PHITEX Shines Spotlight on IoT in 2023 Cebu Edition

The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2023, the country's premier government-organized travel trade event organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, makes a triumphant return to Cebu City after 16 years. The event aims to present the Philippines' finest tourism attractions, establishments, services, and products to a global audience.

The theme for this year's edition is centered on sustainability in the age of the Internet of Things (IoT), highlighting the country's digitalization and sustainability efforts to meet global demands. Moreover, PHITEX functions as an innovative knowledge-sharing platform. Through its PEPTalk module, PHITEX provides a valuable educational experience to local stakeholders and academia members in the field of tourism, offering insights into the latest advancements in IoT, data privacy, and circular economies.

“We are standing at the crossroads of a digital revolution, where the Internet of Things or IoT, promises to reshape our world. As we navigate this transformative wave, the tourism industry must stand ready. Our task is not only to embrace this digital evolution but also to champion the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernization. This delicate balance is an expertise we, as custodians of our vibrant cultural heritage, must skillfully achieve,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

PHITEX will commence on September 19 with the PHITEX Educational Program (PEP) Talk. This learning opportunity will feature discussions anchored on this year's theme, "Tourism Sustainability in the Era of IoT." Distinguished speakers, including Maria Raisa Ysaac-Orbon, Chief Marketing Officer of Packetworx Inc.; Maricel Gatchalian-Badilla, PhD., Associate Professor of UP Asian Institute of Tourism; Atty. Francis Euston R. Acero, Vice President and Data Privacy Officer of Meralco; Barry Lim, Senior Director, Public Sector & Government Practice, Frost and Sullivan-Singapore; Geoff Andres, Property President of the City of Dreams Manila; and Dawn Mendoza, Program Manager of the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride, are set to share their insights on tourism trends and sustainability practices in the digital age.

This year's edition will bring together 100 buyers from 18 countries and 168 Philippine seller delegates representing 122 companies for business-to-business interactions. TPB collaborated with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and private sector representatives to carefully screen the buyers, ensuring their quality and legitimacy.

The opening ceremonies of this two-day Travel Exchange will take place on September 20 at the Fili-Nustar Hotel. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco to grace the event alongside Nograles and other DOT officials.

PHITEX is a significant annual marketing event that not only facilitates meetings between qualified international buyers and Philippine sellers through tabletop business appointments. It also offers participants a chance to experience the beauty of Philippine tourism destinations through pre and post familiarization tours in Manila-Rizal, Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon-Davao, Coron, Palawan, Boracay-Romblon, Cebu-Dumaguete, Pampanga-La Union, and Ilocos Norte and Sur.

For more information about PHITEX, visit https://www.phitex.ph/

TPB Goes Green Through Environmental Initiatives in the La Mesa Nature Reserve and Sierra Madre Mountain Range

 The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), held its corporate social responsibility activity last August 23-24, 2023 as the agency continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable tourism. The CSR program was done in partnership with Haribon Foundation, which provided proper awareness training, educational sessions, and hands-on environmental activities for the participants in the La Mesa Nature Reserve and the Southern Sierra Madre Mountains. Content creator Cha Ocampo also joined TPB’s CSR program, as one of the leading advocates for environmental awareness in the Philippines.

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines recently conducted a CSR program in partnership with the Haribon Foundation. The TPB employees participated in proper awareness training, educational sessions, and hands-on environmental activities in the La Mesa Nature Reserve and the Southern Sierra Madre Mountains. 

The program kicked off in the La Mesa Nature Reserve where participants went through a guided tour of the Petron Trail. This immersive activity served as an opportunity for them to learn more about the Philippine native trees and understand the species’ importance in sustaining biodiversity. 

TPB also participated in a community native nursery activity in Tanay, Rizal to study how seedlings are correctly prepared for planting. Facilitators and community partners guided the TPB participants to increase their knowledge of forest restoration. 

Environmental advocate and content creator Cha Ocampo shared that the more people know about nature, the more they are able to understand how to conserve it. “As we were educated during the CSR program, we learned that native trees help recover and, at the same time, expand forest habitats for native species of plants and animals. They also protect watershed and freshwater resources to support the livelihood of local people. All of these new learnings are crucial information for forest conservation,” she said. 

Apart from investing in environmental education, TPB also joined the Forest for Life Movement’s Adopt-A-Seedling Program on August 24, 2023. Through this program, TPB was able to plant 1,250 native seedlings in the Southern Sierra Madre Mountain Range located in Brgy. San Andres, Tanay, Rizal. The program also included community training and nursery establishment, livelihood incentives, site preparation, and maintenance and monitoring of the seedlings for three years.

Guided by the facilitators and community partners, TPB participated in a community native nursery activity in Tanay, Rizal to study how seedlings are correctly prepared for planting.

TPB’s CSR program included community training and nursery establishment, livelihood incentives, site preparation, maintenance and monitoring of the seedlings for three years.

TPB participants and Haribon Foundation facilitators doing a tree planting activity.

These CSR activities are crucial to preserving the longest mountain range in the Philippines: the Sierra Madre. The Sierra Madre Mountain Range is not only a green tourism destination but also a water source and a barrier against strong storms for multiple cities. Thus, learning about native trees and planting native seedlings in the Sierra Madre Mountain Range can help preserve its beauty for future generations and also protect the lives of various Filipinos.

“These CSR programs are aligned with the Tourism Promotions Board’s goal of making the Philippines a sustainable and uniquely diverse travel destination. It is important for our employees to immerse themselves into these conservation activities. TPB recognizes that the Sierra Madre Mountain Range plays a vital role in the local tourism industry and the everyday lives of Filipinos. Thus, we wanted to protect the country’s longest mountain range by educating ourselves on conservation practices and planting native trees on the Sierra Madre,” said TPB’s Chief Operating Officer Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 

The native tree trek, community native nursery activity, and exclusive tree planting project are some of the CSR programs that TPB has engaged in since 2015. In fact, TPB already conducted 26 activities from Luzon to Mindanao for this year’s CSR program. TPB will continue to take part in environmental and community-based initiatives, in commitment to its goal of supporting green and sustainable tourism. 

Roam like a local in Taiwan with Globe’s affordable and convenient GoRoam offer

Planning to enjoy visa-free travel to Taiwan? Savor that mouthwatering xiao long bao, stroll through vibrant night markets, and explore its beautiful ancient temples while keeping your loved ones up to date with Globe's latest roaming offer, GoRoam Taiwan.

As a leader in transforming mobile roaming services, Globe infuses convenience and affordability into wanderlust-driven adventures. The expanded GoRoam offering is the perfect digital companion to your Taiwan escapades, offering competitively priced data packages nearly at par with local SIM rates.

You can avail of the Taiwan-exclusive GoRoam package for just PHP550, which comes with 2.4GB of data valid for 30 days. No need to swap SIMs – keep your home contact number and let your Taiwan story unfold seamlessly.

"We've been listening, we understand the traveler’s desire for unhampered connection at rates close to what they’d find in the country they are visiting," said Coco Domingo, Vice President of Postpaid and International Business at Globe. "Our vision is to redefine roaming by putting customer convenience at the forefront. GoRoam Taiwan is another exciting chapter in our journey."But the globe-trotting does not stop at Taiwan. GoRoam has got you covered in other popular Asian destinations. Get GoRoam Thailand with 15GB of data at PHP500, usable for 8 days when you go to Thailand. If you want to explore Hong Kong, stay connected with GoRoam Hong Kong’s 3GB of data for PHP600, good for 5 days. Access the GlobeOne app to register to these offers at never-before-seen roaming rates.

"We're changing the game. We’re making roaming more affordable and worry-free for our customers. With GoRoam, our customers can fully immerse themselves in their travels without sacrificing their need for connection," added Domingo.

Ready to roam like a local? Channel your inner explorer with GoRoam. Register via the GlobeOne app and let your adventure take flight!

● Postpaid subscribers can pre-register a day before their trip via GlobeOne. Once abroad, simply turn on data roaming and mobile data on your phone settings to activate the offer.

● Prepaid customers can register while abroad, also via GlobeOne. Once registered, begin surfing simply by turning on mobile data and data roaming, and set network connection to 3G. Then restart your device. Once GoRoam is active, set your network connection to LTE or 5G for the best possible data roaming experience.

To enjoy seamless data browsing while abroad, ensure your device’s APN is set to internet.globe.com.ph. Track your GoRoam data usage via the GlobeOne app.

To learn more about Globe Roaming, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/roaming.html .

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.