Carrier Airconditioning is for healthy air indoors during the rainy season. The rainy season may seem like a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat. But the heavy downpours can adversely affect indoor temperatures and humidity levels—quickly turning rooms into favorable environments where bacteria can thrive.
Harold Pernikar, Consumer Solutions Group Director of Concepcion-Carrier Airconditioning Company (CCAC) said that “a person can carry around 37 million bacteria at any given time.”
“When you are sharing a room with two people, you are actually sharing it with more than a hundred million unwanted guests.”
Additionally, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claims that indoor air pollution could be two to five times higher than pollution levels outdoors, making it a leading health concern.
The problem is exponentially magnified during the rainy season, when doors and windows need to be closed to prevent heavy downpours from getting inside. Without safeguards and proper ventilation, rooms become the ideal dwelling place for bacteria.
“A home or even an office needs to have clean, healthy, and breathable air,” describes Pernikar.
“Polluted air is hazardous to health, particularly for children or those who suffer from asthma, allergies and other respiratory diseases.”
In line with this, investing in a top-quality air-conditioner will go a long way in ensuring optimum air-quality inside homes and offices, especially during this time of year.
“Most people are under the notion that air-conditioners are only for cooling, but this simply isn’t true.”
Air conditioning beyond just cooling
Carrier air-conditioners come with innovative features, engineered to clean and purify air circulation. The Carrier XPower Silver Inverter AC, one of the brand’s flagship models, has numerous components dedicated to improving air quality.
“This inverter circulates Silver Ion inside the room,” remarks Pernikar.
“This kills bacteria or prevents their activity by destroying their inner configuration and absorbing the elements in their cells.
As the rainy season brings excess humidity in the air, the Carrier XPower Silver Inverter AC works to dehumidify the room to prevent the growth of bacteria—resulting in cleaner air quality.
It is equipped with a Bio Filter, which catches small, airborne particles to neutralize bacteria, fungi, as well as microbes. It releases biological enzymes that dissolve bacteria invisible to the naked eye to prevent re-pollution.
An Anti-Mildew feature dries up condensed water inside the evaporator to prevent mildew build-ups which are notoriously known for carrying
various allergens and toxins.
World-class energy
savings
“With the ongoing
electricity shortage and electricity price hikes on the horizon,
energy efficiency becomes a primary consideration for consumers,”
advises Pernikar.
Based on rainy day lab
test results, the Carrier XPower Silver Inverter AC can operate for
as low as P292 a month. With advanced inverter technology, this unit
works to reach desired temperature levels then its compressors
operate at lower speeds to maintain optimal cooling conditions. This
leads to significant energy savings.
“The rainy season
brings the family together at home more frequently, that is why a
Carrier unit shall give you peace of mind by delivering cooling
comfort and ensuring a cleaner air for them,” concludes Harold
Pernikar.
Here's a solution to building a bacteria-free home for less than P300 a month.
Rico Blanco is one of the most talented musicians in the Philippines. As we all know, he is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, actor, and entrepreneur.
And now, the newest endorser of Valda Pastilles, Rico Blanco was presented to a media launch event held this Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Alphonse Bistro in Pasig.
Valda Pastilles, a green, conical-shaped, chewy pastilles, has been known for soothing and cooling throats for more than a century now.
Believe it or not, your throat is as hardworking as you are. It also gets stressed and experiences a lot of wear and tear, especially when your profession requires you to sing or speak every second of every day or night. So as much as you want time to relax your mind and body, your throat should also be given time for some R and R.
Rico is every inch a rock star, oozing with a cool persona. His voice alone holds a refreshing power that can captivate the hearts of every Filipino with just the first note, much like how Valda Pastilles gives instant cooling sensation in every chew. No wonder Rico is the perfect face for the brand.
During the launch event, the new Valda Pastilles TV commercial was revealed, which showcased no less than Rico and the brand’s single that he wrote and composed entitled, “Time For You”.
With the brand and Rico’s collaboration, they have created a fresh song that leaves nothing but cool vibes.
Aileen Domingo Puzon, Aspen Marketing Manager and Rico Blanco
In addition, the feel good song’s full-length music video was also unveiled, which was as soothing as the song alone.
So, now that Valda Pastilles has teamed up with Rico Blanco, there will always be time for you to soothe and cool your throat wherever you are and whenever you feel like it.
For more highlights of the event, visit facebook.com/VALDAPILIPINAS.
For product inquiries and concerns, email pv.phils@ph.aspenap.com or call 792-8000.
· Philippines
investors favor developed economies over emerging Asia and show least
home-market bias of any investors in Asia
· Personal
networks, bricks and mortar dominate approach to investing
· Philippines
investors remain most optimistic in Asia
Investors in the Philippines are
among Asia's most optimistic and most outward-looking, given their willingness
to invest outside the Philippines to gain returns, according to the latest
Manulife Investor Sentiment Index* covering the second quarter of 2014.
Philippines investors reach
across emerging Asia to mature markets
When asked which region they think
is best to invest in, Philippines investors point to developed Asia,
Australasia and North America over emerging markets, including emerging Asia
and the Middle East and North Africa.
Fig. 1 – Philippines investors favour developed and distant
markets over China and emerging Asia
Philippines investors seem less affected by home-market bias
than any other investors in the survey. Given a selection of single markets,
they show most enthusiasm for Canada (76 points) and Japan (73) above the
Philippines itself (51), and show least for China (44), which most other Asia
investors rank relatively higher.
When it comes to growth, Philippines
investors are also most optimistic about Japan and Canada, with 19 percent
believing that Japan’s economy will be the fastest growing in the next two
years, followed by Canada, China and Australia. This contrasts markedly with
the average Asia investor, 27 percent of whom expect China’s economy to grow
fastest, followed by much lower expectations for Japan Australia and Canada.
Fig. 2 – Philippines investors’
views of which markets will grow fastest
contrasted markedly with
investors elsewhere in Asia
"Our research suggests that
Philippines investors’ preference for Japan is likely related to Japan’s first
quarter GDP growth which came in at 6.7 percent on strong consumer demand ahead
of the implementation of a new goods and services tax," said Aira Gaspar,
CFA, Chief Investment Officer of Manulife Philippines.
“It's also interesting that
Philippines investors seem so keen on Canada. We think there is a sound basis
for this given that Canadian equities outperformed their developed market peers
in the first quarter."
Philippines investors rely on friendly advice, ‘bricks
and mortar’ approach to portfolios
Despite their international outlook,
Philippines investors place their faith closer to home when it comes to making
investment decisions, with 88 percent relying on or referring to family,
friends or colleagues as a source of advice – the highest level in the region
and well above the regional average of 58 percent. They are less dependent on
industry staff, mass media or online sources of investment advice.
Philippines investors also have a
very ‘bricks and mortar’ approach to portfolio composition, with 61 percent
saying they own investment property (against the Asian average of 19 percent)
and 75 percent owning their own home (against an Asian average of 50 percent).
Cash and property together make up the bulk of their portfolios. Conversely,
they have much lower ownership of stocks (15 percent versus the Asian average
of 48 percent) and mutual funds (6 percent versus 23 percent) – even though
their sentiment towards equities is the highest in Asia.
“Philippines investors rely largely
on their own networks for their investment decisions" said Ryan Charland,
CEO of Manulife Philippines. "While it is comforting to speak with family
and friends for investment advice, investors would benefit from consulting
investment professionals, who could help them build a sound and diversified
portfolio that meets their medium to long-term financial goals.”
Philippines investors are Asia's most optimistic
In addition to their positive views
about investing overseas, Philippines investors remain optimistic about
investing at home with the sentiment index for domestic investment at 59, the
highest in Asia. This optimism was spread across all asset classes in the
survey, which all saw increases except cash. Fixed income saw the biggest
increase, up 5 points to 50; followed by stocks, up 4 to 45. Mutual funds rose
1 point to 36. Property has taken the lead as the most favored asset class,
with home property highest at 75, up 1 in the quarter, while investment
property rose by 4 points to 74. Cash was the only asset class to see a
decline, down 9 to 73, but still remains high.
”Filipino respondents were generally
upbeat, despite weaker-than-expected first quarter 2014 GDP growth and
uninspiring corporate earnings for the same period,” confirmed Ms. Gaspar. “We
believe sentiment was boosted by a credit rating upgrade from Standard &
Poor’s and an increase in government spending on much-needed infrastructure
projects. The country’s resilient private consumption, rising investment cycle,
recovering manufacturing industry and favorable consumer and business
confidence bode well for economic activity and a positive earnings growth
story. However, investors’ sentiment could turn sour if policy reforms aimed at
addressing infrastructure deficiencies and fostering inclusive economic growth
stall.”
For more findings and related
information from the Manulife Investor Sentiment Index in Asia, please visit www.manulife-asia.com.
Revolutionizes in-store shopping experience using mobile devices
Globe Telecom, the leading telecommunications network, joins forces with Mobext, the country's first pure-play mobile marketing agency, and In-Store Digital Display International (IDDI), a technology-based information marketing company, to bring Beacon technology in the country, which will provide a more unique in-store shopping experience using mobile devices.
"Studies show that more than 95 percent of transactions worldwide are still made in physical venues. In addition, more than half of consumers visiting stores have smartphones, and that number is growing rapidly in the Philippines," shares Bela Gupta D'Souza, Globe's Mobile Advertising Head.
"We have listened closely to the requirements of our clients and by introducing Beacons in the market, we are confident we can help brands reach target customers in their "last mile" of purchase. By delivering in-store notifications to smartphones all the way down to an aisle level, Beacons will enable retailers to establish one-to-one connections with shoppers, be it as rewards, coupons or product information. We couldn't be more thrilled to partner with Mobext and IDDI to bring this technology to the Philippines and we are already seeing a very positive response from top retailers in the country, including Globe stores nationwide," she added.
Beacons are a low-cost, battery-friendly hardware device that attach onto a wall or shelf in an aisle. Through the use of a low-energy Bluetooth wireless connection, Beacons can send messages or prompts to smartphone users who are within a 5-inch to 200 feet radius of the device. Beacons are already being used in the retail industry to push loyalty points, display ads, coupons and product information in-store, but they are also poised to transform how event organizers, enterprises, and institutions communicate with people indoors.
"This partnership will build the largest location-based marketing or "point-of-sales" mobile marketing network in the country. IDDI, with close to 1,000 screens across the country, will give Beacons extensive footprint when it comes to penetrating major retail locations", says Arthur Policarpio, CEO of Mobext Philippines.
"Globe, as the smartphone leader in the market, will give us enviable scale when it comes to acquiring our user base and we are also tapping Globe's strong retail partnerships to widen the Beacon network in the Philippines. Mobext, with its expertise in mobile technology and strategy, will provide long-term solutions for retailers and brands who want to incorporate Beacons in their marketing", he added.
"IDDI is pleased to partner with industry leaders Globe and Mobext in this pioneering beacon rollout as the our first digital-out-of-home advertising platform offering of the group. This complements the existing in-store digital display network of IDDI in over 300 stores and will definitely provide added value to our partner retail chains. This will also enable advertisers to engage with consumers thru contextually relevant content on a one-on-one basis at point-of-purchase. And of course, ultimately, consumers win not only because they receive brand content that is relevant to them but also because they have the opportunity to participate in the universal rewards program that is built-in to our beacon system" says Bingo Soriano, CEO of IDDI, Inc.
Globe Digital Advertising is exploring to offer the Beacon technology to some of the partners of IDDI. For more information on Beacon technology, please contact any of the partner representatives: Aaron Carreon of Globe at zabcarreon@globe.com.ph, Raymon Cayabyab of Mobext at mon.cayabyab@mobext.com, or Bingo Soriano of IDDI atbsoriano@iddi-group.com
For over two decades, Epson has maintained its position as the world's No. 1 supplier of HTPS panels, the core devices at the heart of 3LCD projectors. It has led the industry by developing and providing technologies that boost power and performance.
Epson now encourages projector customers to give feedback. Owners of Epson’s 3LCD projectors have a chance to win an Epson LW-900 label printer just by giving feedback to the digital imaging leader.
Donna V. Ferro, Head of Marcom & PR of Epson Philippines explained that “for 13 consecutive years, Epson has been the No.1 projector brand in the whole world. This remarkable achievement was made possible because we listen to our customers, understand their requirements, and then create a product that exceeds their expectations.”
“It is a source of great pride for us that even here in the Philippines, Epson is now the No.1 projector brand. As a technology company that believes in continuous improvement and innovation, we are taking this opportunity to invite all Epson projector owners to give us their feedback. All our customers need to do is go to our website (www.epson.com.ph/reviewprojector), tell us what they think about their Epson projector, and provide their details for a chance to win an Epson label printer,” added Ferro.
Users of Epson projectors can go to the company’s website, give a rating for the projector they use, and share their experience with the product. Five participants will be chosen at random (“Sweepstakes”) as winners, and each winner will receive an Epson LW-900 Labelworks printer.
The Sweepstakes is open to any person who owns or uses an Epson 3LCD projector, whether at home or at work, within the Philippines. Ownership and usage of the projector shall be verified via the participant’s submission of the product serial number. Each product serial number can only be submitted once.
Epson’s 3LCD projectors boast of superior color brightness over 1-chip DLP projectors of similar range. A projector’s color brightness is usually measured in ‘lumens’. Color Light Output (or color brightness) is the measurement for Color Brightness while White Light Output is for White Brightness. Many projector manufacturers provide only one brightness number -- the white brightness measurement.
“Customers should note that a projector that has high white brightness may have low color brightness. In some cases, the color brightness of that projector could be only 1/3 of the rated specification (lumens) provided. When Color Brightness is low, colors can look dull and dark, skin tones can be reproduced poorly, and important details can be lost,” clarified Ferro.
As color is a critical component every time a projector is used – for presentations, watching movies, and gaming – it is important for customers to ask for the color light output or color lumens of the projector that they are eyeing before making the purchase.
“Epson projectors provide equal color light output and white light output. This is one of the reasons why Epson has been the projector of choice all over the world for 13 straight years,” added Ferro.
Singer, actress, TV host Ana Karylle Tatlonghari -Yuzon is the first celebrity endorser of STATUS Hair Salon Manila.
Busy as she can be, Karylle dabbles into almost everything – singing, hosting, acting, writing, musical theater, songwriting, even blogging and she is also an entrepreneur.
Karylle is enjoying her daily stint on ABS-CBN’s noontime show "It’s Showtime." She is also busy promoting her latest "K" album under PolyEast Records. She recently headlined Bench’s campaign for their Shapewear line, and Belo Medical Group’s Bride marketing effort.
She also started working on her online show with Yahoo and also preparing for a string of projects including an upcoming concert within the year.
Karylle was one of the performers of the 45th anniversary show of the Cultural Center of the Phillippines “Musikal,” a historic coming together of more than 200 local theater performers in the country just last weekend. She reprised her Sita role from last year’s “Rama Hari” revival.
With everything that keeps Karylle busy, the singer-actress-TV host is thankful that STATUS Salon has chosen her to be their first celebrity endorser.
“I really am grateful to STATUS that they gave me their full trust and confidence to be their first celebrity endorser,” says Karylle during the media conference held this Wednesday, September 10 at the Dulcinea.
“It feels great that I was warmly welcomed by everyone, and I now have STATUS to take care of my hair.”
“With all my engagements, na siyempre kailangan ayusin yung buhok ko, sometimes it takes a toll on my hair, so ngayon I’m happy na kasi STATUS is there na,” she adds.
Karylle, who frequents Quezon City, San Juan, Eastwood and Ortigas areas, also notes that it is good that there is always a STATUS Salon near her always.
STATUS HAIR SALON owners Robina and Roseann Ko with Karylle
STATUS HAIR SALON started year 2011 by siblings Robina and Roseann Ko, with their unique brand, build the salon with a vision of providing services in line with the highest international standards. The salon uses Schwarzkopf products and from basic cuts to modern trends styles done by well-educated, internationally-trained staff and stylists.
“We really are happy that Karylle is already part of the STATUS Salon family,” says Robina Ko. “Karylle is so beautiful inside and out, and people look up to her because of her intelligence, good heart, and beauty kaya perfect talaga siya for STATUS,” she adds.
Roseann Ko, the other owner of STATUS, also said that, “the launch of Karylle as our endorser also signals our foray into franchising, so it’s really a big step for all of us, and we are thankful that we have Karylle.”
Visit STATUS Hair Salon branch near you - Tomas Morato, Katipunan, Eastwood San Juan, Robinson’s Galleria plus STATUS Premiere Salon in Acropolis, Makati, and Banawe.
Physiogel®, the number-one most prescribed moisturizer by dermatologists, empowers every Filipina to fully participate in life with the launch of the Free In My Skin Movement.
The Free In My Skin Movement empowers every Filipina to be free from dry, sensitive skin and to confidently embrace life and achieve their dreams and aspirations.
Yesterday, September 9, held at the Makati Shangrila Hotel, GlaxoSmithKline, makers of Physiogel®, launches the Free In My Skin Movement with TV host and entrepreneur Patti Grandidge as she leads the movement.
To be free
is the right of every modern woman. The freedom to make her own
decisions and pursue her dreams and passion.
But
that freedom should begin from within, from loving oneself and
liberating it from insecurities. Being free is being comfortable in
one’s own skin. Unfortunately dry, sensitive skin may cause
emotional struggles and self-doubt, making them miss out on life’s
many opportunities each day.
Empowering
Women
The
Free In My Skin Movement embodied by model, TV host and entrepreneur
Patti Grandidge, seeks to bring together and honor women who overcame
their insecurities and became the best version of themselves.
Patti,
one of the country’s freshest and most beautiful faces, admitted
that she used to be like one of every two Filipinas who suffered from
dry and sensitive skin.
“We used to
travel a lot when I was younger and getting exposed to different
climates took a toll on my skin, making it sensitive, itchy, red and
dry. This made me quite insecure, and in the business I am in, it is
always about first impressions,” she said.
Patti
knew that if she wanted to be in control of her life and achieve her
goals, she had to overcome her insecurities, starting with her skin.
“Unlike
ordinary moisturizers I used before, Physiogel®
made my skin less sensitive and dry. My skin became so much softer,
smoother and definitely healthier.”
Patti
said she understands how insecurities can be restraining and wants
every Filipina to be free from dry, sensitive skin and to confidently
reveal their true selves. Just like she did.
“It’s
amazing how one simple change in my skincare has renewed my
confidence,” she enthused. “One of the best feelings is when you
feel confident, and have control of your life, like I can do
anything! And with Physiogel®,
I am Free In My skin to do just about anything.”
With
Physiogel®,
Patti was able to free herself from skin worries such as dryness and
irritation, so she can fulfill the demands of her multi-hyphenated
career of being a TV host, model, entrepreneur and loving wife all
with equal zest and success.
“With
Physiogel, I became free from dry and sensitive skin – to get
going, to get out there and just be who I really am. So, now I truly
believe in the power of having good skin. It gave me the power to
feel empowered, to feel free. I became free in my skin. And this is
why I have been rallying for this movement to reach out to so many
women out there,” declares the Free in My Skin embodiment.
Free
in My Skin Movement
The
Free in My Skin Movement aims to empower women to fully embrace and
participate in life by freeing them from dry and sensitive skin,
because having dry and sensitive skin can serve as a hindrance for
women to fully function to their best abilities. This movement also
aims to honor smart, strong, sensitive women who have faced their
insecurities (physically and emotionally) and are now embracing and
living life to the fullest.
General Manager of GSK Consumer Healthcare, Mr. Jeoffrey Yulo
“The
Free in My Skin movement is not just about creating a nurturing
community of smart, strong and sensitive women, but is also as a way
of honoring these women who didn’t let their dry-skin insecurities
prevent them from being the best versions of themselves,” says
General Manager of GSK Consumer Healthcare, Mr. Jeoffrey Yulo.
As
Patti Grandidge says, “As the embodiment of this movement, I am
encouraging women to join me in honoring the smart, strong and
sensitive women our lives who have all been a source of inspiration.
Think of three smart, strong & sensitive women you know and you
are proud of and tag them on your Facebook post as how you can see
mine on screen:
I
honor these women who have inspired me to be #FreeInMySkin: @kpams808
@macheremachere @bebettes. Cheers to these three smart, strong &
sensitive women in my life! Who are yours? #NowPayItForward
#PhysiogelPH
Now
all my three honorees have to do is to pay it forward by honoring
three women in their lives and so forth. We want every woman in our
lives to be part of this movement. And I really think this is one of
the many things we can do to reach out to more women who already are
and who want to be free in their skin.”
Physiogel®
is the only skincare product that has the patented advanced Physiogel
BioMimic Technology®that works naturally with your skin to make it less sensitive and
dry. Like a jigsaw puzzle, your skin's natural lipid layers form a
matrix, helping to lock the moisture within. This allows Physiogel®
to repair dehydrated skin, rehydrate the essential barriers and also
revitalize the skin―keeping it healthy from within. Physiogel®
is free from perfumes, preservatives or colorants.
For
skin that is less sensitive and dry, experience the difference with
Physiogel®,
the most recommended moisturizer brand by dermatologists in the
Philippines.
Physiogel
is the No.1 prescribed moisturizer by dermatologists.* Physiogel is a
skin moisturizing brand that falls under the Dermo-Cosmetic Category
of the Skin Care Market. It comes in cleanser, cream & lotion
formats for dry, sensitive skin. Its cleanser is a mild, soap-free
and hypo-allergenic cleanser.
About
GSK
GlaxoSmithKline
(GSK), one of the world’s leading research-based pharmaceutical and
healthcare companies – is committed to improving the quality of
human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live
longer. For further information please visit www.gsk.com.
*According
to the Philippine Medical Data Index (PMDI MAT 2013)
Pinoy Big Brother All-In, Daniel Matsunaga was voted as this season’s Big Winner.
Last August 24, the most talked about reality show has come to its end, as the last set of housemates known as the Big 4, faced the public for one last time. Pinoy Big Brother All-In’s loyal audience and avid fans showed their support through text polls, saving the most deserving housemate.
Daniel Matsunaga with Anna Garcia Ramos
After more than a 100 days of staying inside the Big Brother House, the Big 4 stood the best among the original 19 housemates comprised of celebrity, teenagers, and regular individuals, a first in the Big Brother franchise history; the Big 4 are: Vickie Rushton (4th Big Placer), Jane Oineza (3rd Big Placer), Maris Racal (2nd Big Placer), and Daniel Matsunaga (PBB All-In Big Winner).
A Brazilian-Japanese model, Daniel Matsunaga has successfully achieved every task inside the Pinoy Big Brother House, winning not just his fellow housemates’ trust but the hearts of many Filipinos.
Matsunaga was awarded 1 million pesos, business franchises, and a brand new condominium unit at Amaia Steps Novaliches, a modern and contemporary-inspired mid-rise project by Amaia, Ayala Land’s economic housing arm. With convenience and accessibility as its major advantages, and taking pride of its quality features and amenities such as a swimming pool, basketball court, clubhouse, playground, landscaped gardens, and support retail, perfectly tailored for a Big Winner like Daniel Matsunaga.
Backed by Makati Development Corporation BuildPlus (MDC) and maintained by Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC), Amaia Land is every hardworking Filipino’s dependable partner in building a bright and strong future.
Just like Daniel, who believed in his dreams and determined to make it all come true, AMAIA upholds its commitment in providing affordable homes to every Filipino and makes dreaming of a brand new home a reality; because with AMAIA, every Filipino can claim, “Kaya Ko Na!”
For inquiries, visit www.amaialand.com or like www.facebook/AmaiaLand
The Department of Tourism has launched a campaign dubbbed as "Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015" an invitation for all to experience the enduring promise of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.”
The Philippines is all set to become the ultimate destination next year. Encouraging nationwide participation, DOT hopes to inspire 10 million foreign tourists to discover, explore and fall in love with the Philippines.
Visitors to the country will not run out of reasons to visit the Philippines as 2015 proves to be an exciting year for the country.
Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III
During the event, Domingo Ramon C. Enero III, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer announced the VPY 2015 features on an exciting mix of events and activities, as well as the unveiling of more historic treasures, natural wonders, and unforgettable adventures; from the Papal Visit in January to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit.
And of course, its people’s hospitality and optimism make the Philippines the best place to be on the planet next year.
Arts and Culture
The Sinulog, Dinagyang and Ati-atihan are just some of the many colorful and festive events that celebrate and showcase the beautiful people and culture of the Philippines. These world-famous festivals open the door for visitors to discover its rich heritage of centuries-old baroque churches, historical museums and local arts and Filipino craftsmanship.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
The Philippines has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle and entertainment. Shopping destinations and nightlife are the selling points for Manila. Some international performers will also hold concerts in the country next year, including the pop sensation One Direction.
There are also unique international events held in the country like the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition. Never amiss in what’s in, the country comes on top in providing recreation and entertainment hard to match.
Travel and Adventure
The Philippines is rich in natural wonders and biodiversity that tourists wanting to commune with nature will love. It is famous for its hiking, diving and adventure hubs like Siargao Island, a favorite surfing site, Boracay, known for its white beach sand, Bohol for cruise tourism, and Cebu for its breathtaking diving sites.
World Heritage Sites—the Banaue Rice Terraces, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife and Sanctuary, the Palawan Underground River which is also one of the world’s New7Wonders of Nature, continue to inspire awe even among jaded travelers.
Year-round Sporting Events
The country, known for its people’s competitive spirit, plays host to international sporting events, some of which have made the Philippines a part of their circuit are Iron Man and Xterra Triathlons, and CWC International Wakeboarding Competition. Local sporting events like the International Dragon Boat Race in Boracay and the myriad of marathons and triathlons, including fun races like color blasts and zombie runs have attracted international attention and participation.
Business
The Philippines also boasts of modern facilities for conventions and business conferences. Next year, the country will host the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit. Guests will include 21 heads of state and 46 ministers, with about 10,000 economic leaders, support staff and international journalists.
VPY 2015 also comes at the time DOT makes progress on measures to realize the planned regional economic integration of Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes the readiness of the Bureau of Immigration to honor the common visas extended by all member countries to those traveling to the Philippines. Doing business in the country is reinforced by its back-to-back investment upgrades and high economic growth performance.
It’s More Fun in the Philippines website
To drum up more interest for VPY 2015, the DOT has given its website a makeover, redirecting its home page to the revitalized “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website (www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com) with more features to assist potential tourists, travel agencies andAA event organizers.
The website aims to be the one-stop portal for all queries about traveling to the Philippines, its must-visit destinations and events in 2015.
In support, the DOT has developed a microsite inside the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website to serve as directory to everything the Philippines has to offer.
All stakeholders, from event organizers to tour agencies, are encouraged to go to www.phl2015.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com and register and promote their activities to an international audience.
“What will truly sustain Visit the Philippines Year 2015 campaign are the people themselves. I enjoin the businesses, communities and locals, to play an active part in spreading and amplifying our messages, enticing would-be visitors to come visit our shores,” said Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr.
(From L-R) Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr., Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. and Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III during the "Visit the Philippines 2015" launch in the same ocassion of the 13th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX2014), held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City last Thursday, September 5, 2014.
Thanks to the unprecedented support from the national government, local governments and the private sector, tourism remains as one of the pillars of growth and inclusiveness. With VPY 2015, DOT aims to have every quarter one major occasion that would attract not only domestic but also international tourists to visit the country.
Indeed, Visit the Philippines Year 2015 is a great opportunity to finally share with the world the unique experiences and adventures this country can offer.
Here are some photos during the "Visit the Philippines Year 2015" campaign launch.
The 13th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), organized by the Department of Tourism and Promotions Board was formally launched at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City last Thursday, September 5, 2014 attended by tourism attachés, VIP’s, 198 foreign buyers and 200 local sellers.
“PHITEX strengthens our tourism industry by nurturing relationships between our very own players and the range of businesses found throughout the world,” TPB Chief Operating Officer Domingo Ramon Enerio said.
The Tourism Promotion Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism, plans to push the 'It's More Fun in the Philippines' campaign even further as part of its five-point communication strategy for the coming year. Enerio described 'It's More Fun' as "a very strategic part" of their campaign to boost tourism in the country.
The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) provides a venue for sellers of Philippine tourism products to engage top international buyers in business negotiations.
It also continues to be the Department of Tourism’s and the Tourism Promotions Board’s aggressive effort to boost the country’s position in the global market as a top tourist destination.
In support of these objectives this year, PHITEX buyers will not only have pre and post event tours to key Philippine Destinations but even more so, implement tour programs with socio-ecological thrusts.
Enerio encouraged the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to build lasting relationships among each other for the continued attainment of Philippine travel and tourism. The Philippine tourism sector is poised to ride even bigger waves next year as the Asean integration is set to roll out.
This year’s theme, “Innovate and Integrate, Empower and Engage” highlights not only the distinctively fun nature of the archipelago and the Filipino people, but also leverages on sustainable travel through the incorporation of responsible social tourism activities in post-confab tours.
(L-R) From First Distric of Bohol Cong. Rene Lopez Relampagos, Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr. and Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operationg Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III
As it emphasizes "travel with a purpose" PHITEX 2014 reinforces DOT’s targeted 6.8 million foreign visitors in 2014 by expanding their existing transactions in the country, enticing foreign buyers during one-on-one scheduled appointments in the Philippine Travel Exchange.
“Unlike in the past where the post-event tours were primarily for leisure, the 2014 tours are designed with activities that promote sustainability and preservation of environment,” said Tess H. Mauricio, TPB OIC for Marketing and Promotions and PHITEX project director.
Local tour groups with a purpose
There will be nine tour groups, which include trips to – Manila, Makati and BGC, GK Enchanted Farm (Bulacan), Laoag and Vigan, Tagaytay and Puerta Galera, Puerta Princesa, El Nido, Legazpi and Sorsogon, Boracay, and Cebu and Bohol.
First Distric of Bohol Cong. Rene Lopez Relampagos and Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr.
The Manila, Makati and BGC tour explores the modern global city and the Makati Central Business District. Guests will also be taken back in time by visiting Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, San Agustin Church and museum in the Walled City of Intramuros.
GK Enchanted Farm in Bulacan is the highlight of the second tour group. This is Gawad Kalinga’s platform in promoting social entrepreneurs, helping local farmers and creating alternative employment in the countryside. Guests will survey the various facilities of the farm’s campus, while supporting the different income-generating activities of the area.
Northern Luzon will take on the spotlight with a cultural and historical tour of Laoag and Vigan. Guests will explore Ilocos Norte and stay at Sitio Remedios, a heritage village resort situated in an 18,000 square meter of land re-creating an Ilocano neighborhood typical of the mid-fifties. The group will also visit Ilocos Sur and will be accommodated in Hotel Luna, located at the heart of the Heritage Village in Vigan City, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Aside from the walking and calesa tour of Vigan, participants will also be treated to a gastronomic culinary journey, after which a tree-planting activity awaits participants at Paoay Lake. For the adventure-seekers, the La Paz Sand Dunes is an added delight.
The Tagaytay and Puerto Galera tour group will relax in the oasis of Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas, then experience the cold breeze of Tagaytay with a breathtaking aerial view of Taal Volcano. Tai-chi, yoga and the traditional “hilot” massage will also pamper guests at the Nurture Spa Village. One of the highlights of the tour is visiting the Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Eco-tourism Park where guests can explore and understand the vital role of mangrove forests in our country. A visit of the Tamaraw Falls and the Municipal Hall of Puerto Galera follows.
The clean and green city of Puerto Princesa in Palawan is the destination of the fifth group where they will be welcomed at Hotel Centro, with firefly watching in the evening. Guests will also be amazed with the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012. Mangrove paddling is another experience for the group as part of the community-based social tourism effort.
The El Nido tour presents another priceless gem from Palawan. Nestled between a lush four-hectare forest and a calm, shallow lagoon, Lagen Island in El Nido is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday in a private and tranquil island. The surrounding forest and the breathtaking limestone cliffs are natural attractions that serve as sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and mammals. Here, guests can observe and delight in wildlife flourishing in their natural habitat. Participants will also be treated to a sunset cruise, kayaking and island hopping.
The seventh group exhibits the unique offerings of Legazpi and Sorsogon. Accommodation for the delegates is Misibis Bay Resort where they get to choose to ride ATV’s, mountain bikes, dune buggies, segways or a heart-pounding zipline. In Legazpi, the incredible Mayon Skyline and Daraga Church will welcome guests while in Pilar, Sorsogon, they can snorkel at Bantigui Pt. Marine Sanctuary, or engage in harvesting sea grapes and gathering sea urchins in Panalatuan Cove. Swimming at the Panumbagan Sand Bar is also an option.
The white powdery sand and clear blue waters of Asia’s 24/7 island of Boracay mark the eight tour group as delegates will be welcomed at the luxurious Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa. Island hopping and other water sports activities will make it a busy morning for them but the Boracay Foundation coral transplantation efforts, which continuously give shelter and protection to a diverse range of underwater species is a more purposeful activity.
Delegates will appreciate Cebu and Bohol all the more in the ninth leg of tour groups as they explore the historic and natural beauty of Bohol’s countryside. Guests will have an exciting and diverse experience touring the Blood Compact Shrine, Baclayon Church, Chocolate Hills, Loboc River cruise and the Tarsier Sanctuary. Afterwards, Habitat for Humanity will host a social tourism activity geared towards providing shelter to the needy. A short ferry ride brings delegates to Cebu, the Queen City of the South where they will enjoy staying at the Shangri-La Mactan and a heritage tour of the celebrated city follows.
“We are ecstatic to introduce these new itineraries that uplift Philippine tourism efforts with the incorporation of a holistic outlook. The suitable balance between our environment, the economy and our people’s culture are encouraged in PHITEX pre and post-tours to guarantee long-term sustainability of our industry and ultimately, the nation’s growth,” adds Mauricio.
PHITEX 2014 is supported by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Philippine Travel Agencies (PTAA), Hotels Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) and Board of Airlines Representative (BAR) with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Resorts World Manila.
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