Another First: Philippines to Host the World Travel Awards in September

The Philippines is solidifying its position as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination by hosting, for the first time, the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony. The red-carpet event organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) will be held on 03 September 2024 at the City of Dreams Manila.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her enthusiasm, “This not only marks a historical tourism milestone for our country under the Marcos administration, but also serves as a testament to the Philippines' growing prominence and readiness to host high-caliber international events. We are glad that esteemed global organizations, like the World Travel Awards, are recognizing our capacity to deliver world-class hospitality, superior event management, and unparalleled tourism experiences,” adding that the gala is also an avenue to network with various tourism stakeholders in the region.

Discovery hotels and resorts Offer Enticing Deals of up to 54% off and More at the Philippine Travel Mart

Discovery Hospitality is offering enticing promos and exclusive discounts of up to 54% off at the 35th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) from September 6 to 8, 2024 at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.  

Guests can avail of these packages from Discovery Boracay (also known as Discovery Shores Boracay), Discovery Coron (also known as Club Paradise Palawan), Discovery Samal, Discovery Primea, Discovery Suites, and Manami Resort at the group’s booth. 

Get Lifetime Priority Access and Extra Baggage with Sunlight Air and The 815 co.’s new Special Edition Luggage

Earlier this month, alongside the celebration of its fifth anniversary at the Grand Travel Fest 2024, local boutique airline Sunlight Air launched an exclusive Sunlight Air themed luggage line in collaboration with The 815 Co.. Named the Special Edition Collection, the luggage line features a sleek navy exterior and comes in three sizes. As a special treat to purchasers of the Special Edition Collection, each luggage size corresponds to 1-2 kg additional check-in or carry-on baggage allowance for Sunlight Air flights and lifetime rights to priority lane access at the airline’s check-in counters and boarding gates. 

“We wanted to commemorate our fifth year by introducing something new that will further elevate the travel experience of our passengers,” shares Ryna Brito-Garcia, CEO of Sunlight Air. “With The 815 Co., we produced the Special Edition Collection with our passengers’ needs in mind, as well as both aesthetics and functionality that will allow for relaxed and stylish travels with Sunlight Air ahead.”

Discover a New Way of Living at lyf Cebu: Where Every Stay is a Colorful Experience

Carrying the Ascott Limited name and vision in Visayas, lyf Cebu City is a dynamic destination where guests can gather with friends or like-minded individuals for both business and leisure purposes. Located in the heart of Cebu City, lyf Cebu offers an innovative and colorful approach to urban living, providing a flourishing community atmosphere that enhances every aspect of the guest experience.

Cebu City, known as the “Queen City of the South,” is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich historical heritage, stunning beaches, and a thriving business district. Its strategic location in the Central Visayas region makes it an attractive destination for both local and international travelers. Whether you are drawn to its cultural landmarks, diverse culinary scene, or booming economic opportunities, Cebu City offers a perfect blend of work and play, ensuring an unforgettable stay for all visitors.

DOT Chief proposes 24/7 tourist courts in the Philippines

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has proposed the establishment of a new flagship project, the 24/7 tourist courts, to aid in the swift resolution of cases where tourists are involved.

According to the secretary, she proposed the matter during the recent sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang, where the President agreed that the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), will work alongside the DOT to investigate and prosecute crimes related to tourists. 

Fiscal Mechanism to Boost Conservation in the Philippines to Boost Conservation in the Philippines

The Philippines, renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna, is facing a significant challenge: deforestation. In 2010, the country had 13.1 million hectares of natural forest, covering 62% of its land area. However, by 2023, it had lost 32.4 thousand hectares of natural forest, equivalent to a staggering 25.6 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Despite contributing only 0.48% to global carbon emissions, the Philippines is highly vulnerable to the impacts of global warming.

The Philippine government has undertaken several key initiatives to address deforestation. One of the major programs is the National Greening Programme (NGP), which aims to plant 1.5 billion trees across 1.5 million hectares of land by 2028. This initiative not only contributes to reforestation but also generates employment opportunities in the forestry sector. Another significant effort is the Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM), a national strategy overseen by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. This program involves local communities in forest management and conservation efforts. By granting rights to People’s Organizations (POs), it has successfully reduced deforestation rates and promoted sustainable practices.

The Manila Hotel’s Mooncake Offers

In celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, The Manila Hotel is delighted to offer an array of gourmet mooncakes, available at Red Jade and Delicatessen from September 1 to 30, 2024.

This year’s selection showcases a range of traditional and delightful flavors such as Single Yolk Red Bean, Single Yolk Red Bean with Orange Peel, Single Yolk Pure White Lotus, Milk Golden Sand, Red Dates, Mung Bean, and Rose Paste. Solo boxes are priced at Php 388 each, while the Box of Four, presented in an elegant silk brocade box, is available for Php 2,288. 

As a special treat, the Early Bird Offer provides a generous 30% discount on the Box of Four, reducing the price to Php 1,601.60. This special offer is valid from August 15 to 31, 2024, with pick-up available throughout September 2024. 

Bigger and grander Gateway Art Fair set for September 26 to 29

30 exhibitors, more than 1,000 artworks will be seen at one of the country’s leading art events

One of the most anticipated art and culture events is making a comeback this September!

This year, the Gateway Art Fair, managed by the Gateway Gallery of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), the social arm of Araneta City, is returning bigger and better with 30 participating exhibitors, offering more than 1,000 pieces of art to connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Happening this September 26 to 29 at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City, the Gateway Art Fair aims to highlight the best of Filipino artistry.

“The Gateway Art Fair is now in its third year and it brings together the largest number of artists, art groups, and art galleries under one roof to showcase the best of Filipino visual art. And as we mark this significant milestone, we are proud to invite everyone to come to this art fair to see Filipino talent and excellence in full display,” Diane Romero, JAAF Executive Director said. 

Araneta City empowers lessees to harness digital tools in exclusive seminar

City of Firsts holds learning session on digital marketing for tenants

In this day and age, where more and more people are online and living a large part of their lives on the internet, knowledge of digital marketing tools and techniques is imperative for any entrepreneur aiming to reach out to the right audience. With this in mind, Araneta City held an insightful seminar on digital marketing for its lessees last July 29. 

The City of Firsts invited Rochefel Rivera, Chairperson of the Filipino Online Professional Service Cooperative (FOPSCo) and Head of Business Development of Professional VAs, to discuss with the lessees the various tools that entrepreneurs can use to expand their reach online. From search engine optimization (SEO) to app-based marketing, she gave the attendees relevant tips that would help them stand out in today’s digital marketplace. 

First Ever Modified Eco-Friendly Tourist Rest Area to rise in Bicol Region

From left to right: TIEZA OIC Assistant Chief Operating Officer Jeoffrey Macalalad, Tabaco City Mayor Cielo Krisel Lagman, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Vice Governor Glenda Ong Bongao, and DOT Regional Office V Director Herbie Aguas sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the sustainable Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Tabaco City.

TABACO CITY, Albay—The Department of Tourism (DOT) marked a significant advancement for Bicol's tourism sector with the groundbreaking and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the region's inaugural Tourist Rest Area (TRA), led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Tabaco City Mayor Cielo Krisel Lagman.

This was the first TRA in the Philippines to receive the modifications of the flagship tourist facility being constructed by the DOT, through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) across strategic locations, with features of solar panel roofing, a rainwater harvesting system, among other eco-friendly features.

Kublai Millan’s "Land of Premise" Unveiled at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

Acclaimed artist Kublai Millan’s latest exhibit, Land of Premise, was officially inaugurated at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery on August 1, 2024. This solo exhibit, featuring a compelling collection of 14 paintings, invites guests to explore the untapped potential of Mindanao and envision a future where its promises are fulfilled.

In his remarks, Kublai emphasized that Land of Premise is more than just an artistic showcase; it is a bridge to understanding Mindanao’s rich heritage and future possibilities. “Words cannot build a future, only actions and resources can. Know the premise so we can conceive a fulfillable promise,” he stated.