“After several negotiations with tourism sectors, we have created these packages to accommodate the economic environment in the US. And with other international destinations coming up with their own, we made sure that ours have competitive edge that allows tourists to stretch their dollars,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

The first includes an $899 package in partnership with Philippine Airlines and Rajah Tours, for 2 nights stay in Manila, Boracay, Cebu or Palawan. Departure is from San Francisco or Los Angeles with travel period from August 21 – November 30, 2009. The following hotels, Sofitel Philippine Plaza, EDSA Shangri-la, Crown Plaza, Dusit Hotel, in Manila; Maribago Hotel and Shangri-la Mactan in Cebu; Boracay Regency and Dos Palmas in Palawan, will provide accommodation, some of which will require add-on costs.

For China Airlines and Mango Tours, the package costs $799 for a 3- night stay at Manila Diamond Hotel, with travel period until March 2010.

Two more packages under negotiations are for the West Coast with Asiana Airlines, and for Chicago with Delta Northwest Airlines. Both will be handled by Rajah Tours.

On the promotional aspect of the campaign, Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Tourism Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions shared, “With some of the packages already rolled out, we have drawn up web marketing efforts through email blasts and placements in popular social networking sites. A 30-seconder TV commercial is likewise being aired on the TFC (The Filipino Channel) in our target areas.”

Several studies made on the US travel market revealed that with costs of outbound tours at a down rate, an average of 50% of Americans expressed intent to travel within the US and to other countries, between August 2009 to early next year.

The country has welcomed more than 100 Foreign Buyers from all over the world for the recently concluded Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) Buyer Invitational Program. Dubbed as I Travel, I Explore, the program has included the Dream Trip Program and the MICE Mart as its two major components.

Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC), I Travel, I Explore was among the year’s biggest travel and trade events.

“We are thrilled to continue to open our doors to global guests in the MICE industry and showcase the country as a premier MICE destination. The Department is very confident that buyers, investors, and tourists, will always be enthralled not only with our country’s natural sites, but with our ready facilities for conventions and exhibitions,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

“Our country’s competitiveness in this area of tourism springs from our creativity and resourcefulness. We are capable of organizing and holding uniquely-themed events, at a more reasonable and efficient cost,” Durano stressed.

Among the well-screened international buyers are incentive houses, destination management companies, association executives, meeting planners, and congress and exhibition organizers.

Durano further said, “Some participants are happy to be visiting the Philippines for the first time. Leading buyers from the United Kingdom, Active Consultancy, Mako Lifestyle and Rubymear Group of Companies, all specialists in the business, were among them, to name a few.”

Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, said, “Knowing that buyers are excited to see the business opportunities that can unfold during the trip, DOT marketing representatives overseas and marketing teams here have been committed to provide them with the best possible assistance to ensure a fruitful business exchange.”

”An educational trip to the islands will definitely put the Philippines into the map of M.I.C.E. Market in our core market segments,” Jarque added. He also noted that DOT marketing teams are also continuously active in linking applications between the country and segments from North America, Middle East, India, Asia Pacific, China, Japan, and Korea.

Philippine sellers included airlines, hotels and resorts, Conference and Exhibition Venues, Destination Management Companies, Tour Operators, Meeting and Event Planners, M.I.C.E. Organizers and Suppliers, M.I.C.E. Destination Tourism Councils and Other M.I.C.E. Ancillary Services Suppliers.

The DOTC issued the order to the Caticlan International Airport Development Corp. (CIADC), a private consortium which was granted the 25-year airport upgrade project.

Recent flight incidents in Caticlan prompted the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to prohibit larger aircrafts of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Zest Airways from using Boracay’s closest gateway. At present, the airport is limited to one way landing or take-off for smaller planes.

“With the wind factor and the hill obstructing the airstrip, pilots perform an abrupt maneuver to a steep degree of ascent for larger planes. Passenger safety is our priority in rehabilitating the runway,” revealed Secretary Ace Durano, representing the Department of Tourism (DOT), one of the board members of CAAP.

“The CAAP, concerned government agencies and private sector are consolidating all efforts to complete the runway upgrade. We have been assured that it will be fully operational in September, the start of Boracay’s peak season,” added the tourism chief.

Durano further said that though arrivals in Boracay were largely unaffected by the new stipulation, with flights diverted to Kalibo, and Caticlan airport left open to smaller planes of Southeast Asian Airways (Seair), the runway reopening is vital to the long-term infrastructure development of the airport.

Concerns of rerouted airline companies have also mounted, according to DOT Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr., “Redirected flights to Kalibo involve land transfer costs which are shouldered by the airlines. Likewise, tourists looking to spend a longer time in Boracay end up consuming two hours more on their travel by bus.”

Restructuring of the runway involves contouring of the bordering hill, as an alternative to flattening out the mound which will take four to five months.

“With this unique attraction, we hope to highlight our multi-cultural heritage of as one of the main staples in a tourist’s itinerary,” said Ace Durano, Secretary of Tourism.

Slated to perform in all Tuesdays of July is Sinukwan Kapampangan which will present Pampanga’s folk dances, while Sining Bulakenyo and Lahing Batangan will render Maglalatik, Sayaw sa Bangko, Singkil, La Jota Manileña, and other ethnic and rural dances in all Thursdays of the same month. Wearing sophisticated costumes and elaborate make-up, the members of the groups ease into their different roles effortlessly, amidst a backdrop of dramatic lighting.

“Kultura Filipino establishes Manila as a major cultural stop, as it will be one of the highlights in city tour packages offered by tour operators. We likewise urge interested groups to join us in our campaign to promote and preserve the Filipino artistry,” added Durano.

“As of now the project primarily features songs and dances. Although we are also exploring the possibility of using it as a venue for exhibits in sculpture, painting, photography, printmaking, and cinema among others,” according to Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr., DOT Tourism Planning and Promotions.

Director Elizabeth F. Nelle, DOT Office of Product Research and Development said, “With the country’s different regions tapped to participate in Kultura Filipino, the audience can expect a colorful presentation from a whole spectrum of different traditions and performing arts.”

Holding these exemplary shows within the walls of Intramuros also adds an atmosphere of historic and old world charm, said Nelle.

Performances are held at Barbara’s Restaurant, Intramuros. Packaged at a special introductory rate of P495 per person, the show includes a dinner buffet.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River slips to number 2 on the New 7 Wonders of Nature (N7WN) poll, prompting the Department of Tourism (DOT) to appeal for support from voters. The Philippine entry is vying for the top spot, which is currently occupied by the Amazon River, among other 54 nominees under the category of Forests/National Parks/Nature Reserves.

There are currently 261 nominees from all over the globe, competing in 7 different categories, only 77 of which will remain after voting ends in July 7, 2009. The campaign is at its second of three stages.

The contenders have been classified into 7 groups which are: Landscapes/Ice Formations, Islands, Mountains/Volcanoes, Caves/Rock Formations/Valleys, Forests/National Parks/Nature Reserves, Lakes/Rivers/Waterfalls, and Seascapes.

“It’s time we go beyond voting. Let’s all take an active part in promoting Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River to the whole world,” said Ace Durano, Secretary of Tourism.

“More than a popularity contest, this campaign advocates the protection and preservation of our unique natural wealth,” said Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Tourism Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions.

Voters anywhere in the world can take part in the poll through the internet or via the international telephone voting line, or with a personalized voting certificate.

Renowned as the world’s longest underground river, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park also features a stunning limestone karst mountain landscape. Inside its large chambers are stalactites and stalagmites formations, while at the mouth of its cave thrives a bustling ecosystem which includes monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels.

After the top 77 candidates have been determined, the New7Wonders Panel of Experts, led by Prof. Dr. Federico Mayor, former Director-General of UNESCO, will then take over to select the 21 Finalists.

The New 7 Wonders of Nature is an ongoing campaign sponsored by the New 7 Wonders Foundation based in Switzerland. The same group initiated the New 7 Wonders of the World project in 2007.

Majority of the visitors on the N7WN website has likewise voted for Manila as the venue for the proclamation of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2011. Vote now. http://www.new7wonders.com/c1/

Speaking of Palawan, I have to check some insurance rates. I’m going to Palawan this month, and it’s better to be insured. =)

This is how the Department of Tourism (DOT) aggressively promotes the country in the upcoming International Travel Expo (ITE) in Hong Kong. The theme Romantic Philippines is set to captivate Asian couples, featuring unique getaways and exhilarating thrills.

“The country’s stunning landscapes truly make it a sought-after wedding destination. Couples would choose only the best for life’s most memorable events, and we are certain they would never run out of exciting discoveries in our many islands,” Tourism Secretary Ace Durano shares.

The country’s delegation, led by the DOT, will be joined by renowned and respected industry leaders Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, The Manila Hotel, El Nido Resort, Boracay Grand Vista Resort and Spa, Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa, Le Soleil de Boracay, Hotel Seraph Boracay, Waterfront Hotels and Casino, and Plantation Bay Resort and Spa

Trusted travel operators Shroff International Travel Care, Inc., Castro Travel Solutions Agency, Le Soleil de Boracay, Happy Sun Travel and Tours, and Planet Holiday, as well as leading carriers Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air, will also be represented.

The Philippine booth promises unique performances and exciting activities. Top local acts will render Kundiman, or Filipino love songs; and unique designs by leading designer Renee Salud will be showcased.

Now on its 23rd year, the ITE has chosen the country as a finalist for the ‘New Travel Route’ competition, where finalist countries will be put to popular vote as the most preferred destinations for avid travelers. Joining the Philippines for the list of finalists are Switzerland, Greece, Peru, India, South Korea, Turkey, and Japan, among others.

The Hong Kong market has continued to pose encouraging number in terms of arrivals to the country, for the past three years. A total of 96,296 visitors in 2006; 111,948 in 2007; and 116,653 in 2008 reflect a significant 14% growth rate.

Looking on to brighter and more fruitful years for travel and tourism, especially noting the huge potential of our islands in enticing a growing number of travelers, the Philippines expects to sustain an upward trend for the Hong Kong market in the coming years.

The Open Doors monument in honour of the Philippines has been unveiled at the Rishon Lezion Memorial Park in Israel on June 21, forging stronger ties between the two countries.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, who was Guest of Honour at the event, said, “This monument commemorates the Philippines’ selfless efforts in opening the country for thousands of Jews, where they found a safe haven during a difficult period in their history. It is indeed an honour to remember this strong connection, at a time when the world is faced with a lot uncertainty and challenges.”

The Open Doors marker now sits as a historical landmark recognizing the Filipino people for their ‘courage, hospitality and the determination… to give humanitarian support for the European Jews seeking refuge from the Holocaust in the 1930s,’ according to the Philippine embassy in Israel.

Durano added, “This is a remarkable milestone to further better linkages between the Philippines and Israel. We are one of the first to recognize the State of Israel, and today the warm relations between our countries continue.”

In 1939, fully understanding the crisis the Jews were facing, President Manuel L. Quezon was instrumental in making ten thousand visas earmarked for travel to the Philippines. He declared an open doors policy, making a difference in the lives of thousands of Jews, some of which were in the event to celebrate the remarkable occasion.

Also present in the historical unveiling was Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr., who noted, “The warm hospitality of the Filipino people undoubtedly shed light on one of the Jewish people’s most trying times. This same characteristic has always drawn people from different cultures to Philippines. Aside from the destinations, the Filipinos’ hospitable spirit continues to leave a lasting mark on others.”

Reinforcing President Quezon’s open door policy were provisions for housing in Marikina in 1939, and an allotment for a farm and large settlement area in Mindanao for the Jewish refugees before the outbreak of World War II.

Such episodes were documented in a book Escape to Manila by Frank Ephraim, a Holocaust survivor. Four years ago, this book inspired the creation of the Open Doors monument through the initiative of the late Ambassador to Israel Antonio Modena, who died in Manila in February 2007.

In his book, Ephraim wrote, “The Philippines held out a promise of a safe haven from Nazi oppression, offering survival from mass murder of the Jewish people in Europe.”

The monument, showing modern conceptual doors, was designed by acclaimed Filipino artist Jun Yee. According to Yee, “The rising design of the open doors represents ‘soaring in triumph.’ One cannot imagine a more fitting symbol for this occasion than the Open Doors, dramatically and contemporarily designed.”

Philippine marble tiles from Romblon were used for the monument, along with metal sheets and reinforced concrete for the base.

Jarque mentioned, “The marble tiles coming from the island of Romblon, the heartland of our country, symbolize our country’s part in Israel’s story. The Jewish community in the Philippines and in other parts of the world also supported this initiative, and it is heartening to know that our friendship with the Jewish people have emerged stronger.”

Anyway, do you know a Pleasanton motorcycle accident attorney? My cousin needs one.

Following its aggressive campaign to boost tourism traffic from unconventional source markets, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is pleased to announce the arrival of more and bigger cruise ships from Costa Cruises, Europe’s top cruise company. The luxury liner has scheduled a total of 15 visits to the country this year.

“Cruise ship tourists are a valuable segment of our arrivals as they come from the high-spending, silver markets of Europe and the US. I am pleased to note that beginning October of this year, Costa Cruises will upgrade to a bigger vessel that carries twice the number of passengers on board,” Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said.

“The new ship can carry 1,600 passengers which is a two-fold increase from the 800 passenger-capacity of Costa Allegra. This year, we have also augmented our scheduled ports of call in Manila compared to last year’s record,” cited Jenica Ferrer, Sales and Operations Officer of Costa Cruises in Manila.

The Philippines has been praised by guests for having the warmest arrival reception from among the ship’s destinations. “We make sure that they are treated to our one-of-a-kind Filipino hospitality. Even before the ship has completely docked, we greet guests with spectacular cultural performances amidst the festive atmosphere of various stalls offering handicrafts, delicacies and other home-made products on the wharf. We also give them a glimpse of the country by bringing them to a historical exploration of Corregidor, nature discovery of Tagaytay and Pagsanjan, and heritage tour and shopping in Manila,” shared Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions.

Costa Cruises targets more than 18,000 passenger arrivals in Manila this year, which is almost twice the figure of last year’s record of 10,000 passengers.

Touted as a ‘romantic ship,’ Costa Classica holds an astonishing number of sculpture, original painting, hangings, murals, and crafts. It has ten decks, two swimming pools and 2 theaters, and is built with a tonnage of 52,926 tons, and a length of 723 feet.

Travel Time features the Meier’s Weltreisen, Europe’s largest long-haul travel operator, and their visit to the country for a tourism convention and exposure trip for 265 of their travel agents. Find out what they love about the country as the Department of Tourism together with the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila and Blue Horizons Travel and Tour take them to the Philippines’ top spots. Follow their journey to the country – from the grand welcome at the National Museum, to the farewell beach party at Shangri-la Boracay Resort and Spa, Boracay’s newest gem. Travel Time is the longest-running travel show in the country hosted by Susan Calo-Medina.

Catch this spectacular episode this Saturday, May 23, 2009 on ANC at 9:30 AM, with a replay on Tuesday at 11:30 PM. TFC (The Filipino Channel) subscribers can catch it on Sundays and Mondays in North America, Middle East, and Europe.

The annual Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) set on July 11-17, 2009 is targeting around 500 participants from the United States and Canada.

A joint project of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Trade and Industry, the ACGTDT aims to promote the Philippines’ top tourism spots to second and third generation Filipino-Americans.

First held in 2005, the ACGTDT is a yearly program that involves highest ranking Philippine officials in the US leading the call for Filipino-Americans and their families to visit their motherland.

It’s a homecoming for the first generation and a discovery of roots for the young, according to Tourism Secretary Ace Durano. “We encourage them to come home and bring the younger generation with them to introduce our country’s heritage, history and homegrown charm. And when they go back, we hope their visit encourages them to become tourism ambassadors of their own country,” Durano added.

Another highlight of the program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the President of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and have lunch with her. Also included are; a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal monument, and tours of Corregidor, Villa Escudero, Laguna Loop, Taal, Tagaytay, Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Baguio, La Union, Banaue, Sagada, Laoag, and Vigan.

“We want them to have an encompassing experience of the country. Aside from beaches, we will bring them to our heritage sites, country sides, nature trips, pilgrimages, highlands, tribal villages, culinary tours, and artists’ hometowns,” said Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Tourism Planning and Promotions.

They will also be treated to spectacular cultural performances by Bayanihan the Philippine National Folk Dance Company and Banda Kawayan.

Corazon Jorda-Apo, Head of DOT Team North America further explained that the campaign pushes for the country’s adventure, health and wellness, and entertainment tourism packages which are popular in the US market. “We will also present the country’s viable areas for investments in livelihood, retirement and medical tourism businesses,” mentioned Jorda-Apo.