Department of Tourism declared 2015 will be "Visit the Philippines" year

Tweet

Department of Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr.

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.

PHITEX 2014 was launched, emphasizes "travel with a purpose"

Tweet

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. 

PHITEX post tours start September 5, 2014.

For more information visit www.phitex.ph

Lawmaker seeks to generate more ‘green jobs’ in the Philippines

Tweet

From Davao City, Congressman Karlo Nograles seeks to generate more ‘green jobs’ in new bill, which will be known as the Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2014.

As a complement to the Climate Change Act, Congressman Karlo Nograles of Davao City has filed a new bill that aims to create and establish more environment-friendly industries and services to reduce the adverse effects of climate change in the country.

Congressman Karlo Nograles of Davao City

Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2014, is poised to create employment opportunities that will be less harmful to the environment by using green technology, or innovations that conserve natural resources.

“With the adverse effects of climate change being felt around the world and its increasing threat to lives and properties, nations have found it imperative to facilitate and guide the process of making industries less harmful to the environment,” Nograles said.

Promoting climate-smart industries and services is a part of the National Climate Change Action Plan, as mandated by the Climate Change Act.

Green jobs are employment opportunities that produce goods and services that benefit and preserve the environment. These particularly involve business enterprises that use fewer natural resources in their production processes.

Sharing the vision of the Climate Change Act, Nogralesalso recognizes the integral role of labor in minimizing the impact of disasters brought by climate change, and maximizing the potential benefits of climate change as well.

More than highlighting labor as an essential economic force needed in sustainable development, the Nograles bill seeks to promote the right of individuals to a safe and clean ecology. To carry this out, Nograles said the government shall identify needed skills and develop programs for research and the training of workers.

“The bill requires the government to strengthen the capacity of workers and businesses to prevent, manage, mitigate and adapt to, the adverse impact of climate change and disasters and continue to create, sustain or expand opportunities for employment, by improving ourbusiness climate and working conditions,” he said.

To recognize efforts, fiscal incentives will be granted to individuals and enterprises who participate in the creation of green jobs, use green technologies, and produce green goods and services. This is also to encourage others to engage in the same practices.

The bill entitles participants to special deductions from gross income amounting to 200 percent of the total grants over and above the allowable ordinary and necessary business deductions under the National Internal Revenue Code. Incentives shall be administered by the Department of Finance.

The Climate Change Commission is tasked to formulate standards for the certification of green technologies, good and services that will be used in the granting of the said incentives.

As a long-term goal, Nograles also seeks to utilize the bill as a stepping stone towards a green economy—one that is “low-carbon” and “resource-efficient,” contributes to the well-being of constituents, and reduces environmental risks.

“As countries all over the world collectively move toward a more sustainable economy, public policy must center on developing a green jobs agenda, enhancing workers skills, and ensuring a just transition to a green economy,” Nograles said.

As the overall in charge of generating green jobs, the Department of Labor and Employment is tasked under the bill to create a national green jobs human resource development plan, which will sustain the transition into a green economy.

“It shall include programs, projects, and activities pertaining to basic, higher and technical vocational education and training, a database that identifies and links green job opportunities with private and public entities, and information on knowledge and skill requirements of a green economy,” Nograles said.

The bill also seeks to delegate the Secretary of Labor and Employment as an additional member of the Climate Change Commission, as well as mandates the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to design and implement the appropriate curriculum in support of the green economy.

CCP's 45th anniversary celebration, with Dulce, Isay Alvarez, Sheila Francisco, Karylle lead 'Musikal'

Tweet

In celebration of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ 45thanniversary, around 200 theater actors performed for what may be called the “biggest gathering of theater superstars” in history – “Musikal,” held last Friday (September 5) and Saturday (September 6) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

The celebration was led by theater superstars Isay Alvarez and Robert Sena, Sheila Francisco, Dulce, and Karylle, who did not take her spot in the front line during the All-Star Finale.

Karylle’s gesture was lauded by some people who noted her humility.

A guest, who refused to be named, said, “Karylle obviously had a spot in the first row, but she was humble enough to stick to her place beside theater heavyweights like Isay, Robert, Dulce, and Sheila. Aside from her excellent performance that night, her humility and character shone during ‘Musikal.’”

Karylle performed lead roles in stage musicals like “The Little Mermaid,” “West Side Story,” and “Cinderella,” and reprised her Sita role from last year’s successful staging of Ballet Philippines’ “Rama Hari.”

“Musikal” opened with the overture by The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra with Gerard Salonga.

The revue started with musicals, which tackled old Philippines – “Walang Sugat,” represented by the comic spot “Makikiliti Kang Totoo,” performed by international musical star Sheila Francisco and Red Nuestro. It was followed by chosen numbers from “Ang Kababaihan Ng Malolos” and “San Andres B.”

The Ryan Cayabyab Singers performed a medley of songs from the musical “Lorenzo,” which elicited loud applause from the audience.

Former Sugarfree vocalist Ebe Dancel’s vocals soared in the “Rock Supremo” spot. He was accompanied by Ballet Philippines’ stars Carissa Adea, Kathrina Trofeo, and Richardson Yadao.

Children musicals came next. The segment opened with “Sandosenang Sapatos,” followed by last year’s multi-awarded “Bluebird of Happiness,” and “Batang Rizal.”

The “vaudeville” musicals were presented next with Roeder’s sexy, comic number “Titina” and the showstopping “Aba Ba Boogie,” from the 1980’s hit musical Katy with Isay Alvarez, star of last year’s revival.

The first act closed on a high note with a performance of some of the songs from Ryan Cayabyab and Bienvenido Lumbera’s “Noli Me Tangere” by the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers and the “Munting Pangarap” number of perhaps the most successful musical in recent years “Rak of Aegis.”

The second act opened with Myke Salomon’s performance of “Magsimula Ka.” Followed by spots from Ateneo’s “Sinta,” “Toilet the Musical,” and Ed Gatchalian’s “Rivalry.”

The cast of “Sa Wakas” performed next with the song “Bawat Daa

These numbers mirror the youth’s psyche.

The “Himala” spot was undeniably intense with powerhouse performances from May Bayot, Isay Alvarez, Cynthia Guico. and Dulce.

The mood turned gay when Myke Salomon opened the “Rainbow Segment,” with performances from “gay-themed” musicals like “Caredivas,” “Zsa Zsa Zaturnah,” and “Maxie.”

These fun numbers were followed by a revue of “Rama Hari,” perhaps the most important Filipino musical as it was made by icons of the industry – National Artists Bien Lumbera, Alice Reyes, and Salvador Bernal with the respected Ryan Cayabyab.

“Rama Hari” is based on the love story of Rama and Sita, as presented in the Asian epic “Ramayana.”

OJ Mariano (Rama) opened the suite with “Tagistis ng Ulan.” He was followed by Karylle (Sita), who looked every inch a royalty. She sang the most popular tune from the musical – “Magbalik Ka Na Mahal.” Then, a dance solo was performed by dancers from Ballet Philippines. Robert Sena joined OJ and Karylle for “Awit ng Pagsinta.”

The “Rama Hari” was greeted by thunderous applause.

“Musikal” ended with “Minsan Ang Minahal Ay Ako,” a song from the musical “Katy.” The said anthemic song has unofficially been the “theme of stage performers.” Dulce, Isay, and Aicelle, stars of last year’s revival, led all the performers in singing the song

After that magical, emotional number, thunderous applause, and a long standing ovation greeted the more than 200 cast members of “Musikal,” further proving that the local theater industry is experiencing a new “high.”

#3LaBS : Laguna Blogging Summit 2014

Tweet

Laguna Blogging Summit has been presenting Social Revolutionists for showing their advocacies without fear, conveying their voices effectively with action,  empowered  from the mainstream media and online as influencing their communities and by being the representatives of social forces.

The 3LaBS  will be held on October 3, 2014,  8am to 5pm at Malayan College, Cabuyao, Laguna   to be hosted by Rod Magaru and Florencio Jusay Jr.

 

On it's 3rd year now (#3LaBS),  the theme for this year's  Summit is "Social Influencer."

Presented by Elabram Systems Group, the Telecommunications Manpower Service provider for the biggest players in the industry for 15 years globally and 5 years in the Philippines believes that the way for brand awareness and advocacy dissemination is through Digital Marketing and being Social Offline.

Seven Speakers will share their expertise:

Art Samaniego Jr (Manila Bulletin Tech Guru)

Boris Joaquin (Saddleback Church)

Pocholo De Leon Gonzalez (The Voice Master of the Philippines)

Janette Toral (Digital Filipino)

Lloyd Luna (The Filipino Motivational Speaker)

Grace Bondad Nicolas (Laguna Blogging Summit Founder)

Rod Magaru (Rod Magaru Show). 

Different Social Media, Digital Marketing and Influencers Marketing Summits are happening in the metro for years and true to what the organizers advocacy till now is still to bring the best speakers who can explain very well the Impact of Digital Marketing & Social Media in our lives to Laguna. The organizers believes that sharing information is the key for awareness thus gave birth to the first Laguna Blogging Summit 3 years ago. 

Happy and overwhelmed from the two previous ( 1LaBS and 2LaBS ), Laguna Blogging Summit with 1000 attendees, the organizers for this 2014 offers a different venue and additional new speakers who will talk about Impact of Social Media to Journalism to using Social Media in building a Church in the Philippines. Grace Bondad Nicolas will talk simply about Blogging 101 for newbies while the rest about their expertise in Branding & Digital Marketing. 

This is brought to us by Elabram Systems Group (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand). 

Sponsors:

Gardenia Bread Philippines, Greenwich Pizza, Kinder Zoo Adventure Jungle inside Manila Zoo & inside Picnic Grove Tagaytay and Zoomanity Group (Zoobic Safari in Subic Zambales, Paradizoo in Mendez Cavite, Zoocolate Thrills Bohol, Zoocobia Pampanga, Residence Inn Tagaytay, Z Planet inside Star City). 

Registration Fee: Php 200.00

Laguna Blogging Summit 2014

#3LaBS 

Ask us in how to become a sponsor. 

For more information:

Grace Bondad Nicolas

M: 09213191471

E: gracenicolas@yahoo.com