Philippines
Lapu-Lapu City launches 100 PHP environmental fee; 80k PHP collected on first day.
Latest monthly intl arrivals
506,000
Mar 2024
Recovery vs 2019
71%
Mar 2019: 714,309
YTD Intl Arrivals
1,662,771
Up to Mar 2024
Percent of 2024 Target
22%
of 7.7M target
Source: Intl arrivals - Department of Tourism. Page last updated: 4 May 2024.
Latest Travel Industry News
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3-May-2024 🛬 inboundParts of the ruins of a sunken church and foundations of old structures from the old town in Nueva Ecija province have re-emerged at a dam that has been dried-up by the drought, attracting tourists to the islandSource: reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/parched-philippine-dam-reveals-centuries-old-town-luring-tourists-2024-05-03/
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3-May-2024 🛬 inboundCavite Office of the Provincial Tourism Officer reported that Tagaytay City welcomed 6.5 million same-day visitors and 268,000 overnight visitors in Q4 2023, the most visited local government unit in Cavite province. It is followed by Silang, Dasmariñas City, Kawit, Trece Martires City, and NaicSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1936826/tagaytay-is-most-visited-tourist-spot-in-cavite-in-q4-2023
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundCagayan de Oro Mayor declared a state of emergency on 1 May to prevent a water crisis. The declaration came after the Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Incorporated (COBI) instructed a subcontractor, Rio Verde Water Consortium Inc., to discontinue the supply of treated water to the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) after the two companies failed to reach a settlement agreement over a disputed 479 million PHP debtSource: rappler.com/nation/mindanao/cagayan-de-oro-state-emergency-water-firm-decides-cut-off-supply/
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundDP World and Asian Terminals Inc. have completed the $25 million USD new Batangas Passenger Terminal, an upgrade from the former terminal which will double the capacity to up to eight million passengers annuallySource: ttgasia.com/2024/05/02/upgraded-batangas-passenger-terminal-opens/
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundManila Mayor announced that the suspension of in-person classes in all public schools in Manila will continue on 2-3 May due to the extreme heat index forecastSource: straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-keeps-schools-shut-as-heat-shows-no-signs-of-abating
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundA Social Weather Stations (SWS) Survey has shown that 14.2% of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger in Q1 2024, with 12.2% experiencing “moderate hunger” and 2% experiencing “severe hunger”, the highest hunger rate since May 2021Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1935965/1-in-10-filipinos-families-went-hungry-in-first-quarter-highest-since-may-2021
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundLapu-Lapu City Councillor reported that the city government collected over 80,000 PHP during the first day of the implementation of the 100 PHP environmental fee, including 34,700 PHP collected from the Hilton Port, 4,160 PHP from the Angasil Port, 30,880 PHP from the Maribago Coastway, and 10,780 PHP from the Marigondon Coastway. The fee is collected from local and foreign tourists engaging in water sports and recreational activities like island hopping, scuba diving, free diving, banana boat riding, jet skiing, sea-walking, parasailing, and kayaking, among others. Swimming and snorkelling are among the activities exempted from the fee. The environmental fee will be allocated for different projects, including the installation and maintenance of tourists rest areas in the different ports, comfort rooms, wash rooms, and large trash bins for boatmen to dispose of guests’ garbage. The fee will also be allocated for the garbage trucks assigned in ports for daily collectionSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/571186/environmental-fees-lapu-lapu-collected-p80000-on-may-1
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundBohol Governor announced that Balicasag Island and Alona Beach on Panglao Island will undergo environmental rehabilitation, following government inspections. The Bohol Provincial Government and the Panglao Municipal Government have jointly-formed the “Task Force Alona”. The beach’s rehabilitation would include slope protection or improvement of seawalls, sand erosion prevention, and tree preservation along the coastline in Barangay Tawala. The project is funded by DOT’s Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) and is expected to cost at least 100 million PHP. Dive and island-hopping boats will no longer be allowed stay in waters near Alona Beach starting from 1 May. Balicasag Island is also seeing several issues, including the need for proper toilets and potable water. The government plans to build a common area for residents to sell food, ornaments, and rent out snorkelling equipment, instead of makeshift stalls. The Bohol Governor also asked residents to send a request for the construction of a desalination plant for 260 households to solve the issue of potable waterSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1935884/2-top-tourism-sites-in-bohol-up-for-rehab
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2-May-2024 🌏 outboundKlook reported a 302% YoY growth in gross sales for Filipinos travelling to Hong Kong in Q1 2024. Klook is launching summer exclusive products for the Philippine market, including for Hong Kong Disneyland, rickshaw sightseeing bus, and free Adidas vouchers for select Hong Kong attractionsSource: philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2024/05/02/2352079/hong-kong-sees-rise-filipino-tourists-remains-top-destination
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundThe Leyte Provincial Government launched the “Great Leyte Homecoming” campaign, calling on migrants and overseas Filipino workers overseas to help invite international travellers to visit LeyteSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223915
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2-May-2024 🛬 inboundHotel101 Global, a subsidiary of real estate company DoubleDragon, plans to list on the Nasdaq stock exchange in New York in H2, making it the first Philippine brand to list in the US. The firm is merging with Hong Kong-based special purpose acquisition firm JVSPAC Acquisition Corp for the listingSource: channelnewsasia.com/business/hotel101-singapore-hq-nasdaq-first-philippines-brand-listing-expansion-4308476
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundThe Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) forecasts inflation to settle between 3.5%-4.3% in Apr 2024, higher than the 2024 target range of 2%-4%Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/05/01/april-inflation-likely-at-3-5-4-3-bsp-forecast-2/
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundLocal government units (LGUs) of Cauayan city in Isabela and Santa municipality in Ilocos Sur have decided to enact a four-day work week due to extreme heat. The regulation does not apply to frontline service workers such as emergency response, traffic, market, and health servicesSource: philstar.com/nation/2024/05/01/2351735/northern-luzon-areas-adopt-4-day-work-week-due-heat
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundChief of Staff of the Tourism Secretary, Mae Elaine T. Bathan, has resigned from her position as Undersecretary for Legal and Special Concerns, a month after receiving criticisms online regarding her halting an official meeting to respond to a friend’s messages. Officially, she “did not state any reason for her resignation”Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/05/01/dot-usec-in-chat-with-bestie-resigns-2/
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundA pump boat operator revealed that around four of their bookings from Lapu-Lapu City were transferred to Cordova town upon guests’ requests on 1 May, the first day of Lapu-Lapu City implementing its 100 PHP environmental fee. He added that 16 Japanese tourists, who had already arrived at the Hilton Port in Barangay Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, decided not to go through with the island hopping activity and chose to transfer to CordovaSource: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/571118/tourists-transfer-to-cordova-as-lapu-lapu-city-imposes-environmental-fee
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1-May-2024 👨✈️ aviationPilot training school CAE Philippines held its 10th graduation ceremony at the Clark Marriott Hotel on 27 Apr, celebrating the graduation of 101 pilotsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/05/01/cdc-chief-tells-aviators-to-move-up-higher-at-caes-10th-graduation/
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundThe Albay Provincial Government is including faith tourism in the 2024 edition of the Magayon Festival, featuring events where visitors will be “given avenues to be in touch more with our spirituality and religion”Source: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223834
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager said that the Philippines is expected to welcome 300,000 cruise ship arrivals in 2024, with 44,000 already recorded in Q1. PPA is working on expediting the construction of dedicated terminals to facilitate the entry of cruise travellers. PPA aims to finish and open the cruise terminal in Siargao in Q3. Dedicated terminals are also expected to be established in Coron, as well as Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur in Luzon; Aklan in Visayas; and Camiguin in MindanaoSource: philstar.com/business/2024/05/01/2351600/government-readies-surge-cruise-tourism
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1-May-2024 🛬 inboundPresident of the Philippine Tour Operators Association said that the Philippines aims to shift its strategy to position the Philippines as an “emerging medical and wellness destination in Asia, expanding beyond its traditional recreational tourism offerings like beaches and diving spots”. He added that a series of strategic measures have been implemented to increase the country’s attractiveness to visitors from the Middle East, including promoting halal establishments and offering a variety of halal dining optionsSource: arabnews.com/node/2502676/amp
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30-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines President said that the airline is “not seeing a slowdown in domestic travel”, noting that the airfares are still “quite competitive, unless it’s a last-minute booking”. He added that the perceived higher costs are partly attributed to inflation, explaining that the base fare is “relatively the same as in 2019”Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/30/pal-base-fares-remain-at-2019-levels-says-exec/
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30-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific has launched its “Fly to Happy, Fly to the Philippines with Cebu Pacific” campaign, offering limited-time discounted airfares to attract foreign travellers to visit the Philippines and choose Cebu Pacific as their airline of choice. The airline identified Australia as a “promising market”, noting that it carried over 100,000 inbound passengers from Melbourne and Sydney to Manila in 2023 aloneSource: ttgasia.com/2024/04/30/cebu-pacific-rolls-out-record-low-fares-with-new-campaign/
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30-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Philippines aims to transfer its international operations from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to Terminal 1 by Jul to boost operational efficiency, with talks still underway with the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) on the exact timeline. The airline’s spokesperson believes that the transfer would help with on-time performance, fuel efficiency, and optimisation of taxi ways. AirAsia Philippines also aims to expand its hub at Kalibo and Clark airports. The airline is now hiring at least 20 pilots to answer to the rising demand for air travelSource: news.abs-cbn.com/regions/2024/4/11/visiting-puerto-princesa-underground-river-2312
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30-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines said that the US Department of Transportation’s new regulation of requiring airlines to provide immediate automatic cash refunds for passengers will affect the airline’s flights to the US. The new regulation requires instant refunds for passengers in case of flight cancellations, significant changes to flight schedule, significant delays in returning checked bags, or failure to provide the extra services passengers have purchased. Philippine Airlines President noted that the airline just need to “be more disciplined in terms of scheduling flights [and] scheduled maintenance programs”Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/30/pal-base-fares-remain-at-2019-levels-says-exec/
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30-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundIlocos Norte to hold its annual symphony of lights show at the Ilocos Norte Capitol complex from 4 May-2 JunSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223767
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29-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that an all-time-high temperature of 38.8°C was recorded in Metro Manila on 27 Apr, surpassing the previous record of 38.6°C in 1915 and 2021Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1934627/metro-manila-hits-hottest-day-on-record-at-38-8oc
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29-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Mindanao Tourism Expo (MTEx) was held from 26-28 Apr, promoting tourism spots, “pasalubong” products, and tour packages of the six regions of Mindanao. The Tourism Secretary stated that Mindanao is now peaceful and ready to welcome tourists, adding that DOT has invited “dignitaries, members of the embassies that have existing travel advisories against the Philippines and Mindanao so that they can see for themselves that their advisories are outdated and that it is time to lift and revise those”Source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/570562/dot-wants-more-tourists-to-discover-mindanao
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29-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundVice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance participated in the blessing and turnover ceremony of a new tourism plaza in Baroy, Lanao del Norte, on 25 Apr. The plaza is expected to be a venue to showcase the locality’s tourism and economy, as well as be a central hub for community activities such as cultural festivals, local government events, and everyday gatheringsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/29/go-joins-blessing-turnover-of-new-tourism-plaza-in-lanao-del-norte/
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29-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundAyala Land and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (MOHG) have partnered to open a new Mandarin Oriental property in 2026, located in Ayala Triangle Gardens at the corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati AvenueSource: ttgasia.com/2024/04/29/new-mandarin-oriental-to-open-in-philippines-makati-city-in-2026/
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29-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Department of Education (DepEd) announced the suspension of in-person classes in all public schools on 29-30 Apr due to the high heat indexes and upcoming transport strike by jeepney groups from 29 Apr-1 May to protest the government’s public utility vehicles modernisation programmeSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1934644/in-person-classes-in-public-schools-suspended-over-heat-transpo-strike
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29-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) announced that two out of the six cooling towers at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3 have stopped working. It added that repairs are ongoing and evaporative fans have been placed in critical areasSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1934643/sweaty-at-naia-cooling-system-under-repair
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29-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Philippines is seeing a load factor of 94% as of Apr, with 80% of its passengers consisting of domestic travellers, whilst the remaining 20% were international travellers. Its average monthly on-time performance stands at 85%. The airline hopes to launch direct flights to Boracay in efforts to help decongest Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International AirportSource: newsroom.airasia.com/news/2024/4/29/airasia-philippines-eyes-more-direct-flights-to-boracay-to-decongest-manila#gsc.tab=0
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28-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundA state weather forecaster expects the Philippines to see hotter temperatures until the second week of MaySource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1934580/philippines-to-endure-extreme-heat-until-mid-may
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28-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA), One Klik Events Management Services, and the Malay Aklan local government organised the Boracay Business Forum on 19 Apr, which saw the participation of various ambassadors to the Philippines, as well as airline stakeholders. The ambassadors mentioned the potential of halal offerings, as well as the MICE segment in BoracaySource: manilatimes.net/2024/04/28/public-square/diplomats-gather-for-gtba-led-business-forum-in-boracay/1943596
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28-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Tourism Attaché in New York revealed that whilst the US was the second biggest source market to the Philippines after South Korea, its contribution in terms of tourism receipts was higher at 17.74 billion PHP, compared to South Korea’s 16.41 billion PHP. He said that DOT targets around one million visitors from the US in 2024, around 15% higher compared to 2023. He added that 55.71% of visitors from the US were former Filipinos, whilst 44% were mainstream Americans. Top destinations for American visitors include Boracay, Palawan, and SiargaoSource: gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/905043/philippines-eyes-a-million-american-tourist-arrivals-in-2024-dot/story/
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27-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Association of Tourism Officers (ATO) in National Capital Region (NCR) participated at the 12th Macao International Travel Expo on 25 Apr, promoting tourism spots and attractions in Metro ManilaSource: mb.com.ph/2024/4/26/article-2221
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) summoned six generation companies (gencos) to explain recent power outages, amid the issuances of red and yellow alerts in Luzon and Visayas in the past two weeks. ERC said the investigation will “determine whether show cause orders need to be issued to the relevant stakeholders, in view of possible violations of outage allowances” and noted that preliminary findings of the investigations is expected by the first week of MaySource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1933826/explain-outages-6-power-firms-told
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) forecasts Metro Manila and 31 other areas to experience heat indexes within the “danger” category of 42°C-51°C on 26 Apr. Pasay City is expected to see a heat index of 43°C whilst Quezon City’s is expected to reach 42°CSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1933913/metro-manila-31-other-areas-to-have-dangerous-heat-index-on-friday
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundMegaworld Corp. to build the 1.2 billion PHP Mactan World Museum inside its Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. The museum will feature a collection of historic pieces curated by the President of the Alliance of Greater Manila Museums, Inc. The museum is also expected to host other activities relating to Filipino-Spanish roots, traditions, and culture, such as a seasonal culinary bazaar, a guitar-making and retail area, as well as a self-operated Filipino-themed photo studioSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/26/megaworld-to-spend-p1-2b-on-cebu-museum/
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippines participated in Asia Dive Expo (ADEX), which was held in Singapore. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) estimates that the Philippines generated 197,219,062.09 PHP in combined negotiated sales leads and actual bookings, +300% from negotiated sales leads in 2023. The Philippines was also named the Sustainable Dive Destination of the Year. The Philippine delegation at the event includes a total of 16 exhibitors from the dive industrySource: ttrweekly.com/site/2024/04/philippines-named-sustainable-dive-destination-2024/
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Presidential Communications Office (PCO), citing data from the DOT, reported that the Philippines welcomed 2,010,522 international arrivals from 1 Jan-24 Apr, +15.11% YoY, comprising 1,894,076 foreign tourists (94.21% share) and 116,446 overseas Filipinos (5.79%). South Korea was the top source market with 546,726 visitors (27.19% share), followed by the US with 546,726 (15.71%), and China with 130,574 (6.49%). Tourism receipts reached 157.62 billion PHP in Q1 2024Source: english.news.cn/20240426/1d17c0e0a8fc4574a050a00a55040a43/c.html
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26-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPresident of the Hotel Sales and Management Association (HSMA) believes that there will be “no shortage in hotel room inventory as there are properties opening this year and the next five years ahead”, in response to Leechiu Property Consultants prediction that the Philippines will face a hotel room shortage. She acknowledged the delay in several openings of new properties during the pandemic but noted that investors are gaining confidence to go forward with hotel development in the Philippines. However, in terms of the rise in average daily rates in line with hotel room shortage, she noted that “price increase is inevitable, especially because there are costs also that are rising”. HSMA will hold its 10th Virtus Award on 11 Oct at the Grand Hyatt Manila, which recognises achievements in hotel sales and marketingSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/26/stakeholders-doubt-hotel-shortage-but-hike-in-room-rates-inevitable/
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26-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Department of Transportation, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, DOT Central Luzon, Clark Development Corporation, Premier Central Inc., Plaza Premium Lounge CRK Inc., and SM Supermalls signed an MoU to establish a city check-in facility in SM City Clark for passengers of the Clark International AirportSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1933971/check-in-facility-to-serve-clark-airport-passengers
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26-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines announced that the Tacloban Airport will operate with shortened hours of 6am-6pm from 2 May-2 Aug due to scheduled runway maintenance repairs. The shortened operating hours will impact 12 flights to/from Manila daily operated by three airlinesSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1934046/fwd-shortened-operational-hours-in-tacloban-airport-from-may-august-due-to-maintenance-repairs
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26-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific signed a three-year agreement with The Vanguard Academy to provide work immersion opportunities to senior high school students from the academy, including those with special abilitiesSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223528
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25-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) expressed “profound concern” over government officials’ questioning of the growing number Chinese students in Cagayan province and the possible risks to national security amid growing tension between Manila and Beijing in the West Philippine Sea. FFCCCII President stated that the statements are “unfair” and “contradict our nation’s efforts to attract Chinese tourists and investors thus jeopardizing our international reputation as a premier destination for tourism and investment, especially in the flourishing market of education tourism across Asia”. He added that FFCCII “unequivocally denounce the unjust criticism directed toward Chinese students who have come to the Philippines to enhance their English proficiency”Source: globalnation.inquirer.net/233292/chinese-filipino-trade-group-says-chinese-students-here-to-boost-english-proficiency
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25-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPaywatch President reported that the Shangri-La group is among the first adopters of the earned wage access (EWA), a policy which lets employees withdraw the salary that have already been earned in a month but haven’t been paid yet. The group is also the first hotel chain in the Philippines to offer EWA to its employees through PaywatchSource: rappler.com/newsbreak/inside-track/pay-day-every-day-shangri-la-group-bpo-secret-happy-employees/
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25-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) gave the Philippines a readiness score of 56 out of 100 in its “Smart Tourism Ecosystem Development Readiness in Southeast Asia” report, ranking fourth in ASEAN. The Philippines received a score of 57 under enabling environment and 55 in terms of technological readinessSource: bworldonline.com/top-stories/2024/04/25/590695/philippines-lags-southeast-asian-neighbors-in-smart-tourism-index/
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT is pushing for the inclusion of Bulacan towns and cities offering Kalutong Bulakenyo dishes in the UNESCO City of Gastronomy listSource: pia.gov.ph/features/2024/04/24/dot-pushes-inclusion-of-bulacan-towns-cities-in-unesco-city-of-gastronomy
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Siete Pecados Marine Park in Northern Palawan, off the coast of Coron Island, has been awarded the silver-level Blue Park Award by the Seattle-based Marine Conservation Institute, becoming the third park in the Philippines to receive the award for exceptional marine biodiversity conservationSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/24/marine-park-off-coron-wins-global-conservation-award/
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Cruise Travel Tourism and Maritime Careers Convention 2024 to be held on 11-12 Jun at the SMX Mall of Asia-ManilaSource: manilatimes.net/2024/04/24/business/maritime/looking-ahead-to-a-cruise/1942952
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Manila City Public Information Office announced the suspension of in-person classes in all levels of public and private schools from 24-26 Apr due to “the forecasted danger heat index level of 44°C according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office”Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1933142/fwd-manila-suspends-on-site-classes-until-friday-april-26-due-to-dangerous-heat
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines paid a courtesy call on the Tourism Secretary, highlighting the two countries’ joint tourism promotion and people-to-people exchanges, as well as expressed his desire for the two countries to work closely in strengthening bilateral partnership in various sectorsSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223322
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Catanduanes Provincial Tourism Office reported that the province welcomed 35,363 tourists in Jan-Mar, +37.8% YoY, generating 39.9 million PHP in domestic tourism receipts and 11.5 million PHP in foreign tourism receipts. There were 43,142 jobs generated, including tour guides, transportation personnel, porters, van operators, waiters, housekeepers, vendors, and boat operators. The province also welcomed 103,396 day-visitors, up from 45,922 in 2023Source: pna.gov.ph/articles/1223336
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24-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Transportation Secretary announced that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is partnering with industry stakeholders for a nature-based carbon sink project, of which part of it includes the promotion of biofuels or sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). He made the remarks during the 3rd International Civil Aviation Organization-European Union Aviation Safety Agency (ICAO-EASA) Forum on Civil Aviation in Southeast Asia. He added that DOTr has partnered with “a top local university” for the local carbon sink projects that would become the source of local airlines’ emission offsetting requirementsSource: portcalls.com/ph-promotes-use-of-biofuels-in-aviation/
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24-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Boracay MICE Alliance (BMA) held its inaugural Networking and Business Exchange in ManilaSource: ttgmice.com/2024/04/24/boracay-mice-alliance-hosts-inaugural-networking-event-in-manila/
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPhilippines and Qatar has signed an MoU to strengthen bilateral growth and partnership in tourism and business events, including through encouraging tourism investments, promoting fam trips for media and tourism experts, and upskilling operators, employees, and specialistsSource: salaamgateway.com/story/philippines-qatar-ink-agreement-to-strengthen-tourism-ties
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Western Visayas (RDRRMC-6) elevated its alert status to blue – meaning heightened coordination of line agencies in sending relief goods and water to affected areas – due to the effects of El Niño. RDRRMC-6 Chair reported that the total damage caused by the drought in Western Visayas has reached 770 million PHPSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1932693/western-visayas-on-blue-alert-due-to-drought
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has placed the Luzon grid under red and yellow alert for 23 Apr. The red alert means “the power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement”, whilst the yellow alert means “the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement”. Luzon currently has an available capacity of 12,832 megawatts, whilst peak demand is at 12,671 megawattsSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1932827/luzon-grid-under-red-yellow-alert
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundA new sea route connecting Del Carmen town in Siargao and Cagdianao town in Dinagat has been opened on 22 Apr, served by the M/V French 777 of Nier Shipping Lines with a carrying capacity of 120 passengers, including motorcycles. Dinagat Governor believes that the opening of the new route is an initiative to boost tourism in the province through collaboration with Del Carmen in Siargao. DOT-Caraga Director said the new route symbolises the birth of a “new tourism circuit” that can capitalise on Siargao’s strength and accessibility to boost tourism in DinagatSource: rappler.com/nation/mindanao/new-siargao-dinagat-sea-route-promises-bolster-caraga-tourism-economy/
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPresident Marcos Jr. announced that his administration has restored old heritage houses within the Malacañang compound to be used as guest houses for visiting dignitariesSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/23/malacanang-restores-heritage-homes-into-tourism-assets-for-visiting-dignitaries/
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23-Apr-2024 🌏 outboundThe Manila Office of the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) and the Korean Cultural Centre in Taguig hosted the “K-Beauty Hang Out” event at mall SM Aura in Manila on 12 Apr. Tourism flyers and brochures were available at the event, as well as information on a Korean wellness tourSource: korea.net/NewsFocus/HonoraryReporters/view
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23-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines to resume Clark-Basco flights from 2 Jul, with 4X weekly flightsSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1932837/pal-to-resume-clark-basco-batanes-flights-by-july-2
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23-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundMilieu Insight survey has shown that Filipinos consider safety of travel destination the most when travelling domestically (73%), followed by cost of the whole vacation (66%), variety of places to eat at (43%), and weather of the destination (41%), and travel spots/sceneries (39%). They are least concerned about whether there is good phone signal at the destination (20%)Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/23/among-asians-pinoys-most-concerned-about-cost-safety-of-domestic-vacation/
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22-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT reported that the Philippines welcomed 1.88 million international arrivals from 1 Jan-15 Apr, -34.5% vs Jan-Apr 2019 but +19% vs Jan-13 Apr 2023. The total comprises 1.77 foreigners and 107,606 overseas Filipinos. South Korea was the top source market with 514,146 arrivals (27.4% market share, +31.5% YoY), followed by the US with 295,281 visitors (15.74% market share, +4% YoY); China with 122,812 visitors (6.55% market share, +138.22% YoY); Canada with 75,554 visitors (-3.3% YoY); Taiwan with 67,526 (+33% YoY); the UK with 54,430 (+9.27% YoY); Singapore with 42,717 (+5.8% YoY); and Germany with 32,629 (+15.24% YoY)Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/22/chinese-japanese-tourist-numbers-help-lift-phl-visitor-arrivals-in-4-mos/
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22-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported a peak heat index of 46°C in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, with another 26 areas/locations also experiencing heat indexes within the “danger” category of 42°C-51°CSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1932385/46oc-heat-index-hounds-puerto-princesa-city
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22-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationChair of the Bangsamoro Board of Investments (BBOI) announced that Bangsamoro Airways, operated by the Maguindanao del Norte-based Federal Airways Inc., will commence 3X weekly Sulu-Zamboanga flights, as well as Sulu-Cotabato and Cotabato-Zamboanga, from 24 Apr. The flights will be operated with a Britten-Norman BN-2A-21, which has a capacity of 6-10 pax, including the aviators. The airline will also serve the Zamboanga-Mapun (Sulu) and Zamboanga-Sibutu (Tawi-Tawi) routes once a week, three months after the maiden flight. It also plans to launch international flights to Kota Kinabalu after a year of operationsSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1931971/new-bangsamoro-airways-to-fly-across-barmm-and-beyond
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22-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationKorean Air is looking to partner with Delta Air to launch direct flights from South Korea and the US to Clark International Airport. The airport welcomed 167,366 arrivals from South Korea in Q1 2024, +2% YoYSource: asgam.com/index.php/2024/04/22/korean-air-looking-to-launch-direct-flights-to-and-from-clark-international-airport/
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21-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationChief Executive of AirAsia Philippines, during the Boracay Business Forum, announced that the airline expects to be ready to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the “next 5-7 years”. He added that the airline is currently doing an “engine taxi practice”, that has helped reduce around 130,000 tonnes of emitted carbon emissions. The airline has flown 250,000 passengers in Q1 2024Source: tribune.net.ph/2024/04/21/phl-aviation-players-vow-for-sustainability-in-boracay
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20-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPanglao Municipal Government in Bohol closed down the Villa Tomasa Alona Kew White Beach Resort for allegedly operating without a business permitSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1931693/bohol-resort-closed-for-lack-of-business-permit
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20-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundAlliance Global Group Inc. (AGI) aims to expand its hotel portfolio to 12,000 rooms by 2028, with an additional six properties from its Megaworld Hotels and Resorts Group. The group currently has nearly 8,000 rooms in 19 international and homegrown hotels nationwide, including 1,200 rooms in three Marriott group properties. The group is also one of the largest partners of other international brands like the Hilton group, the IHG group, and the Okura group. AGI has around 15 homegrown brands nationwideSource: philstar.com/business/2024/04/20/2348947/agi-rides-tourism-boom-hotel-expansion
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20-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines gained regulatory approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission to raise its capital stock to 30 billion PHP, up from the initial 13.5 billion PHP, to free up space to receive additional funding from one of the companies under the Lucio Tan Group of Companies (LT Group)Source: philstar.com/business/2024/04/20/2348956/pal-hikes-capital-p30-billion
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20-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundLeechiu Property Consultants (LPC) Director for Hotel, Tourism, and Leisure projects an upcoming hotel shortage in the Philippines, with only 87 properties with 25,000 keys in the pipeline from 2025-2028. LPC forecasts that the Philippines’ room supply will only be at 308,000 rooms by 2028. LPC added that tourism arrivals is targeted to grow by around 10% annually, whilst growth in hotel keys is projected to be only at less than 1% between 2025-2028. LPC reported that 40% of the upcoming hotels are located in Metro Manila (9,668 rooms), followed by 16% in Cebu (3,880 rooms), whilst the rest are distributed among Boracay, Davao, Palawan, and other destinationsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/20/keys-muna-imminent-hotel-room-shortage-and-resulting-higher-room-rates-could-derail-phls-ambition-to-lure-more-visitors/
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19-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationHK Express to launch Hong Kong-Clark flights from 6 Jun, with 4X weekly flightsSource: rappler.com/business/hk-express-starts-clark-hong-kong-route-june-6-2024/
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19-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) announced that it will maintain the airline fuel surcharge at Level 6 in May. Under Level 6, fuel surcharge ranges from 185-665 PHP for domestic flights and 610.37-4,538.40 PHP for international flights, depending on the distanceSource: bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/04/19/589208/unchanged-fuel-surcharge-for-may-seen-to-support-air-travel-demand/
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19-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippines Country Manager for Korean Air reported that average load factor on the Seoul-Manila route surpassed 85% in 2023. The airline maintained its flight frequency at 3X daily to Manila and once daily to Cebu, and is seeing “trong passenger volumes, even in low season”Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/19/south-korea-visitors-to-reach-pre-covid-levels-by-4q/
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19-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) reported that the Philippines generated 322 sales leads and projected revenue of 489,129,353.80 PHP during ITB Berlin 2024, +50% YoYSource: ttrweekly.com/site/2024/04/philippines-over-the-moon-with-itb-sales/
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19-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Environmental and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) has launched the Sibugay Adventure Tourism and Eco Recreation Society (SATERS) during the first general assembly of the Mindanao Communicators Network Zamboanga Sibugay Chapter (MindaComNet-ZSC). SATERS aim to help develop and implement sustainable tourism programmes in the province, especially in potential eco-tourism sites, with a focus on Naga-Kabasalan Protected Landscape (NaKaPLan). PENRO will launch and oversee training and capacity building programmes for tourism operators, local communities, and tourists, once SATERS officially commencesSource: pia.gov.ph/news/2024/04/19/new-adventure-tourism-society-to-ignite-sustainable-eco-travel-in-sibugay
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18-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThailand hopes to sign a tourism deal within 2024 with the Philippines to push the “Two Countries, One Destination” initiative. The Thai Ambassador to the Philippines revealed that stakeholders are in talks for a possible direct Cebu-Phuket flightSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/18/phl-thailand-eye-two-countries-one-destination-tie-up-in-june/
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18-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia Philippines have issued statements warning passengers of the upcoming Red Lightning Alert season, which could potentially cause flight delaysSource: news.abs-cbn.com/world/2024/4/17/middle-east-floods-2140
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18-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Spokesperson reported that AirAsia Philippines’ system was unable to connect to the internet server, leading to manual check-in processes since 16 Apr. The connectivity issue was due to AirAsia’s IT and telecommunications provider, SITA, encountering a problem with an internet service pole outside NAIA Terminal 3. AirAsia’s system has been restored and operations are back to normal. Four flights were delayed and none was cancelledSource: philstar.com/headlines/2024/04/18/2348538/internet-outage-delays-naia-flights
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18-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Davao City Government expressed disappointment on the management of the Davao International Airport and demanded the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Region XI “to act swiftly and improve the facilities and services” at the airport. Complaints include poor or no water services at restrooms, untidy floors, poor air conditioning system, poor lighting inside the building, and the lack of push cartsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/18/caap-told-shape-up-on-davao-airport/
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18-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundIloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) in partnership with Megaworld Corp., local government units (LGUs) of Iloilo, DOT-6 (Western Visayas), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iloilo, and Iloilo M.I.C.E Alliance launched the “Visit Iloilo” campaign on 15 Apr, aiming to position Iloilo as “one of the premier tourist destinations” in the PhilippinesSource: manilatimes.net/2024/04/18/regions/iloilo-launches-new-tourism-campaign/1942128
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18-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundNueva Vizcaya Paragliding, the first and only DOT-accredited paragliding operator in the Philippines, will cease operations after 6 years on 30 Apr due to differences over safety standards with licensing bodies and local pilots it trained. The firm stated: “Despite our best efforts, our countless appeals for unity and integrity fell on deaf ears making it difficult for us to continue operating at the standard of safety and excellence we wish to achieve”. The company hinted at resuming operations, but didn’t give any details of the date and locationSource: bilyonaryo.com/2024/04/18/sad-landing-first-philippine-tourism-department-accredited-paragliding-operator-folds-wings-amid-row-on-safety-standards/travel/
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17-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationCebu Pacific has become the first Southeast Asian airline to be recognised as a “Great Place To Work for 2024” by the Great Place To Work InstituteSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/17/cebu-pacific-earns-great-place-to-work-certification/
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17-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundSingaporean Foreign Minister met with the Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary to discuss the prospects of Singapore buying carbon credits from the PhilippinesSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/17/singapore-looking-to-buy-carbon-credits-from-phl/
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17-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects the Philippine’s GDP to grow 6.2% in 2024 and 2025, faster than its initial estimate of 6% in Jan. IMF also projects unemployment rate to increase to 5.1% in 2024 and 5.2% in 2025. Inflation is expected to average 3.6% in 2024, before declining to 3% in 2025Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/17/imf-phl-growth-faster-but-jobless-rate-to-rise/
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17-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) aims to complete the runway repair at Davao International Airport by the first week of May, instead of by end-May. The repair is currently 36.67% completed. CAAP said that only 6 out of 84 daily flights are affected by the runway’s daily closure from 12am-4amSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1222842
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17-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Philippines has become the official airline carried who will be flying ambassadors from ASEAN and other Asian countries for the International Business Forum and Diplomatic Visit event in BoracaySource: newsroom.airasia.com/news/2024/4/17/airasia-philippines-championing-tourism-through-international-collaboration#gsc.tab=0
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17-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) forecasts heat index in 17 areas to range from 42°C-44°C on 17 AprSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1930636/heat-index-april-17-42c-to-44c-temperature-in-17-areas
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16-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe National Grid Corp of the Philippines reported that nineteen generators on Luzon island are offline, whilst another three are running on reduced capacity, due to the current heat wave. The grid has been placed on red alert for the first time in nearly a year, meaning supply is seen as insufficient to meet demand. The Visayas grid is under yellow alert, meaning the margin of supply is under a contingency threshold, with a dozen facilities shut downSource: bangkokpost.com/world/2776937/extreme-heat-shuts-philippine-power-plants
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16-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT awarded the local government units (LGUs) of Nueva Vizcaya, Bohol, and Basilan as the first-place winners in the inaugural Tourism Champions Challenge (TCC), with a prize of 20 million PHP each to be used for the LGUs’ respective winning tourism projects. The prizes were granted to Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya to build its first local paragliding airport terminal; Tubigon, Bohol for the construction of infrastructure at the Enchanted Ilijan (volcanic) Plug; and Isabela City, Basilan for its Lampinigan Jetty Port and Leisure Development Project. There were a total of 15 winners for the event with the second to fifth place winners receiving prize money of 15 million PHP, 10 million PHP, 8 million PHP, and 7 million PHP respectivelySource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/16/dot-rewards-15-lgus-for-top-tourism-projects/
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16-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundSamar Provincial Government launched three tourism circuits – the Tandaya Trail Tourism Circuit; Mabaysay Cultural River Cruise; and Secret Kitchens of Samar Gastronomy Tour – as part of its “Spark Samar” campaign. The Department of Labour and Employment provided PHP3.5 million in livelihood grants to seven tourism worker associations during the launch eventSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1222748
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15-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT reported that the National Capital Region (NCR) and Cebu province were the regions that welcomed the most overnight travellers as of 7 Mar, with 6.35 million and 4.03 million travellers, respectively. They also welcomed the most foreign travellers, with 2.1 million for NCR and 1.45 million for Cebu. DOT attributes the large volume due to the two regions being major international gateways for international travellers – via the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport – but noted that “there is a possibility that some travel to other destinations as part of their visit to the Philippines”. Other popular regions for foreign travellers include Palawan (680,895); Pampanga (583,743); Aklan (428,704); and Bohol (325,499). NCR recorded the largest number of domestic guests at 4.24 million, which likely also include Metro Manila residents checking into hotels for staycations. Batangas was the second most popular destination with 3.3 million domestic guests, followed by Rizal (3.04 million); Cebu province (2.58 million); Zambales (1.94 million); Aklan (1.73 million); Camarines Sur (1.43 million); Davao del Sur (1.42 million); Negros Occidental (1.41 million); Benguet (1.37 million); and Cavite (1.32 million). Aklan was the most popular destination for overseas Filipinos with 40,000 guests, followed by Palawan (10,925); Davao del Sur (10,459); Iloilo (8,594); NCR (5,897); Cebu (3,328); and Camarines Norte (1,183)Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/15/foreigners-flock-to-palawan-pampanga-boracay-bohol/
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15-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Bank of America (BofA) reported that the Philippines are one of the destinations in Asia that have yet to reach pre-pandemic levels of tourism arrivals, at 76% as of Feb 2024. The bank reported that Chinese arrivals are only at 20%-30% of pre-pandemic levels in the Philippines. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) forecasts tourism receipts to grow by 50% in 2025Source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/568040/chinese-tourist-absence-hampers-ph-tourism-recovery
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15-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPresident Marcos Jr., in his keynote speech at the Tourism Champions Challenge Awarding Ceremony, said that tourism stakeholders “must work harder to make our country stand out amidst a very competitive market”, adding that “we are in the midst of a great travel resurgence, which must be met with our own tourism renaissance”Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1930164/marcos-tells-tourism-stakeholders-make-ph-stand-out
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15-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Bohol Provincial Board (PB) is looking into a Victour’s Recreation Hub, a tourism establishment built inside the protected Sta. Fe Beach in Alburquerque town, part of the Alburquerque-Loay-Loboc Protected Landscape and Seascape (ALLPLS). Chair of the PB Committee on Environment and Natural Protection investigated the establishment on 11 Apr. Owner of Victour’s Recreation Hub said his establishment was cleared by the province’s Protected Area Management Board, whilst the environmental compliance certificate (ECC) was still being processed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The establishment moved its ticketing office to a private area outside the protected area when they received the “immediate stoppage order” from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office on 8 AprSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1929753/another-bohol-resort-investigated-for-environmental-violations
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15-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation in Cordillera rose to 4% in Mar, from 3.1% in Feb, at the peak tourist season due to expensive food, electricity, and gasoline. Ifugao province recorded the highest inflation rate of 6.8% in Mar, up from 6.5% in Feb. Mountain Province recorded the lowest inflation rate of 1.4% in Mar, up from 0.3% in Feb. Baguio City also recorded a rise in inflation to 3.6% in Mar, from 2.7% in Feb. Inflation for restaurants and accommodation services in Baguio reached 7.6% in Mar, up from 6.6% in FebSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1929751/cordillera-inflation-climbs-in-summer-tourist-seasonifugao-records-highest-rate
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15-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationGlobal business jet service provider VistaJet reported a 2% increase in total flight hours and a 3% increase in total flight numbers for its Philippine clients. Top destinations include Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and SeoulSource: business.inquirer.net/454652/demand-for-private-jets-on-the-rise
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14-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) advised departing and arriving passengers to not bring “vulnerable” individuals to the airport for farewells and greetings, following a recent incident where an elderly woman who came to the airport to greet arriving relatives felt dizzy amid the high heat index and had to undergo emergency medical careSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1929605/vulnerable-people-shouldnt-go-to-airport-miaa
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13-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundCebu Tours & Travel Alliance (CTTA) is holding the 8th Cebu Travel Catalogue International (CTCI) at Ayala Centre Cebu from 12-14 Apr. The travel fair is endorsed by DOT-7 (Central Visayas)Source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net/567831/cebu-travel-catalogue-international-2024-presents-opportunities-for-cebuanos-to-travel-more
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13-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Secretary inaugurated the Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Roxas Palawan, then visited Quezon to join the Philippine Experience Programme (PEP) promotional tour. She praised the hospitality of the Filipino people after her helicopter flight was forced to “make an emergency landing somewhere in Roxas due to inclement weather”Source: palawan-news.com/the-best-tourism-experience-is-filipino-hospitality-dot-sec-frasco/
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12-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the number of unemployed Filipinos stood at 3.5% or 1.8 million in Feb, down from 4.5% of 2.15 million in Jan. PSA said that this was the second lowest unemployment rate since Dec 2023. Accommodations and food service recorded the third highest MoM increase in employment, absorbing 325,000 new workers. Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) stood at 64.8% in Feb, lower than 66.6% in Feb 2023 but higher than 61.1% in Jan. The labour force totalled 50.75 million people in FebSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1929083/jobless-pinoys-at-1-8m-in-february-down-from-2-15m
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12-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasts the Philippines’ GDP growth to average 6% in its latest Asian Development Outlook (ADO), lower than its previous forecasts of 6.2% in Sep and Dec 2023. Inflation is expected to average 3.8% in 2024, lower than the 4% forecast in Sep and Dec 2023. ADB also estimates GDP growth at 6.2% and inflation at 3.4% for 2025Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/12/high-inflation-spurs-adb-to-cut-phl-growth-outlook/
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12-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT launched the Philippine Experience Programme (PEP) in Palawan on 10 Apr, with the participation of over 70 individuals, including the Thai Ambassador to the PhilippinesSource: pia.gov.ph/news/2024/04/12/tourism-program-highlights-tourist-attractions-in-mimaropa
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11-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) now forecasts the Philippine peso to average between 55-57 against the USD in 2024, an upgrade from the previous forecast of between 55-58. DBCC kept its forecast at between 55-58 for 2025-2028Source: business.inquirer.net/454076/dbcc-predicts-stronger-peso-in-24
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11-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundDOT reported that the Philippines has welcomed 1.6 million international arrivals in Q1 2024, +21.3% YoY. South Korea was the top source market with 458,619 arrivals, +26% YoY, followed by the US (264,690 arrivals), China (109,568 arrivals, +150% YoY), and Japan (105,347 arrivals, +63.2% YoY)Source: agbrief.com/news/philippines/11/04/2024/philippines-receives-1-6m-international-tourists-in-1q24-chinese-arrivals-surge-150/
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10-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundMetropolitan Manila Development Authority announced that local government offices in Metro Manila will operate from 7am-4pm instead of the current 8am-5pm starting from 2 May, in response to worsening traffic congestion in the citySource: rappler.com/nation/metro-manila/local-government-units-working-hours-starting-april-15-2024/
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10-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundMalay Municipal Tourism Office reported that Boracay Island welcomed 538,603 visitors in Q1 2024, +2.86% YoY and +5.09% vs 2019. Of the total, 144,405 visitors, or around 26.8%, were international arrivals, +32% YoY but -53.4% vs 2019. Foreign arrivals accounted for 60% of the total arrivals in 2019. There were 386,868 domestic arrivals in Q1, or around 72% of the total, -2.2% YoY but +109.53% vs 2019. Boracay Island’s carrying capacity of 19,215 visitors at any given time was breached for three days in Mar during the Holy Week for the third consecutive year – on 28 Mar (Maundy Thursday) with 23,367 visitors; 29 Mar (Good Friday) with 24,049 visitors; and 30 Mar (Black Saturday) with 21,776 visitors. Total arrivals from 24-31 Mar reached 56,134, whilst total departures reached 53,526Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/10/locals-push-q1-arrivals-on-boracay-to-538603/
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10-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines President said the airline aims to serve around 16 million passengers in 2024, recovering to pre-pandemic levels. PAL is looking at reviving old routes, such as Cebu-Osaka and Manila-Sapporo, to cater to the growing demand for flights to JapanSource: business.inquirer.net/453971/pal-to-regain-prepandemic-passenger-volume-this-year
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10-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationMalaysian Ambassador to the Philippines said that Malaysia hopes to increase flights to the Philippines, especially to Mindanao, as there is more demand due to the “vibrant” Halal tourism sector there, such as in Zamboanga City and Davao Region. He also expressed Malaysia’s readiness to help Manila tap into the Halal food marketSource: pna.gov.ph/articles/1222399
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9-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Secretary presented the 2023-2028 National Tourism Development Plan for Visayas stakeholders in Iloilo City. The plan aims to create 6.3 million jobs in the tourism sector by 2028, accounting for 12.9% of the Philippines’ total employmentSource: mb.com.ph/2024/4/9/dot-presents-five-year-national-tourism-development-for-visayas
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9-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines to resume its Cotabato-Tawi-Tawi route with 2X weekly flights from 15 Apr, after the route was suspended in Mar 2023Source: bilyonaryo.com/2024/04/09/easier-travel-within-barmm-pal-revives-cotabato-tawi-tawi-route/travel/
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9-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationEmirates held a cabin crew open day in Manila on 8 Apr, the first time it has opened cabin crew recruitment in the Philippines following a 14-year hiring freezeSource: aerotime.aero/articles/thousands-of-hopefuls-line-up-for-emirates-cabin-crew-open-day-in-manila
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8-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundPresident Marcos Jr. said that he does not see the need to declare a nationwide state of calamity due to the El Niño, noting that the situation will be tackled regionally according to the local states of calamity that local governments have declared in affected areasSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1927509/marcos-no-need-to-declare-nationwide-state-of-calamity-due-to-el-nino
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8-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Oriental Leyte Hotel, which was formerly owned by former first lady Imelda Marcos, has ceased operations after nearly 12 years since it reopened with new management under a lease agreement with the provincial government of LeyteSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1927368/hotel-built-by-imelda-marcos-in-leyte-ends-operations
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8-Apr-2024 🛬 inboundThe Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported that over 150 Vietnamese, 30 Chinese, and 14 Indonesian nationals were among the 220 foreign nationals that were denied entry to the Philippines in May. BI’s immigration protection and border enforcement section (I-PROBES) said the increase in entry denials for Vietnamese were attributed to the influx of Vietnamese nationals found to be working in illegal online gaming hubsSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2024/04/08/bi-denies-entry-to-vietnamese-nationals/
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8-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationPhilippine Airlines President projects around 10%-20% growth in passenger volume in 2024Source: bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/04/08/586472/pal-says-passenger-volume-may-soar-by-up-to-20-this-year/
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8-Apr-2024 👨✈️ aviationThe Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) assured that operations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3 will run as usual amidst electrical systems upgrades from 2 Apr-28 May, adding that the maintenance activities will not “in any way impede the processing of passengers and baggage, and shall have no disruptive effect on flight operations”Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1927388/airport-repair-wont-disrupt-operations-says-official
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