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Scarlet Snow Belo photo via Facebook The S.A.F.E.T.R.I.P. campaign video features Scarlet Snow Belo asking the help of the Powerpuff Girls to find a safe way to explore the Philippines now that leisure travel is allowed. The trio of Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup emphasized the need to follow S.A.F.E.T.R.I.P., which stands for Sanitize, Avoid mass gatherings, wear Face masks, use Electronic payments, always have your Temperature checked, follow Rules and regulations, stay updated on latest Information, and observe Physical distancing.  “As more destinations reopen for local travelers, it is our duty to remind everyone to travel with their health and safety as topmost priority,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat. “As quarantine restrictions have eased, point-to-point travel from NCR Plus to other MGCQ areas for leisure is now allowed with no age restrictions, subject to a negative RT-PCR test result. This campaign of the DOT with Cartoon Network, featuring Scarlet Belo, aims to inform our travelers on what they should do in order to keep themselves and other travelers safe while embarking on new and more fun adventures,” she added. In a recent trip to the Province of Bohol, Puyat took Scarlet, together with her parents, Dr. Vicki Belo and Dr. Hayden Kho, around the different destinations in the province that are not only beautiful, but also safe and child-friendly, such as the Chocolate Hills and the Philippine Tarsier Foundation’s sanctuary. These are places that help instill pride of place and environmental awareness on both children and adults. They also visited the Dalareich Chocolate House, an award-winning bean-to-bar chocolatier, and took the Loboc River cruise and were serenaded by the world-renowned Loboc Children’s Choir at the Loboc River Resort. “Our recent trip to Bohol is our way of showing that we can all travel again safely. I’m so glad that Scarlet had a lot of fun experiencing our wonderful tourist spots. I hope more get to travel to our safely reopened destinations this year. But let me emphasize the need to follow minimum health and safety protocol and the travel requirements of the destinations that you will visit,” said Puyat. The DOT encourages travelers to check the official websites of the destinations they are planning to visit, as well as www.philippines.travel/safetrip for the latest updates on open destinations, travel restrictions, and entry requirements and protocol. |
July 3, 2021
DOT Teams Up with Scarlet Belo and Cartoon Network to Take Safe Trips
May 15, 2021
Huawei partners with DOT to showcase the beauty of Philippines worldwide
"Our strategy for the safe and gradual reopening of tourism in the Philippines will be greatly supported by this digital content partnership as it will offer Huawei users anywhere in the world with glimpses of our country's beautiful destinations and allow them to customize their mobile devices with images of our tourism offerings," Romulo-Puyat said.
February 24, 2021
DOT lauds Bohol's celebration of the annual Ubi Festival
The Department of Tourism (DOT) lauds the Provincial Government of Bohol's efforts in setting up this year's annual Ubi Festival under the new normal.
Running until February 24, the festival, which has been celebrated since year 2000, is proof of the Boholanos’ love for Ubi or purple yam. The root crop was revered as a “savior crop” as its discovery led to the alleviation of hunger in the province during pre-Hispanic times. Now, it has become a staple food for Boholanos because of its taste, long shelf-life, and the many food varieties that can be made from it.
As the largest producer of ubi in the country, Bohol is home to many ubi farmers who turn to the root crop for their livelihood. With this year's theme, “Pagpananum ug Ubi Napuslan, Kagutom Na Dala Sa Covid19 Nabatukan,” the festival aims to celebrate the root crop that has become an agro-historical-geographical-religious symbol for the province and highlight the impact and contributions of ubi farmers.
Photo from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist - Bohol
As part of the festival, a showcase of a variety of Ubi products like ube jams and ube-based bibingka, ice cream, and bread can be found at the Old City Airport in Tagbilaran City. The venue strictly implements health and safety protocols to assure festival-goers of an easy and memorable experience. Other cultural activities, exhibits, and seminars are also held to honor the root crop this month.
From festivals, gorgeous sights, and fun-filled activities, there’s definitely a Bohol destination for everyone. While it is famous for the Chocolate Hills, Bohol also offers other attractions that families, groups, and even solo travelers can enjoy.
Scenic views and
ecotourism sites
Photo courtesy of Paul
Gotiong
Action-packed
activities
Bohol also has something for
adrenaline junkies. If you prefer seeing the Chocolate Hills up close, ATV
rentals are available in the Carmen area. Those who want more action-packed
activities can head to the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park for zipline and
cable car rides. If you prefer water activities, you can also opt for stand-up
paddle boarding tours or experience a water bike adventure.
White-sand beaches
Bohol is also known for its
white-sand beaches and clear waters. The Alona beach is a stunning 1.5km
stretch of white-sand beach famous for being a must-visit spot for those who
love snorkeling, scuba diving, or even those who just like to relax and watch
the sunset. Travelers can also island-hop to Balicasag and Virgin islands to
explore Bohol’s marine life. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of
dolphins in the area.
Variety of accommodations
Tourism comprises 70% of the livelihood in Bohol, so there is no wonder that several hotels and resorts are available in the area. Whether you choose accommodations in the municipality of Panglao or Dauis, these hotels are committed to providing top-notch service and hospitality, especially during these times. Temperature checks, QR code scanning, plated meals, and rearranged eating areas are just some of the adjustments made by accommodations to ensure that travelers are assured of a safe environment during their stay.
Hassle-free travel
Do-it-yourself travels are currently not allowed in Bohol. This means that everything you plan to do while on the island should be pre-booked--from accommodations and transportation to tour arrangements. This makes sightseeing around the island hassle-free. This also makes it easier for the provincial government to implement systems to curb the virus’s spread while ensuring that tourists get to fully enjoy the island’s beauty.
Before planning a visit to Bohol, travelers must have a negative RT-PCR test taken 72 hours before their arrival, pre-booked accommodations at a DOT/LGU-accredited establishment, travel itinerary, and registration in the Province of Bohol website at tourism.bohol.gov.ph for the issuance of personal QR codes that will serve as electronic IDs.
Tourists coming from Metro Manila are encouraged to apply for the subsidized RT-PCR test at the UP-Philippine General or Philippine Children's Medical Center for as low as PHP900 and PHP750, respectively. To avail of the 50% discount from either of the two medical institutions, visit the Tourism Promotions Board website at www.tpb.gov.ph/rtpcrphtravel.
As of February 2, 2021, Bohol allows the use of saliva RT-PCR tests in place of nasal and throat swabs.
For up-to-date information on open destinations and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.
For more information on traveling
to Bohol, contact the Department of Tourism or visit philippines.travel/safetrip/bohol.
February 21, 2021
DOT backs “Balik sa Bohol” for tourism industry revival
The Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale aims to further promote domestic tourism among the public and encourage them to see Bohol’s natural and cultural wonders. To avail of Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale deals, visit traveloco.ph/balikbohol.
“With the upcoming Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale, we look forward to more people travelling to Bohol to see and experience the beauty and wonders of the province,” DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.
She added, “We, at the DOT, along with provincial and local leaders in Bohol, are committed to protecting the health and safety of locals and tourists alike. Regaining the trust and confidence of Filipinos to travel again is essential to the revival of the tourism industry.”
SAFETY PROTOCOLS, DISCOUNTED RT-PCR TRAVELERS NEED TO KNOW
Health and safety protocols have been put in place by the provincial government so tourists can make the most out of their time in the province.
Before visiting Bohol, travelers must have a negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test taken 72 hours before the date of travel, pre-booked accommodations at DOT-accredited or Ultimate Bohol Experience (UBE) certified establishments, travel itinerary including confirmed tour bookings through DOT-accredited tour operators (if going on tour), and registration in the Province of Bohol website at tourism.bohol.gov.ph for the issuance of personal QR codes that will serve as the tourists’ electronic IDs. Bohol allows the use of saliva RT-PCR tests in place of nasal and throat swabs as of February 2, 2021.
Tourists coming from Metro Manila are encouraged to apply for the subsidized RT-PCR test at the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) or at the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC) for as low as PHP900 and PHP750, respectively. To avail of this 50% discount, visit the site at www.tpb.gov.ph/rtpcrphtravel.
To check out up-to-date information regarding destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, one may visit www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.
THINGS TO DO IN BOHOL
With the travel sale, more people have a chance to see the gorgeous sights and experience fun-filled activities in Bohol. Among these is the Alona beach, a stunning 1.5 km stretch of white-sand beach, famous for being a must-visit spot for those who love snorkeling, scuba diving or even those who just like to relax and watch the sunset. Travelers can also island-hop to Balicasag and Virgin Islands to explore Bohol’s marine life.
When one speaks of Bohol, the Chocolate Hills cannot be left out. These 1,776 individual hills spread across six towns have attracted tourists from many generations for their uniqueness and vastness. The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, a place dedicated to saving the lives of endangered tarsiers, is also open for those who want to learn more about these small nocturnal primates.
ATV rentals, zipline, cable car rides, stand-up paddleboarding tours, and water bike rides are also available for those who are in for a little adventure.
FEATURED PARTNERS AT THE ONLINE TRAVEL FAIR
Participating establishments and tour agencies for the Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale include the following:
Amarela Resort
Amorita Resort
Be Grand Hotel
Bohol Bee Farm
The Bellevue Resort
Best Western Plus The Ivywall Panglao Resort
Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort
Bohol Beach Club
Chocolate Hills Adventure Park
The Acacia Glamping
Donatela Resort and Sanctuary
Loboc River Resort
Mithi Resort and Spa
South Palms Resorts Panglao
Modala Beach Resort
Angels Wings Travel & Tours
Baclayon Travel & Tours
Bohol Holidays Travel & Tours Inc.
Coordinates Tours and Travel
Dagohoy Travel & Tours
Travel Village
Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale is sponsored by Cebu Pacific Air and is powered by Atlantis.
December 22, 2020
DOT Launches new “Have a Safe Trip, Pinas” Videos to Guide Local Tourists on How to Travel Safely in the New Normal
“Have a Safe Trip, Pinas” is the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) latest campaign focused on promoting the observance of health and safety protocols among local tourists and the general public when traveling amidst the pandemic.
The campaign aims to promote safe travels in the new normal and, in this new series, utilizes Pinoy humor to drive the message across. The videos showcase safety precautions on enjoying the amenities, dining in a restaurant, boarding tourist transport, and booking a hotel starring actors Kim Molina, Beauty Gonzalez, and Jun Sabayton. The video also includes guest appearances of comedian and theatre actor Jerald Napoles.
In the video series, DOT advises everyone to observe “Physical Distancing Always” or “PDA.”, while to cooperate in temperature checks and filling up health declaration. The DOT also emphasizes the need to sanitize often, wear a mask and face shield, and opt for contactless transactions.
The videos show that guests are required to book in advance to avoid crowding. The limited capacity in establishments gives guests more “me time” and “space” for peace and relaxation. Also, recycling and taking care of the environment are still a must when going on vacation.
The series highlights that all leisure activities are still welcome as long as guests follow the safety guidelines and that tourists can still experience the beauty and joy in travel amidst the pandemic. As the trio says at the end, “Enjoy guys. Travel safe. Mabuhay! Pag naglalakbay.
Recently, DOT released a rendition of the song “You,” performed by Armi Millare, along with a narrative of a young man and woman meeting on an island to highlight the magic of traveling even in the most unusual of times.
Visit philippines.travel/safetrip for information on reopened destinations and their respective health and safety protocols. The DOT official app is also available for download at app.philippines.travel.
Watch the series at DOT's social media pages:
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism/posts/4221639637862876
https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism/videos/382609846344413
https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism/videos/2483471495280339
Twitter
https://twitter.com/TourismPHL/status/1332164745500254215?s=20
https://twitter.com/TourismPHL/status/1337698714895360001?s=20
https://twitter.com/TourismPHL/status/1338423526185783301?s=20
Instagram:
Youtube:
November 24, 2020
DOT chief visits Baguio City, touts cultural tourism with creative crawls
The Department of Tourism (DOT) touts cultural tourism in Baguio as it remains optimistic that initiatives such as the IbagĆw Festival will sustain the treasured traditions and art forms of the city.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat at the Baguio Convention Center with National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik. Photo courtesy of Denison G. Manuel
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said that the DOT will continue to promote Baguio as a creative city and support its development for arts and culture. The move to highlight Baguio’s cultural tourism comes as the city celebrates Ibagiw 2020, a month-long creative festival that showcases its rich and vibrant culture and history.
“Baguio is more than just its natural wonders, and we want more Filipinos to rediscover what UNESCO designated as a Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts. Initiatives like Ibagiw will certainly help revive tourism in the region and jumpstart the local economy,” said Secretary Puyat.
Puyat visited Baguio to see Ibagiw 2020’s highlights such as its lineup of creative crawls and series of tours that showcase Baguio’s artistic and cultural heritage sites.
She added, "Experiencing the Ibagiw 2020 festival ensures the bright future of Baguio’s creative economy while keeping its traditions and art forms alive.”
She began the tour at the newly-refurbished Baguio Convention Center, with an ongoing exhibit called “Interlinked.” The Tourism Secretary personally met with National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik who created pieces that explore themes of “community, collective memory, personal and cultural identity, environmental activism, social commentary, contemporary society, humor, and local color" together with local artists.
On the spot weaving at the Sunshine Park for the Art in the Park Opening Ceremony.
She also visited the Art in the Park at Sunshine Park to witness different activities such as spot painting by local visual artists, craft demonstrations by local artisans such as textile-weaving and wood-carving, and a photo exhibit of native plants in the Philippines.
Local artists showcase their artworks at Sunshine Park for the Art in the Park Opening. The exhibit will run until November 30, 2020.
Meanwhile, those who want to participate in the crawl can explore the Mirador Hill, a nine-hectare Jesuit property that offers breathtaking views of Baguio and Benguet’s breathtaking views. This is followed by a trip to the BenCab Museum where works of the national artist for Visual Arts Benedicto Cabrera, other Filipino masters, and rising contemporary creatives are exhibited.
National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera spearheads the Wood Carving Competition held at BenCab Museum
Another itinerary that is part of the creative crawl is Ili-Likha Artists Village, the brainchild of Kidlat Tahimik. Built around trees redesigned with recycled materials, the village showcases artistic works, and serves as an inspiration hub for local and emerging artists.
This is followed by a trip to the Mandeko Kito Artisanal Market, an arts and crafts fair organized by the University of the Philippines Baguio, to feature local talent in the Cordillera Region. Lastly, guests will visit the Museo Kordilyera, the first ethnographic museum in the northern part of the country. Its collection includes works that celebrate the regional culture and the heritage.
DOT’s support of Baguio’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship in wood carving, silver craft, weaving, tattooing, and more could help support the livelihood of locals and help the city recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic has brought on challenges for everyone, especially those working in the tourism industry. Creative crawls bring guests to places they may not have visited before, thus supporting more locals. This means no one gets left behind as we rebuild tourism,” shares Puyat.
Those who wish to go to Baguio after Ibagiw 2020 can still experience the creative crawl through accredited tour operators.
For more information about the Philippines, visit app.philippines.travel.
December 3, 2019
Enriching the tourism industry through knowledge-sharing
November 21, 2019
DOT leads bayanihan movement to “Save Our Spots”
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