New Airbnb data shows how tourism has dispersed post-pandemic, benefiting rural off-the-beaten-path communities in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

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●     Across parts of Southeast Asia and Asia Pacific, Airbnb recorded an increase in non-urban nights booked in Q2 2022 when compared with Q2 2019

●     In the Philippines, travel interest in destinations outside major cities have increased with guest searches for Siquijor surging over 280 percent

●     Tourism dispersal is creating new economic opportunities for more people in emerging destinations as they look for ways to combat rising costs of living

As the travel rebound continues to unfold, the benefits of tourism are spreading across the Asia Pacific. In Southeast Asia, new analysis by Airbnb reveals that the resurgence in domestic and inbound tourism is empowering locals to earn a living and make ends meet.

With people continuing to embrace flexible new approaches to travel and living, communities that have traditionally missed out in the past are increasingly well-positioned to secure a bigger slice of the tourism pie, according to new Airbnb report ‘Further Afield: Spreading the Benefits of the Travel Revolution’. Across the region, this has presented fresh opportunities for locals looking to supplement their income as they grapple with rising costs of living.

Across the Asia Pacific, Airbnb nights booked in non-urban areas have increased in South Korea (up more than 180 percent ), India (up about 140 percent), and Australia (up about 60 percent) in Q2 2022 as compared to Q2 2019. In Southeast Asia, searches for stays in Siquijor in the Philippines surged by more than 280 percent while searches for Marang in Malaysia almost doubled.

The typical earnings for non-urban Hosts increased correspondingly in the same period for a number of destinations. In Australia and South Korea, typical host earnings have more than doubled as travel returned in full force. In the Philippines, almost half of local Airbnb hosts surveyed said their earnings have helped them navigate rising costs of living including housing, daily necessities, and home improvement needs.

Not only are travelers eyeing destinations off the beaten path, they’re also looking to stay longer. Notably, nights booked for long-term stays (stays longer than 28 days) in non-urban areas approximately doubled in popular travel and remote working hotspot Thailand in Q2 2022, up from Q2 2019 pre-pandemic.

In Southeast Asia, a number of destinations outside major metropolitan hubs were popular  among travelers on Airbnb for long-term stays in Q2 2022. Examples included:

●       Dapa, Panglao, Dumaguete and Silang in the Philippines

●       Ipoh, Kuah, Semenyih, and Port Dickson in Malaysia

●       Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Lanta and Krabi in Thailand

Mich Goh, Airbnb’s Head of Public Policy for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said: “More than two years since the start of the pandemic, we continue to see fundamental shifts in travel that are creating new opportunities for off-the-beaten-track communities. It’s incredibly exciting to see travelers so enthusiastic about exploring new destinations, as well as the positive economic impact cascading to locals.

“The increasing popularity of Dapa, Panglao, Dumaguete and Silang reinforce the importance of the Department of Tourism’s plans to drive tourism development in the countryside and promote lesser-known destinations.  We are committed to continuing to work together with governments and stakeholders to keep inspiring travelers to step off the beaten path, and help ensure more communities can share in the benefits of tourism.”

In addition to encouraging travelers to explore further afield through innovative search tools such as Categories and I’m Flexible, Airbnb remains committed to partnering with governments and communities in Southeast Asia, including in the Philippines. The company has partnered with Thailand and Indonesia’s tourism authorities on a range of ‘Live and Work Anywhere’ initiatives to attract global digital nomads and remote workers, as part of broader efforts to drive inbound tourism as travel returns.

Readers can view the full report here https://news.airbnb.com/further-afield/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 about us and our industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including, but not limited to, statements regarding travel trends, the travel industry and the future of travel, the behavior of Hosts and guests and about our future performance, prospects, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements.

In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “plan,” “expect,” “could,” “potential,” “objective,” or “continues” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations. Although we believe that we have a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement contained in this press release, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, or events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur at all.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the objectives expressed or implied in this press release. Therefore, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the effects and duration of the evolving COVID-19 pandemic on us, the travel industry, travel trends, and the global economy generally; any further and continued decline or disruption in the travel and hospitality industries or economic downturn; changes in political, business, and economic conditions, including current geopolitical tensions and regional instability; and the other risks listed or described from time to time in Airbnb’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including Airbnb’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and subsequent Form 10-Qs and Form 8-Ks, which are, or will be, on file with the SEC and available on the investor relations page of Airbnb’s website.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are based on information and estimates available to us as of the date of this press release. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or revise any information contained in this press release, except as required by law.

CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), a Dreamy BeachTown for Entrepreneurs Where Working from Anywhere Means Working from Paradise

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The freedom to take one’s business wherever one goes is a perk of entrepreneurial life. The pandemic has even fast-tracked the new norm to take the office wherever one opts to park his laptop. If working from anywhere has become the lifestyle of choice of entrepreneurs, where else can they work other than the seaside paradise of CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), one of Landco’s latest BeachTowns in Batangas.

Luckily for entrepreneurs, the 15-hectare CaSoBe progresses towards completion. The master-planned development offers mix-use residential and commercial lots situated in the rising business hub and beach tourist destination. The development features wide open spaces and beautiful promenades, with parks and retail landscapes.

Setting it apart from other beach properties, CaSoBe elevates the resort lifestyle with inviting details such as blue roads, street art, and creative lamp posts. Hospitality amenities are already fully operational and managed by Millennial Resorts. The 300-capacity event space called Canopy was recently opened to serve the growing tourism market of Calatagan.

The sprawling BeachTown is only three hours away from Metro Manila and is complete with a strong WI-FI connection, modern infrastructure, and resort amenities.

The development is close to numerous golf courses, polo fields, and tourist attractions which earned Calatagan the moniker of being the playground of the affluent. Local facilities such as a hospital, public market, pharmacy, school, and chapel are likewise easily accessible.

Work-Life Balance for Entrepreneurs

All the lots at CaSoBe are literally within steps to the long stretch of powdery white sand beach. The property’s blue pavements are pleasing to the eye and in harmony with the environment of expansive clear skies and azure waters. There are tree-lined bike lanes and pathways parallel and leading to the shores.

Harbour Estates are mix-use lots offered within CaSoBe. Entrepreneurs can live a healthy lifestyle and build their dream homes amid Calatagan’s rich history and famed sunset by the beach backdrop.

Transforming the landscape of Calatagan, entrepreneurs can invest in a property along the retail row and wear the hat of aspiring hoteliers or restaurateurs when they establish their bed and breakfast or cozy little café or restaurant to cater to the tourism market. They can also put up a shop for art workshops and yoga retreats, or a business for water sports enthusiasts.

CaSoBe is also poised to be a thriving creative, business, and tech community. Startup companies can engage in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

One can network and hustle by day, and live the vacation life with family and friends in between breaks, by night, and on weekends in the postcard-perfect setting of CaSoBe, with its stunning sunsets.

Resort Lifestyle

Enhancing the resort lifestyle experience in CaSoBe, Millennial Resorts offers premium hospitality amenities. It manages the unconventional accommodations of the surreal capsule-like rooms of the Cocoons with exteriors painted with murals depicting marine life and Crusoe Cabins which are repurposed container vans that are rustic-looking huts on the outside but are contemporary rooms with modern amenities, with options for beachfront and garden view.

Millennial Resorts also feature Aquaria, a water park with a three-story pool slide, Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar, and Canopy, the newly-opened event space.

To ensure the continuous productivity of entrepreneurs, the Colony will soon rise as a modern and hip beachside co-working space.

MILLI, the Millennial Resorts’ digital service app provides seamless reservations and transactions on property.

Future-proof investment

Entrepreneurs who will invest in the residential or mix-use lots of CaSoBe have the benefit of enjoying the anticipated increase of their investment’s market value as proven by Landco’s track record of property value appreciation in Punta Fuego, Batangas.

Eco-Friendly BeachTown

CaSoBe is a sustainable development envisioned to contribute to the quality of leisure tourism and property development targeting environment, economic, and social sustainability. CaSoBe is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-registered and Millennial Resorts, the operator of its hospitality amenities, is the first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)-certified resort in the country. Various CSR and sustainability activities are undertaken for the conservation of marine sanctuary and community assistance in CaSoBe and its vicinity.

Landco is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and is known for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years. For more information about the Landco BeachTown CaSoBe, visit landco.ph or FB page @LandcoPacificCorporation or view the official video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCozyNNq51E.

DOT Presents “Escape: Stories from the Road” Podcast

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The Department of Tourism (DOT) presents its first podcast, “Escape: Stories from the Road,” showcasing the best destinations in the Philippines through stories from different personalities

Escape: Stories from the Road

This five-episode podumentary, a combination of podcast and documentary, infuses an element of storytelling, veering away from the usual question-and-answer formats of podcasts. Through these stories, the DOT hopes to reach out to the various audiences and inspire them to participate in meaningful tourism through unique experiences and local interactions.

One of the special guests, National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, shared stories about Baguio—his home and a UNESCO Creative City. Photo courtesy of Kidlat De Guia.

Each episode follows a theme, such as adventure, identity, fiestas, music and food. Among the notable individuals interviewed for this podcast are National Artist Kidlat Tahimik; Dr. Felicidad Prudente, who is one of the leading Filipino ethnomusicologists in the country today; and former Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

Paragliding adventure in Nueva Vizcaya. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

The first episode on adventure features some of the best outdoor experiences in Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, and Camotes Island; while the identity episode brings the audience from Baguio to Davao to share stories of people who, in finding the path to gain their identity, found the path to greatness.

The episode on music explores the sounds of the islands, from the city to the remote forests of the Philippines, emphasizing that music not only serves to entertain but to preserve history in our soundscape. The fiesta episode discusses how Filipino festivals have evolved from honoring patron saints to highlighting the best of the towns and provinces.

For the food episode that was recorded in May, then Tourism Secretary Puyat shared her advocacy in supporting local farmers and how this led to further developing food and farm tourism in the country.

DOT’s “Escape: Stories from the Road” podcast is hosted by travel filmmaker and photographer Aaron Palabyab along with guest co-hosts, national athlete Maureen Schrijvers; designer, musician, and filmmaker Kate Torralba; and sports broadcaster and podcaster Cesca Litton. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Castro, Overcast, and Anchor.

‘Go where your mind’s been wandering’ – A new campaign by the DOT, TPB, and BBDO Guerrero

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The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) have launched a beautiful outdoor, press, and online campaign, with the help of BBDO Guerrero, to promote domestic tourism in the Philippines as the country recovers from the pandemic and travel restrictions are eased.

The campaign 'Go where your mind's been wandering,' highlights the re-opening of 10 popular tourist destinations, from white sand beaches to strawberry farms, in captivating photos that illustrate the unique characteristics of each place and, if you look closely, reveal a silhouette of a hidden face.

From surfing in La Union, diving in Cebu and hiking in Davao, you're sure to find something you love, no matter where your mind's been wandering.

The campaign was produced together with STILLS MNL Photographer Jason Quibilan and UGL Post Production with minimal retouching, inviting domestic tourists to rediscover the beauty of the Philippines - safely and responsibly.

Stop dreaming, start planning, now ‘go where your mind’s been wandering’.

DOT Launches “Sounds More Fun in the Philippines” Playlist on Spotify

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The Department of Tourism (DOT) presents the “Sounds More Fun in the Philippines” Playlist, a compilation of specially selected Filipino music that will welcome listeners back to the Philippine destinations they love, and let them relive those epic travel memories.

The initial playlists will be available on the digital music streaming app Spotify. The first 10 playlists to be launched are Manila Night Lights, Boracay Beach Bar, Onshore in La Union, Cordillera Calm, The Pan-Philippine Highway Road Trip, Marilaque Bike Trail Mix, Balikbayan Juke Box, Counting Clouds in Camiguin, Wedding Vows in Tagaytay and Deep Dive in Palawan.

The chosen songs aim to set the soundtrack of one’s stories—like the Cordillera Clam playlist that provides laidback OPM tunes to warm the bones like a strong cup of Cordillera coffee; or the Boracay Beach Bar playlist that surrounds one with beach vibes perfect for grooving; or the Manila Night Lights that brings listeners back to the eras of disco, dance-rock, and neo soul, reliving those dazzling nights when the city truly comes alive.

“These tunes will allow listeners to evoke the getaways, secret spots, and homes away from home that every traveler can find somewhere across the 7,641 islands of the Philippines.”, said Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. 

The playlists are attuned for every kind of listener—the listed songs can be played loud to get one going before that early morning bike trail, or to keep them company on an epic road trip; or these can be played softly in the background as one savors the bliss that follows a good surf, or daydreams while lounging and gazing at the sea on a white sand beach. 

Through this, the DOT intends to provide the feeling that, wherever you are, the fun is never far away.  

To create the playlists, the DOT enlisted the help of Filipino music obsessives. These include legendary rock DJ and Sandwich bassist Myrene Academia, podcast personality Ryan Joseph, music pundit Jocelyn Blwg, Matt San Pedro of Manila Community Radio and Transit Records, musicologist Patricia Brillante-Silvestre, and music producer Abdel Aziz. 

The songs and artists featured in these playlists are Pinoys as well as international artists and bands with Filipino roots.

Follow DOT’s official Spotify account, Tourism Philippines, and explore the archipelago’s diverse soundscapes and get to know the artists who made the music that has defined generations and those that are charting its future course.

#SoundsMoreFunInThePhilippines is a celebration of why—and where—music sounds more fun in the Philippines.

Millennial Resorts Achieve the First and Prestigious EDGE Certification for Resort Hospitality in the Philippines

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Strengthening its Commitment to Environmental Sustainability in Batangas

Millennial Resorts achieved the very first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for a resort hospitality project in the country, with its Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas. The EDGE Certification was awarded by Philippine Green Building Initiative, Inc. (PGBI) which recognized Crusoe Cabins for its eco-efficient design that result in reduction of 34% in energy, 57% in water and 65% in embodied energy in materials compared to local base case.

“We are truly proud of this recognition of Millennial Resorts as the first recipient of the highly-coveted EDGE Certification for a resort project in the Philippines. We share this honor with our relentless team who make it possible for us to put into action Landco’s long-term commitment to social, economic and environmental sustainability in premium property developments for more than 30 years across the country,” said Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of both Landco Pacific Corporation and Millennial Resorts Corporation (MRC).

“Being eco-conscious is ingrained in both Landco and MRC’s DNAs. We do it, first and foremost, because it is the right thing to do. Millennial Resorts’ EDGE Certification complements our over-all sustainability program at our latest Leisure Tourism Estates in Batangas – 15-hectare CaSoBe and 24-hectare Club Laiya, both of which are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Registered and incorporate water recycling, permeable pedestrian tree-lined walkways, and scenic bike lanes around the beachside properties to further reduce our carbon footprints,” he added.

“Millennial Resorts team is grateful for this certification which shows our responsibility to the environment as we preserve the resort lifestyle and the uniqueness of the beach destination of Batangas. This inspires us to continue to find new ways to minimize our impact on the environment and respect the local community,” stated Patrick C. Gregorio, Senior Consultant for Hospitality, Landco and MRC.

The EDGE Certification demonstrates the leadership and advocacy of Landco and its sister hospitality group, Millennial Resorts in green building design with the use of EDGE software.

“Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) has always championed the integration of sustainability into our business strategy and value creation. We are proud that under the MVP Group, Landco and Millennial Resorts attained the EDGE certification to create a lasting positive impact to the environment and community. This achievement is a concrete example of our holistic and all-inclusive approach to sustainability.,” remarked Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Chief Finance, Sustainability and Risk Officer, Metro Pacific Investment Corporation (MPIC).

EDGE, an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is an international green building standard, rating system and certification available in 160 countries. EDGE brings about solutions to reduce the use of energy, water and embodied energy in materials.

“Sustainable tourism plays a critical role in achieving a green recovery and I’m proud to see resort properties in the Philippines adopting globally-recognized sustainability standards, which will hopefully encourage other industry players to do the same”, said Jean-Marc Arbogast, IFC Country Manager for the Philippines.

Millennial Resorts undertake sustainability initiatives in line with MPIC’s commitment to help achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable; and strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

“Utility savings are not the only reward for a resort’s green credentials, as studies indicate that guests are more loyal to a property, with a commitment to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources,” shared Engr. Leandro A. Conti, PGBI Chairman and President.

“We hope that this EDGE Certification will encourage others to build green resort properties, in the Philippines and in other countries. Only by working together can we create an ecosystem where sustainable resorts are no longer the exception but the norm,” he noted.

Millennial Resorts feature unique resort accommodations: Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea and Cocoons at CaSoBe and Club Laiya; and leisure facilities: Laiya Beach Club at Club Laiya and Aquaria Water Park with a three-story giant slide at CaSoBe and Costa Azalea. Its soon to be launched exciting new facilities are: Captain Barbozza restaurant and bar, Canopy and The Isle -- venues for events, and Colony, a beachside co-working space. Costa Azalea is located in Samal Island, Davao.

Landco Pacific Corp. is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation.  For more information about Landco and its Millennial Resorts and Leisure Tourism Estates Club Laiya and CaSoBe, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page: https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

DOT Launches “ASMR Experience the Philippines” Project

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The Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) invites everyone to go on an ambient sound trip and experience a destination through the distinct sounds that can be heard when all is quiet.

In launching the “ASMR Experience the Philippines” Project, the DOT aims to bring people to certain destinations through ASMR videos that explore the natural sounds of a place, allowing one to tune into nature and be fully present in the moment.

The Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (QJEP) defines Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) as a “special perceptual phenomenon in which some people can experience a tingling, static-like sensation in response to some certain auditory or visual stimulations”. It brings a pleasant feeling that one experiences in response to certain sounds, visuals, feelings, or descriptions. The sensation leads to contentment and relaxation.

“This project of the DOT is anchored on the concept that, when people travel, they go ‘sightseeing’, but it is with their ears that they hear and sense things all around them. Through these videos, people get to share with the travel experience,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.

The Municipality of Barlig in Mountain Province offers a captivating view of the world famous rice terraces. Photo by @celluloidmanila, courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

The initial four ASMR videos that will be launched feature the Mountain Province in the Cordilleras, particularly the remote town of Barlig located at the foothills of Mt. Amuyao and the journey to the summit of the mountain. 

With Mountain Province currently under Alert Level 4, and the rest of the country under the observation of different alert level restrictions, these videos will allow viewers to experience the grandeur of Mountain Province no matter where they are, through their video devices.

The trail to the peak of Mt. Amuyao, the highest point of Mountain Province. Photo by @celluloidmanila, courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

The first video for the Mountain Province series, featuring a walk in the serene town of Barlig and its amazing terraces, has already been launched on DOT’s YouTube channel and can be accessed through this link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjJeD2qsshyH_uDuKLjassvLUulHCwKmS. This is the first of several ASMR video series. The succeeding video series will explore Ilocos Norte, then destinations in Visayas and Mindanao.

Located at Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Saud Beach was hailed as one of the Travel + Leisure’s list of 25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

Recorded using Ambisonics, the audio is captured in a 360-degree sphere from the position of the microphone. This immersive experience teleports the viewer/listener to the environment. One can leave this on in the background as unobtrusive, calming noises throughout the day.

For best experience, use open back headphones, but any headphones, earphones, or earbuds will also work. 

All ASMR videos can be accessed through the DOT official YouTube channel. Subscribe to get updates when new videos are uploaded.

The PAL Hiraya Travel Pass: An Industry First

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Here is how Philippine Airlines’ Hiraya Flight Pass can make your dream travel and family vacations possible.

When was the last time you flew to your favorite local island destination?

With travel restrictions gradually easing up, domestic tourism is steadily making a comeback.

Philippine Airlines has launched a new smart tool to give passengers the best deals for their travels - the PAL Hiraya Flight Pass, the first and only Customizable and Shareable flight travel pass in the domestic travel industry.

As vaccination ramps up and as safety protocols are strengthened, domestic travel is expected to lead the way in reviving Philippine tourism.

The Inter-Agency Task Force has recently allowed point-to-point interzonal travel from the National Capital Region to areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) and/or Modified GCQ for individuals below 18 years of age; fully vaccinated individuals over 65 years of age; fully vaccinated individuals with health risks; and fully vaccinated pregnant women. Additionally, individuals ages 18 to 65, regardless of vaccination status, continue to be allowed to travel.

Destinations like Boracay, Siargao, Bohol, and Palawan are just some of the island destinations that are welcoming domestic travelers who are longing to revisit or experience for the first time their majestic beaches, unique culture, gastronomic offerings and more. Just bear in mind to check the latest travel requirements and safety protocols that must be followed for fun and safe travels.

As you plan for your upcoming trips, Philippine Airlines offers a new smart tool to get the best deals for your travels -- the PAL Hiraya Flight Pass, the first and only Customizable and Shareable flight travel pass in the domestic travel industry.

Through Hiraya Flight Pass, you can conveniently pre-purchase flights with open travel dates within one year to the Widest Local Destinations for one or multiple passengers.Passengers can create a personalized flight pass that best suits their needs and wants. You can customize the pass according to your desired number of flights, destinations, travel period, cabin class, travel date restrictions, fare type, booking class availability, and passengers who can book and fly. The price of the Flight Pass depends on the pass features selected by the passengers.

Through Hiraya Flight Pass, passengers can conveniently pre-purchase flights with open travel dates within one year to the Widest Local Destinations for one or multiple passengers.

Aside from the convenience and flexibility of booking flights, Hiraya Flight Pass allows you to get Bigger Savings up to 50% savings on flight costs. Passengers may pre-purchase flights for multiple destinations at a pre-set low price. Since low fares are locked in, you need not worry about fare increases. The more flights bought, the more affordable it gets.

Additionally, the Hiraya Flight Pass can be shared with family members, friends or work colleagues. At the time of purchase, there is no need to specifically input the names of your companions. You can add the names of people you want to share the pass with at a later time.

As you make plans to revisit your dream destination with your friends and family, experience the ease, convenience and flexibility the new Hiraya Flight Pass provides.

Before you fly, please make sure to check out the travel requirements of your chosen destination.

The Hiraya Flight Pass allows passengers to create a personalized flight pass that best suits their needs and wants. They can customize it based on their desired number of flights, destinations, travel period, cabin class, travel date restrictions, fare type, and booking class availability.

Visit https://hirayaflightpass.philippineairlines.com for more information about Hiraya Flight Pass.

DOT puts a spotlight on the Pampanga-Clark-Cebu City Interregional Tour

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With the easing of restrictions on leisure travel, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has started to promote the various tourism circuits that it had been developing throughout the year. One of these is the Pampanga-Clark-Cebu City interregional tour that involves a diverse set of tourism attractions and experiences and their respective award-winning international airports.

The newly built Clark International Airport Terminal 2. Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism Region 3

“We have been ramping up our efforts to vaccinate our tourism workers so that we restore confidence in people to travel again. Now, with the resumption of leisure travel, we are encouraging tourists to visit destinations that have a high number of fully vaccinated tourism workers,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.

For Pampanga, including Clark Freeport Zone, 92.08% of its tourism workers have already been vaccinated. Tourists can now safely visit the restaurants of Pampanga, the country’s culinary capital, and explore the province’s sites, such as the Bacolor Church, Mt. Arayat National Park, Diaspora Farm Resort, Lubao Bamboo Hub, and the various attractions at the Clark Freeport Zone, like Clark Natural Park, Dinosaur Island, Clark Museum, to name a few.

Some of the colorful displays found at the Clark Museum in Pampanga. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism

For Metro Cebu, which includes Cebu City, 93.74% of tourism workers have been inoculated. Travelers can now visit these sites in Cebu City: Adlawon Farm, Sirao Flower Garden, Magellan's Cross, Sto. Nino Church, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Hamabar, Cebu Heritage Monument, Colon Obelisk, and Museo Sugbo, among others.

This particular interregional tour showcases not only the best of Pampanga, Clark, and Cebu City, but also encourages safe travel by air and highlights alternative gateways that tourists can utilize, such as the Clark International Airport and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Current available Cebu-Clark-Cebu flights are serviced by Philippine Airlines every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, and by Cebu Pacific every Tuesday and Thursday.

The historical Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism

The DOT chief said that with the reopening of domestic tourism in the country, they aim to provide more meaningful experience for travelers while also supporting the restart of the tourism industry and its allied sectors, such as the aviation industry.

For more updates about open destinations in the Philippines and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit www.philippines.travel or download the Travel Philippines app at the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Landco Led the Mangrove Restoration in Laiya, Batangas

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In line with its commitment to environmental and community sustainability, upscale real estate developer Landco Pacific Corporation together with Aplaya Laiya Corporation initiated the mangrove reforestation at an estuary in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas through a recent series of planting of about 3,000 saplings.

Spearheading the mangrove reforestation in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas are shown on photo (From left): Neil Bryant Siy, Vice President, Aplaya Laiya Corp.; Ranel Domingo, Kagawad Laiya, Aplaya, Batangas; Noel Pasco, Head of MENRO (Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office); Allan Estillore, Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) - Region IV; and Erickson Manzano, President and CEO, Landco Pacific Corp.

The project was held in collaboration with Laiya’s local community, barangay and municipal officials, representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and volunteers from Landco executives and staff.

The mangrove tree planting is part of the coastal conservation of Landco to benefit the communities near and around its premium leisure developments in Laiya – Playa Laiya, the master-planned exclusive seaside residential community and Club Laiya, Landco’s latest Leisure Tourism Estates.

“Wherever Landco develops premium Leisure Tourism Estates (LTE’s), our impact on the environment is an important concern. Our company helps ensure the restoration and conservation of the environment within the vicinity of our developments to deliver our commitment to build sustainable communities, undertake our socio-economic responsibility, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations,” stated Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO, Landco Pacific Corporation.

“Our primary goal is to make Batangas a leading sustainable tourist destination,” he emphasized.

“At Landco, our team strives to create a healthy environment for our residents, guests, investors and the community at large. Our company’s role is to be a catalyst for environmental, social and economic development within and surrounding our properties. The welfare of the local community is one of our top priorities and we do our best to engage them positively and productively through employment and their active participation in environmental conservation,” Manzano added.

Landco President and CEO Erickson Manzano led the mangrove tree planting of about 3,000 saplings at an estuary in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas, as part of the company’s commitment to environmental and community sustainability.

Landco’s mangrove tree planting in Batangas was participated by Laiya’s local community, barangay and municipal officials, representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and volunteers from Landco executives and staff.

The launch of the mangrove tree planting was led by Manzano, along with Aplaya Laiya Corp Vice President Neil Bryant Siy; Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) - Region IV Officer In-Charge Allan Estillore; Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) Head Noel Pasco; Laiya Aplaya Kagawad Ranel Domingo representing Barangay Chairman Wivin Llana. Present during the activity were volunteers from Landco, Aplaya Laiya Corporation, and the local community.

Some of the volunteers from the Laiya’s local community and volunteers from Landco team are shown participating in the mangrove tree planting in an estuary in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas.

Within the framework of its long-term sustainability program, Landco’s latest Leisure Tourism Estates -- CaSoBe and Club Laiya are both LEED-registered. Its affiliate Millennial Resorts Corporation is Edge-registered. Over-all, its developments implement practical strategies and solutions focused on sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, waste segregation, marketing campaign on sustainability and ethical consumption, and local communities’ livelihood program on recycling materials, and opportunities for socio-economic growth.

Landco’s sustainability initiatives including its mangrove tree planting are in line with Metro Pacific Investment Corporation’s commitment to help achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable; and strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

For more information about Landco visit https://www.landco.ph/ or FB page: https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.

PH cited Asia’s top beach and dive destination anew in 2021 World Travel Awards

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The Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) announced today that the Philippines is, once again, Asia's leading beach destination and Asia’s leading dive destination at the 28th World Travel Awards (WTA).

“We are elated that the country’s pristine beaches and mesmerizing dive spots have once again been cited as the best in Asia by the prestigious 2021 World Travel Awards. We share this recognition with our tourism stakeholders, local government units, partner agencies, and all Filipinos who have been helping us promote our country’s attractions, products, and culture,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.

Panglao Island, located in Bohol Sea in Central Visayas, is a famous tourist destination known for its

white-sand beaches and world-class diving sites. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

This is the Philippines’ fifth time to win Asia's Leading Beach Destination and the third time in a row since 2019 to win Asia’s Leading Dive Destination award.

The Philippines is still in the running for the following World categories of the 28th World Travel Awards:

● World’s Leading Beach Destination 2021: Philippines

● World’s Leading Dive Destination 2021: Philippines

● World’s Leading Island Destination 2021: Siargao, Philippines

● World’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2021: Intramuros, Philippines

● World’s Leading Tourist Board 2021: Philippines, Department of Tourism

Voting runs until midnight of October 25, 2021 via https://www.worldtravelawards.com/.

Siargao Island, a popular surfing destination, is home to unspoiled white sand beaches. Photo by Beautiful Destinations, courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

The WTA aims to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

“This will boost our efforts to keep the Philippines as a top-of-mind destination for foreign tourists as we await the resumption of international leisure travel to the country, consistent with our “More Fun Awaits” global campaign,” said Puyat..

Some of the country’s top beach destinations, such as Boracay in Aklan, Siargao in Surigao del Norte, and El Nido and Amanpulo in Palawan, have already opened to domestic tourists and are ready to welcome foreign tourists once international borders reopen.

El Nido is a Philippine municipality on Palawan Island. It is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines for its absolutely stunning islands and beaches. Photo by Erwin Lim, courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

Moreover, the PDOT has developed many of the country’s beach destinations, as well as new and existing dive circuits and is constantly identifying potential destinations that may be developed for dive tourism. Top diving spots in the country include the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, Anilao in Batangas, Malapascua and Moalboal in Cebu, Balicasag, Panglao and Anda in Bohol, and Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.

Tubbataha Reef is known for its extraordinary biodiversity, abundant marine life, and breathtaking drop-offs into the open ocean. Photos by Robert Yin.

Anilao in Batangas has some of the best scuba diving for underwater photography in the world, particularly for rare underwater critters and new species of fish. Photo by Evelyn Go, courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

Sombrero Reef in Batangas is a diving site where gorgonians, black coral, shells, rays, grunts, jacks, snappers, and a great variety of soft corals are scattered all over the place. Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism.

The Department also ensures that the safety of visitors remains is prioritized with the strict implementation of health protocols in destinations that have opened their doors to guests. Meanwhile, more than half or about 65.53% of tourism workers in the country have already received their Covid-19 jabs as of October 16.

For more updates and information on the DOT’s campaigns and programs, please visit www.morefunawaits.com.