TPB’s PHITEX program wins National Tourism Initiative of the Year

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), was recently honored with the National Tourism Initiative of the Year-Philippines award in recognition of its conduct of the 2022 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), the country's largest government-organized travel trade event. The Gov Media Awards, presented by Gov Media Magazine and held in Singapore, recognizes the most outstanding government projects and initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. This year’s entries were evaluated by an elite panel of experts, including leaders from World Bank and ADB.

Philippine Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Tourism Promotions Board COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles during the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2022

"We are one with the TPB in appreciation of this international recognition for PHITEX, which reflects the successful collaboration of government and the private sector under the shared tourism governance envisioned by the Marcos Administration," Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who is also Chairman of the TPB Board said on the award received by the DOT's marketing arm.

“This recognition is an honor for us at the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines and is a triumph that we dedicate to all tourism stakeholders who continually work hard to contribute to the growth of the tourism industry and economy. This will only spur us in our commitment to making the Philippines a tourism powerhouse in Asia,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

Gov Media stated that TPB’s remarkable organization of PHITEX was lauded for its role in promoting responsible tourism and driving growth in the Philippine tourism industry. The projects awarded serve as catalysts for transformative change and have significant implications for the well-being of billions of people living in Asia and beyond.

Since its establishment in 1996, PHITEX has played a vital role in fostering business partnerships and showcasing the diverse array of Philippine tourism destinations. In 2022, PHITEX adopted the theme "Embracing Responsible Tourism" to emphasize the significance of safe, smart, and sustainable travel practices. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, PHITEX successfully hosted over 116 foreign buyers, comprised of 53 physical attendees and 63 virtual participants from 32 countries that actively participated with 206 Philippine sellers composed of 96 physical attendees and 110 virtual participants during the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX).

Said participants represented travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and resorts, MICE operators, and airlines. Key markets such as Korea, Malaysia, and China were well-represented, with 77% of buyers coming from source markets and 39% from opportunity markets.

The fruitful discussions in TRAVEX generated an estimated revenue of Php 190,143,651.00 (US$3.496m) based on the sales lead forms submitted by the Philippine sellers.

TPB has announced that the next PHITEX will be held in September this year in Cebu. This year's event will feature a two-day Face-to-Face Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), PHITEX Educational Program (PEP), and Pre and Post-Event Tours for Buyers, targeting quality buyers and sellers.

11th Regional Travel Fair surpasses pre-pandemic performance, hits over PHP 110M in sales

 The 11th Regional Travel Fair, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, made a triumphant return to full onsite event since the COVID-19 pandemic, generating over PHP 110 million in actual and negotiated sales during its three-day event at the SM Seaside City Cebu from 21-23 July 2023. This surpassed the previous RTF sales figure by 32.97%.

Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines’ 11th Regional Travel Fair hits over P110 million actual and negotiated sales. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles expressed her elation over the resounding success of this year’s RTF, “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming response and enthusiasm from exhibitors and visitors during the Regional Travel Fair. The outstanding sales leads signal a bright future for the tourism industry in the post-pandemic era and reaffirm travelers’ confidence in the safety of their travels.”

Present during the event were TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Tourism Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation (TRCRG) Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Intramuros Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla, Assistant Secretary Rica Bueno, DOT Calabarzon Regional Director Marites Castro, Director Judilyn Quiachon of the Tourism Coordination and Regional Operations, Cebu City Mayor Michael Lopez Rama, TPB Deputy Chief Operations Officer for Marketing and Promotions Atty. Charles Aames Bautista, and TPB Domestic Promotions Department Manager Teresita Landan.

The event was also attended by social media personalities Chuck Aquino and Joe Abad, popularly known as Chuck and Joe, and Marie Field Faith.

Lumad Basakanon's vibrant cultural performance wowed the crowd at the 11th Regional Travel Fair at SM Seaside City Cebu. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

Aerial view of St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church, popularly known as Argao Church in Cebu. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

TPB's Regional Travel Fair in Cebu offers participants an immersive experience of Southern Cebu's culture and culinary offerings. Photo by Marky Ramone Go.

With the theme #VisitCentralVisayas, the annual trade fair provided a platform for over 70 exhibitors nationwide to participate in the event. Industry professionals took the opportunity to share emerging trends and best practices, innovate travel-related business operations, and expand networks through its engaging Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions. Tourism offices from Central Visayas, including the Province of Cebu, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Siquijor, Boho, and Negros Oriental presented their tourism product updates during the B2B session.

The fair also opened its doors to enthusiastic travelers during its two-day Business-to-Consumer (B2C) session held on July 22-23. Among the offerings were discounted tour packages to famous and emerging local destinations, airline tickets, accommodation, delicacies, and pasalubong items.

“We desire and aim to play a major role in shaping the future of tourism by creating a one-stop shop venue for industry collaboration and partnerships,” said Tourism Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation (TRCRG) Shahlimar Hofer Tamano who delivered a keynote speech at the event on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

Meanwhile, TPB members, industry stakeholders, influencers, and media partners were also treated to a post-tour trip to the heritage towns of Argao and Carcar for an immersive experience of southern Cebu’s culture and culinary offerings.

The RTF was made possible with the support of the Department of Tourism Region VII, Provincial Government of Cebu, and City Government of Cebu. The event was also sponsored by partners from the private sector – SM Seaside City, 2GO, Jpark Island, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, Philippine Airlines, NUSTAR, Fili Hotel, CAVA, Bluewater Maribago Mactan, and Marco Polo Cebu.

TPB anticipates an even bigger and better Regional Travel Fair slated in October this year in Ilocos Region.

PAL Makes Flights Fun for Kids with Mickey & Friends themed Junior Jetsetter Kit

 

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is delighted to introduce its latest limited-edition, Disney-themed Junior Jetsetter Kits (JJ Kits) starting July 24, 2023. This special amenity kit features designs inspired by beloved Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, adding a touch of joy to every journey.

The JJ Kit will be exclusively provided to children traveling on PAL's long-haul flights between Manila and a selection of premier destinations including Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Honolulu, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Dubai, Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha.

Designed to captivate young imaginations, the JJ Kit offers a variety of engaging activities to keep kids entertained during long-haul flights. For flights out of Manila, young travelers will find a stackable crayon, an activity book, and a tic-tac-toe game set. Meanwhile, for flights inbound to Manila, kids will receive kits that include a sliding puzzle in addition to the stackable crayon and activity book. Both versions will be conveniently packed in a stylish 'fanny pack' type of bag.

PAL aims to make air travel with kids an unforgettable and exciting experience. PAL Head of Product and Service Management Yosh Yoshida expressed his excitement about the Mickey and Friends edition of the JJ Kit. "We believe our young travelers will enjoy this special treat, as air travel presents an extraordinary adventure for them. Philippine Airlines would like to help spark the joyful spirit of travel in our valued junior jetsetters as they embark on a journey of wonder and excitement.”

Book your flight now by visiting www.philippineairlines.com.

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About Philippine Airlines:

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the Philippines’ flag carrier and only full-service network airline, as well as the first commercial airline in Asia. PAL's fleet of Boeing, Airbus, and De Havilland aircraft operate out of hubs in Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to 32 destinations in the Philippines and 39 destinations in Asia, North America, Australia, and the Middle East. Known for its hallmark heartwarming and gracious Filipino service, PAL also carries air cargo shipments and undertakes charter flights to boost Philippine tourism, support the economy and serve the travel needs of overseas Filipinos. PAL is dedicated to promoting the Philippines’ cultural heritage and supporting initiatives that celebrate Filipino talent and creativity.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates eight years

 It was 2015 when Richmonde Hotel Iloilo opened its doors and pioneered the transformation of the hospitality industry in the Western Visayas region by introducing first-rate facilities and services world-class travelers deserve. Now, as it turns eight years old this month, the hotel is spreading cheer and good fortune with exciting room offers and an epic dinner experience.

Designed for those looking for a luxurious escape to revel in fun relaxation, Richmonde’s Celebrate Eight Room Packages will make any guest feel lucky indeed. For a day of soothing comfort and invigorating activities, book the Rejuvenate Package which is good for two persons and comes with an overnight stay in a Deluxe room with breakfast buffet at The Granary, choice of ventosa, aromatherapy, Moroccan full body, head+back, or head+foot massage service, PhP 1,500 worth of dining credits that may be used for food & beverage orders at any of the hotel’s restaurant outlets, namely The Granary, BizBar, or Zabana Bar, or from Room Service. This package is priced at only PhP 8,888nett.

Celebrate Eight Room Packages

 

Rejuvenate Package is valid for double occupancy and includes Deluxe room accommodations, breakfast buffet, in-room massage service, and PhP 1,500 worth of dining credits, for PhP 8,888 nett. Extra bed with breakfast is at PhP 1,500 nett.

The Rest & Recreation Rates are for two-night stays at double occupancy and start at PhP 8,888 nett (room only) and PhP 9,888 nett (with breakfast buffet).

Level up quality time with family and friends and create meaningful moments with the special Rest & Recreation Rates valid for two-night stays. Room accommodations for two persons go for as low as PhP 8,888 nett or PhP 4,444 nett per night (room only) and PhP 9,888 nett or PhP 4,944 nett per night (room with breakfast buffet).    

All above-mentioned rates include Wi-Fi access and complimentary use of the gym and pool. This special anniversary room offer is available until July 31, 2023, except July 21 & 22.

Panumdúman: 8 Course LaMeza Ilonggo Degustation Dinner

Some of the dishes included in the 8 course tasting menu: (L-R) Inasal Tacos (chicken inasal, Ilonggo inasal BBQ sauce, sinanglag taco shell, pickled vegetables, soy pearls, blistered leeks, calamansi aioli); Uhong (smoked medley of mushrooms, roasted onion puree, adobo XO, powdered kasuy, local cheese, fine parmesan); and Meringue de Sal (monggo paste, batuan jam).  

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has always been known for its tasty and innovative menus that pay homage to Iloilo’s rich culinary heritage. For its 8^th anniversary, Richmonde presents Panumdúman, a unique one-night only gastronomic adventure that aims to capture the nostalgic flavors of our fondest childhood memories in an elevated degustation dinner. This 8 course LaMeza Ilonggo dinner will be served on July 20, 2023 from 6pm to 10pm at The Granary for PhP 4,800 nett per person. Prior reservations required as seats are limited.

As Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates another year in the business, it is also primed and ready to serve its guests even better. According to General Manager Natalie Lim, “We owe our success to all the guests and clients who have supported us throughout the years. In return, I can assure you that we will continue to work hard to provide you with only superb products, excellent services, and most of all, happy, enriching experiences.” 

For inquiries and reservations, call (6333) 328 7888. To book a room, you may also call (63) 917 580 9058 or email stay@richmondeiloilo.com. To reserve a table for Panumdúman, you may also call (63) 917 563 3558.

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Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is the first hotel outside Metro Manila of local real estate giant, Megaworld Corporation. With its strategic location within the modern 72-hectare development of Iloilo Business Park, coupled with its world-class facilities, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo elevated the standards of the hotel industry in Western Visayas when it opened in 2015. Richmonde is among the growing number of homegrown brands under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph and for the latest news on the hotel, follow @RichmondeHotelIloilo on Facebook and Instagram.

4 easy tips to remember to have an unstoppable year - These health tips can help Filipinos live their best life this 2023

 

One in five Filipinos has already booked international trips this 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos are planning to travel two to four times this year.[1] At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is targeting to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, twice the number of visitors in 2022.[2]

This means a lot of people will be going in and out of the country. We can expect more crowds and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of the holidays and school vacations. If you are one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four easy health tips:

Drink vitamins

Taking vitamins regularly can supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle.[3] This is especially true for people going on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements like vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during[4] to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water prevents infections, brings nutrients to cells, and ensures that organs are working optimally. Aside from these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water each day is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood.[5] The amount of water needed per day varies per individual, but for the healthy ones, the recommended amount of water that men should drink daily is 15.5 cups, and 11.5 cups for women.[6]

Drinking enough water before travel is recommended because flying can be dehydrating.[7] Airplanes are kept at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Lower humidity leads to dehydration.[8]

Sleep well

Good sleep leads to improved health, mood, immune system, and brain performance.[9] Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed.[10] Maintain good sleep habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.

Flying to countries with the same time zone or with just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling across the world, it’s important to adjust to the day-night cycle at the destination.[11] Stay up with the locals when the arrival time is during the day and sleep at night.

Get vaccinated

Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunizations through vaccinations are crucial. The flu is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two more people.[12]

Preventive healthcare is still the best protection since people can catch the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot annually since flu vaccines change each year to match the current viruses.

Most of all, you wouldn’t want to miss all the fun you have planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines' (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu[1] .” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you can be unstoppable - whether in having your best summer vacation yet, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing other passions in life - don’t let the flu stop you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to ensure that you’re in the right condition to do so.

“People are excited to make up for all the things that they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are looser and we can enjoy the best holiday destinations, it’s important to not let our guard down. We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so they can be unstoppable and enjoy their trips worry-free,” says Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.

A health service message brought to you by GSK

For further information, please consult your doctor.

For Philippine audience only

Kindly forward all adverse events to GSK Philippines via ph.safety@gsk.com

©2023 GSK group of companies or its licensor

GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, Inc.

23rd Floor, The Finance Center, 26th Street corner 9th avenue

Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, 1634

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^[1] Revenge travel is real: 1 in 5 Filipinos have already booked an international holiday in 2023. (2022, Dec 20). Philstar Life, https://philstarlife.com/living/288666-2022-travel-trends-philippines. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[2] DOT raises 2023 target to 4.8 million visitors from abroad. Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2022, Dec 20). https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1707629/dot-targets-4-8-million-international-visitors-for-2023. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

^[3] The Truth About Supplements: 5 Things You Should Know. (2022, Mar 31). Penn Medicine, https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2020/february/the-truth-about-supplements. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[4] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[5] The importance of hydration. (2017, Sep 28). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH), https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/the-importance-of-hydration/. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

^[6] How Much Water Should You Drink? (2023, May 22). Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

^[7] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

^[8] Why Flying Makes You So Dehydrated. (2018, Dec 14). Center for Family Medicine, https://centerforfamilymedicine.com/general-health/why-flying-makes-you-so-dehydrated. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[9] Good Sleep for Good Health. (2021, Apr). National Institutes of Health, https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[10] What Is Healthy Sleep? (2022, Apr 29). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/what-is-healthy-sleep. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[11] Jet Lag and Sleep. (2022, Nov 3). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/travel-and-sleep/jet-lag. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

^[12] Flu (Influenza). (2022, Oct 11). Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

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