the South, other destinations in the Philippines which include Boracay, Bohol and Davao are being marketed by the Department as a wedding destination.

In response, Dir. Benito Bengzon Jr, head of DOT Team Japan, said, during his interview with the press, "Compared to other countries, the Philippines offers a complete array of quality wedding products and services at a reasonable cost. Our magnificent views and picturesque beaches also offer the perfect mood and setting for weddings.” He adds, “We are certain the Philippines is indeed an attractive and ideal wedding location for Japanese couples; our beach resorts all have the necessary services such as experienced wedding coordinators which effectively caters to the needs of the clients.”

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Manila Bulletin. RP wants bigger slice of 6.6 billion Japan wedding market (Posted October 14, 2008) Retrieved December 8, 2008 from
http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2008/10/14/TOUR20081014137904.html

Philippine Daily Inquirer. RP to get bigger slice of $6.6 billion Japan wedding market (Published November 2, 2008)

Business World. Manila targets Japan’s $6.6-B wedding mart (Vol. XXII, No. 54) p. 6/S1
Posted at GMANews.tv at
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/126150/Manila-targets-Japans-66-B-wedding-mart

DOT Taps Youth Market via MTV

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has forged a partnership with MTV Networks to attract young travelers around the world to come and experience the Philippines.

MTV Networks’ new “hip contemporary” global campaign – MTV Revelations – set to be launched in February 2009, features 12 countries: Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, U.K. and U.S.A.

MTV Revelations will use a series of TV spots featuring MTV VJs who will talk about their personal experiences in these countries. In addition, a variety of web activities, which include MTV's Music Mixer and MTV Video Widgets, synergized with local relevance, will reflect the different style, culture and tone of each country.

The partnership was announced by DOT Secretary Ace Durano and Bill Roedy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MTV Networks International during the World Travel Market held last November 10 -14 at ExCel London.

According to Sec. Durano, as stated in his interview with the press, the partnership is a “strategic fit” because it will enable the Department to reach out to the youth who enjoys a higher disposable income as well as being the most avid travelers of today. "MTV know its demographic best. Its VJs and onscreen personalities, for instance, have the credibility to reach out to the same youth market we are targeting. “Mr. Durano adds.

On the other hand, Mr. Roedy said, “We are delighted that through the international reach of MTV, they can work with the DOT to promote the Philippines to such a targeted youth audience across so many countries."

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

PR Newswire.com Philippines Department of Tourism Partners with MTV Networks for 2009 Global Campaign (Posted November 10, 2008) Retrieved December 1, 2008
http://news.prnewswire.com/DisplayReleaseContent.aspx?ACCT=ind_focus.story&STORY=/www/story/11-10-2008/0004922183&EDATE
Re-posted (November 12, 2008) by Examiner National at
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Hein, Kenneth. Brandweek. Philippines Tourism Taps MTV (Posted November 12, 2008) Retrieved December 1, 2008
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Re-posted (November 12, 2008) by AdWeek at
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RP Resorts, Hotels Lauded by Readers of An International Travel Magazine

The Philippines has proven once again that it is still one of the best travel destinations in the world. Recently, several resorts and hotels located in the country were included in the Top Resorts, Islands, and Hotels in this year’s Readers’ Choice Award by Condé Nast Traveler, an international New York-published magazine.

Among the winners were Plantation Bay Resort and Spa in Cebu, which ranked 16th out of 25 in the Top Asian Resort Category and Cebu, which ranked 7th for the Top Islands Category. Pan Pacific Manila (44th), Makati Shangri-La (67th), and The Peninsula Manila (98th) were chosen as three of the Top Hotels in Asia.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai, Thailand bagged the top spot for Top Asian Resort. Maldives was hailed as Top Island Destination in the Asia – Indian Ocean region and Oberoi Udaivilas, found in Udaipur, India was declared by Condé Nast readers as the Top Hotel in Asia.

According to Condé Nast Traveler Editor in Chief Klara Glowczewska, the Readers’ Choice Award “celebrate[s] the destinations, lodgings, and modes of transportation that manage to exceed our expectations”.

Tracing it roots in 1988, the annual Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards is derived from its Readers' Choice Survey, the largest independent poll of consumers' preferences in the U.S. This year, 32,633 readers participated in the survey. Selected sample of its subscribers were given questionnaires containing a list of candidates. Voters will nominate the resort, island, hotel, city, car rental agencies, and cruise line of their choice. Write-ins were allowed. The candidates that reached a specified minimum number of votes were rated based on a 5-point scale and the results were averaged and tabulated.

The three Philippine hotels were judged based on food/dining, location, overall design, rooms, and service. For the resorts, the criteria used were activities/facilities, food/dining, location, overall design, rooms, and service

Hotels and resorts were sub-categorized based on their location: Europe; Mainland U.S.; Hawaii; Canada; Caribbean; Atlantic Ocean; Mexico, Central and South America; Asia; Middle East; Africa; and Australia and Pacific.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

Costas, Boboi. Cebu Daily News. Condé Nast Magazine's Survey. (Posted November 2, 2008) Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
http://www.cdn.ph/photostore/news_details.php?id=1134
Re posted in INQUIRER.net at
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Condé Nast Traveler: Readers' Choice Awards - Top Resorts. Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
http://www.concierge.com/tools/travelawards/readerschoice/resorts#asia

Condé Nast Traveler: Readers' Choice Awards - Top Islands (Asia - Indian Ocean). Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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Condé Nast Traveler: Readers' Choice Awards - Top Hotels (Asia). Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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Condé Nast Traveler: Readers' Choice Awards - Methodology. Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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'Condé Nast' poll rates Plantation Bay as one of the top resorts in Asia. Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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Condé Nast rates Plantation Bay as one of the top resorts in Asia. Retrieved November 16, 2008 from
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Tourism Heads Focus on Climate, Poverty and Women at International Cebu Forum

Representatives from different countries tackled issues on climate change, poverty alleviation, and role of women in tourism at the 6th International Tourism Forum for Parliamentarians and Local Authorities (ITF-PLA) held last October 22-25, 2008 at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa, Cebu.

Delegates from 157 countries attended the biennial Tourism Forum, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT), City Government of Cebu (http://www.cebu.gov.ph/), the Philippine Congress, and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

President Gloria Macapagal - Arroyo during the opening ceremony stated that the ITF-PLA should not only focus on current issues affecting the tourism industry but to attend to the dilemmas that will continue to influence and have an effect on tourism in the years to come. Furthermore, she emphasized to “keep our faith in tourism as a powerful instrument to alleviate poverty.”

UNWTO Secretary General Francesco Frangialli, DOT Secretary Joseph ‘Ace’ Durano, and House Representative Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia gave the keynote addresses on Policy and Legislation for Tourism Development.

First held at Cadiz, Spain in 1995, the ITF-PLA assembles tourism heads, representatives and lawmakers from 154 member states and more than 350 affiliate members categorized under Business, Destination, and Education Council.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

UN World Tourism Organization. Affiliate Members Directory. Retrieved on October 24, 2008
http://www.unwto.org/afiliados/directory/directory.php?lang=I
http://www.unwto.org/afiliados/about_us/en/about_us.php#

Cruz, Irene Sino. Visayas Bureau, INQUIRER.net. International tourism meet seen to boost Cebu, Bohol. Retrieved on October 24, 2008
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20080205-116971/International-tourism-meet-seen-to-boost-Cebu-Bohol

Office of the President. PGMA's Speech during the Opening Ceremony of the UN-WTO 6th International Tourism for Parliamentarians and Local Authorities (October 22, 2008). Retrieved on October 24, 2008
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Gov.Ph News. PGMA to open 6th U.N. tourism forum in Cebu Wednesday. Retrieved on October 24, 2008
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GMANews.TV. UN tourism meet in Cebu to tackle global issues. Retrieved on October 24, 2008
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Lato, Cris Evert. Cebu Daily News. Posted on INQUIRER.net. Cebu to host global forum on tourism development. Retrieved on October 24, 2008
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/enterprise/view/20080910-159773/Cebu-to-host-global-forum-on-tourism-development

Western Samar Dresses Up Locals, Roads for Tourism

Couples who are looking for an adventure-driven honeymoon may want to consider Western Samar as the Regional Director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Samar governors, have been preparing the whole province to become a new tourist destination.

DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes stated in her interview with Business World, that Samareños have started training as kayak operators, tour guides, cave guides and rescue team members to enhance “community-based tourism” in the region.

Together with the Philippine National Red Cross and the Sohoton Services Association, residents of Basey, Western Samar were given kayaks, protective gears, uniforms, tourism-related seminars and first aid training to ensure safety and enjoyment of tourists.

The Department is primarily promoting the Sohoton National Park. This 840-hectare marvel is a combination of caves, underground rivers, waterfalls and unique limestone formations that would surely fascinate nature-loving couples. With this new project, visitors will be able to see this natural wonder through kayak rides.

Aside from cave viewing, adventurous couples can also engage in nature trekking, bird watching, swimming, boating and other outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways have posted advertisements and invitations to local contractors to bid for the 77 kilometer road work project involving the provinces of Northern and Eastern Samar which include the road leading to Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park. This is to make the said tourist destination more accessible.

Also included in the priority project is the development of Guiuan Airport.

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CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art (Vol. V – Philippine Dance) Balitaw Posted by University of the Philippines Alumni and Friends Rondalla (UPA&FR) Retrieved October 18, 2008
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Gabieta, Joey B. Leyte Samar Daily Express With Infra, EV is seen as new Tourist Destination Retrieved October 18, 2008
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Global Pinoy Travel. Western Samar. Retrieved October 18, 2008
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Meniano, Sarwell Q. Business World Weekender Community-based tourism initiatives set in Samar Retrieved October 15, 2008
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Philippine Information Agency (PIA 8) DOT turns over kayak, protective gears to Sohoton Services Association Retrieved October 18, 2008
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Rebamontan, Lucino Manila Bulletin Online Big road-concreting project in 2 Samar provinces okayed Retrieved October 15, 2008
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Puerto Princesa receives laurel for environment maintenance

Palawan has just given couples more reasons to consider Puerto Princesa as their honeymoon destination.

The city, in its goal in protecting its rich and vast ecological treasure earned the first Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Environmentally Sustainable Cities Award given last October 8, 2008 at Hanoi, Vietnam.

In a press release posted t the ASEAN website, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Surin Pitsuwan said that “each city that received the Award tells a compelling story of how it has placed environment and nature at the core of city planning, the challenges it faced, and its resolve to ensure the cities remain environmentally sustainable as it develops and modernizes.”

Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn expresses his gratitude to Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environment Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), who nominated the city, and the ASEAN for acknowledging their efforts to protect and conserve the natural beauty of the city amidst the high industrialization of other cities in the country. According to him, the cooperation of the Palaweños in all actions to safeguard its environment was the key to the implementation of his projects.

Dubbed as the Philippines’ Last Frontier, Palawan is home to vast hectares of rainforests, natural caves, high mountains, dive sites and breathtaking beaches.

Its line-up of tourist attractions consists of the El Nido Marine Reserve and Beach Resort; Tabon Cave, recognized as the “Cradle of Philippine Civilization”; Honda Bay filled with islets and dive sites; the Tubbataha Reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which were proclaimed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1993 and 1999, respectively. The latter has remained first, while the former, fifth in rank in the candidates for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Aside from natural wonders, couples can find the island a great venue for their honeymoon.Several resorts offer special honeymoon packages at very affordable prices. Its white sand beaches are also perfect for a sunset beach wedding.

To know more about Palawan, you may visit BiyahengPinas.com.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:

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Marinay, Manny B. Manila Bulletin Online. Hagedorn: Peoples’ participation key to protecting environment. Retrieved October 16, 2008
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Palawan.com. Puerto Princesa bags green award (original story posted at Business Mirror). Retrieved October 18, 2008
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Department of Tourism makes Cebu as Wedding Capital for Japanese

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano plans to place Cebu at the frontlines of top wedding destinations here in the country, especially for Japanese couples.

Known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is home to some of the best white sand beach resorts and hotels such as Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa, which has built its own wedding chapel called Ocean Pavilion and Plantation Bay Resort and Spa which offers a wedding package set underwater.

The province also has an array of historically draped churches like the Basilica Minor de Santo Niño which was built by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Fr. Andres Urdaneta, who took part in the Spanish expedition back in 1565. The San Jose Parish Church, known as the Chapel of the Last Supper, is the home of the only life-sized carving of the Last Supper scene of Jesus Christ and his 12 Apostles here in the Philippines.

Did You Know? Philippine Airlines flights for Osaka-Cebu are scheduled twice a week, every Thursday and Sunday departing from Kansai International Airport to arrive at Mactan International Airport. Return flights are also scheduled on the same day.Cebu Pacific meanwhile offers the trip thrice a week, every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

To make this more feasible, DOT has been working close hand with the Japanese Association of Travel Agents even meeting with Recruit Co. Ltd., publisher of Japanese bridal magazine called Zexy to promote Cebu along with other provinces as leisure and wedding destination.

Based on the department’s data, over 400,000 Japanese couples plan to hold their nuptial outside their country. The common wedding getaways are Hawaii and Guam. On the other hand, for the first quarter of 2008 alone, 216,000 Japanese tourists have visited the country. With such statistics plus the colorful ceremonies of Filipino weddings, Durano believes that the country can compete with these countries and offer the Philippines as another option to hold their wedding.

The secretary urges wedding coordinators, travel agencies all over the country and Visayan tour guides to come up with strategies and packages to further promote and offer the country as the new wedding haven for soon-to-be husband and wife.

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http://www.cebupacificair.com/aboutus/press/2008/09152008.html"

Dagooc, Ehda. Cebu pushed as “Wedding Destination” Retrieved October 4, 2008
http://philstar.com/archives.php?aid=20081003171&type=2

Dept. of Tourism. Visitor Arrivals to the Philippines by Country of Residence for the month of July 2008. Retrieved October 8, 2008
http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/dot/statistics.asp

Montecillo, Paolo Luis G. PAL to restore Cebu- Osaka flights Retrieved October 8, 2008
http://bworldonline.com/BW100808/content.php?id=300#

Mozo, Malou. Manila Bulletin. DOT promoting Cebu province as ‘wedding capital’ of Asia’. Visayas section, October 8, 2008 issue

Ortiz, Margaux. RP now being pitched as wedding venue to tourists Retrieved October 7, 2008
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20080914-160622/RP-now-being-pitched-as-wedding-venue-to-tourists

Reyes, Mary Ann Ll. DOT expects more Japanese tourists this year, Retrieved October 7, 2008
http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=200809246&type=2