Traditional Philippine handicrafts and folk dances will take centerstage in the upcoming ASEAN Tourism Fair in Japan.
Secretary Ace Durano of the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that the country would be sending members of the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild and a piña and jusi embroidery artist from Lumban, Laguna, to the ASEAN Travel Fair, which would be held in the Japanese city of Niigata from August 26 to 31, 2009.
The annual travel fair, which is held by the ASEAN Promotion Centre on Trade, Investment and Tourism (ASEAN-Japan Centre), showcases the ASEAN’s unique and rich culture and traditions to the Japanese public.
“The ASEAN Travel Fair 2009 is a great vehicle to foster Philippine-Japan diplomatic and business relations, especially in the field of tourism activities. This would bring a deeper understanding between the two cultures,” Durano added.
The Philippine delegation will be setting up a travel information and demonstration booth in the Isetan Department Store where authentic hand-crafted items would be displayed. Menarda Llames, a native embroidery artist, from Lumban, the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines – would be demonstrating how to make giveaway items such as coasters and glass covers to the audience. Also, the demonstrations would be interactive, as the public would be encouraged to ask, learn and participate in the handicraft demonstrations.
Also, the delegation would host a Philippine night featuring the best of the country’s destinations, culture, and activities as part of the ASEAN Tourism Seminar, according to Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr.
“Other ASEAN countries participating in the Fair are Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. The country’s participation in this important fair signals our strong ties with our neighbouring nations in promoting tourism to and within Asia,” Jarque said.
Dancers from the acclaimed Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild would also be showcasing traditional Filipino folk dances, as they will perform in the ASEAN Night on August 31.
Dir. Benito Bengzon, Jr., DOT Marketing Head for Team Japan said, “Their colourful renditions would give a snapshot of the diversity of Filipino dances, a treat to the Japanese audience.”
Brochures and other informational materials on travel options would be distributed for the duration of the fair. The country being cited recently as among the Top 5 Dive Destinations in Asia, would surely entice Japanese tourists to spend their vacation in the Philippines,” Bengzon added.
I remember when I was in college, we performed some folk dances. But I’m not a good dancer so I volunteered to play piano.
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