Statement of the Secretary of Tourism on Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

Secretary Jimenez: "We believe that tourism is the shortest path to inclusive growth. Tourism provides jobs. It spurs businesses and connects many industries. We believe its contribution to achieving key advances in our economic goals for it is truly the business of the people." More here: Statement of the Secretary of Tourism on Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

UK advises nationals on Davao ‘threat’

The United Kingdom on Tuesday advised its nationals to be careful when traveling to Davao City and other parts of Mindanao that it said are on alert due to an "unspecified" security threat. More here: UK advises nationals on Davao ‘threat’

90% plunge in Semporna tourist arrivals – Gan

KOTA KINABALU: Tourist arrivals to Semporna have plunged between 80 to 90 per cent following the spate of […] More here: 90% plunge in Semporna tourist arrivals – Gan

Travel and get paid

Exploring the various wonders of the world may empty one’s pocket in just a snap of a finger but studying Cruise Ship Management will not just fill those pockets but even give students a chance to spend a night in the city of their dreams. La Consolacion College Manila (LCCM) is now offering its newest course, BS Hotel and Restaurant Management major in Cruise Ship Management for school year ... More here: Travel and get paid

Roxas to Davao folk: No travel ban but be alert

MANILA, Philippines---Amid reports of looming terrorist threat in Davao City, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II assured on Monday that imposing a travel ban in the Davao Region is unnecessary, stressing that extra vigilance among citizens is the best response to possible danger. Roxas, in a hastily called press briefing, said that they would not advise the public to refrain from traveling to ... More here: Roxas to Davao folk: No travel ban but be alert

Information: Improving skills of tourism workers

As facilities and attractions in tourist destinations undergo upgrading, so do the skills and competencies of workers in the tourism industry. An assistance of $7.1 million for skills development training was provided by the Canadian government to raise the quality of services of workers in 26 Philippine hotels, resorts, and tourism industry associations. The 26 were the first batch of grantees ... More here: Information: Improving skills of tourism workers

Ending Summer Escapades

THE onset of the rainy months signals the end of summer and vacations we have experienced, travels we have gone through, and escapades that kept us busy. Local travel is what we look forward the most, during these dry months, as it is only the time that affords us time to sit back and relax. For the past months, Baguio had been hosts to various events like the Panagbenga Flower Festival, Holy ... More here: Ending Summer Escapades

Citing threat to Davao City, Australia reissues travel advisory over parts of Mindanao

Australia on Sunday advised its nationals on the heightened security in Davao City, while advising them against traveling to parts of Mindanao because of a "very high threat" of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violence and crime. More here: Citing threat to Davao City, Australia reissues travel advisory over parts of Mindanao

Featured Traveler: Allan Wilson of Live-Less-Ordinary.com

Allan created Live-Less-Ordinary.com in 2012. His style of travel is focused on realistic accounts of experiences in Asia through local immersion, photography and food and he prefers to avoid the mass tourist market in favour of boutique and niche markets. Allan Wilson enjoying Filipino Food in Palawan Learn more about Allan by reading his interesting […] (Visited 2 times, 2 visits today) The ... More here: Featured Traveler: Allan Wilson of Live-Less-Ordinary.com

DPWH spends on road projects leading to tourist spots

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is spending on numerous road projects that will support the country’s tourism industry. Around P53 billion (or $1.2 billion*) was allocated for the construction or repair of roads leading to famous tourist spots in the ... More here: DPWH spends on road projects leading to tourist spots

Bosch expands BPO unit, hires 400 more

Bosch Philippines recently announced new investments of its business process outsourcing (BPO) services arm, the Bosch Communication Center to boost its capacity and operations in the Philippines with the hiring of additional 400 employees. The expansion of the Bosch Communications Center involves acquisition of new facilities that will house operations for all external projects and the hiring ... More here: Bosch expands BPO unit, hires 400 more

Aussie tourist charged with child trafficking in Cebu, Philippines

An Australian tourist is facing child abuse cases in Cebu province in the Philippines after he was arrested for bringing girls to his room at a beach resort and taking lewd photos of the minors More here: Aussie tourist charged with child trafficking in Cebu, Philippines

LATEST NEWS:

An Australian tourist is facing child abuse cases in Cebu province in the Philippines after he was arrested for bringing girls to his room at a beach resort and taking lewd photos of the minors. More here: LATEST NEWS:

Cebu needs more products to get 5M tourists by 2016: economist

FACED with strong regional and domestic competition, Cebu needs to position itself as the top tourist destination in the Philippines and help the country become one of the top five most visited countries in Southeast Asia. “Cebu is being left behind by its neighbors in tourist arrivals. More here: Cebu needs more products to get 5M tourists by 2016: economist

Bill to make Our Lady of Manaoag shrine major tourist destination

The miraculous and much-beloved Our Lady of Manaoag shrine in Pangasinan should be turned into a pilgrimage site and tourist destination, a solon from the province said. Rep. Gina De Venecia of the province’s 4th district filed House Bill 4481 mandating the Department of Tourism (DOT) to come up with a comprehensive development plan for the improvement of the Manaoag Shrine, all areas attached ... More here: Bill to make Our Lady of Manaoag shrine major tourist destination

DOT gets P554-M promo budget

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P554.4 million to the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) for the implementation of the Philippines’ marketing and promotional activities. In a statement, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad said the funding will support the efforts of the TPB of elevating the Philippines as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. The ... More here: DOT gets P554-M promo budget

Ex-TRC chief Dennis Cunanan seeks court permission to travel

Provisional state witness Dennis Cunanan, former director general of the Technology Resource Center (TRC), has asked the anti-graft court's permission to leave the country. More here: Ex-TRC chief Dennis Cunanan seeks court permission to travel

Dennis Cunanan to court: Let me travel abroad

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Provisional state witness Dennis Cunanan on Friday, June 27, asked the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan to allow him to travel abroad. In his manifestation and motion for leave of court to travel abroad, Cunanan said his duties as World Secretary General of Junior Chambers International require him ... More here: Dennis Cunanan to court: Let me travel abroad

Tourist arrivals up 3 pct in 5 months

MANILA, Philippines - Foreign tourist arrivals from January to May this year increased three percent to more than two million, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT). More here: Tourist arrivals up 3 pct in 5 months

Surge In Tourist Arrivals To Vietnam In First Half Of 2014

HANOI, June 26 (Bernama) - Vietnam received more than 4.28 million foreign tourists in the first half of the year, a year-on-year increase of 21.11 percent. More here: Surge In Tourist Arrivals To Vietnam In First Half Of 2014

PNoy thanks Japan for relaxing visa requirements

TOKYO - President Benigno Aquino and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe discussed the relaxation of visa requirements for Filipinos visiting Japan. More here: PNoy thanks Japan for relaxing visa requirements

Abandoned children fear as US troops eye Philippines

When the last US ship pulled out of the Philippines' Subic naval base more than two decades ago, a desperate young woman's hopes of finding her father sailed away with it. Beirut Calaguas, now 44, is among the tens of thousands of "Amerasians" fathered by US soldiers who served in the Philippines, home to the US military's biggest overseas bases until they closed down in 1992. Like so many ... More here: Abandoned children fear as US troops eye Philippines

Abandoned Children Fear as US Troops Eye Philippines

When the last US ship pulled out of the Philippines' Subic naval base more than two decades ago, a desperate young woman's hopes of finding her father sailed away with it. More here: Abandoned Children Fear as US Troops Eye Philippines

PH widens tourism campaign with P554.4-M fund

In line with the Aquino Administration’s efforts at elevating the Philippines as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P554.4 million to the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) for the implementation of its marketing and promotional activities. More here: PH widens tourism campaign with P554.4-M fund

Philippines Express Delivery and Logistics Market Outlook to 2017 - Maturing Market Sustained Surging E-Commerce ...

LONDON, June 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportbuyer.com has added a new market research report: Philippines Express Delivery and Logistics Market Outlook to 2017 - Maturing Market Sustained Surging E-Commerce ... More here: Philippines Express Delivery and Logistics Market Outlook to 2017 - Maturing Market Sustained Surging E-Commerce ...

Solon seeks declaration of Our Lady of Manaoag as pilgrimage site and tourist destination (Congress of the Philippines)

(Source: Congress of the Philippines) A lady lawmaker has filed a measure which seeks to declare the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag in the province of Pangasinan as a pilgrimage site and tourist destination. Rep. Gina De Venecia (4th District, Pangasinan) filed House Bill 4481 mandating the Department of Tourism (DOT) to come up with a comprehensive development plan for the ... More here: Solon seeks declaration of Our Lady of Manaoag as pilgrimage site and tourist destination (Congress of the Philippines)

New UNICEF rep is a balikbayan of sorts

FOR Lotta Sylwander, her assignment to the Philippines as UNICEF Representative, is actually a homecoming. Sylwander, from Sweden, was a backpack tourist way back in the 70’s and 80’s. She met and married (they are now divorced) someone from the Rojas family of Cavite. They have two children. More here: New UNICEF rep is a balikbayan of sorts

New UNICEF Rep is a Balikbayan

By Ellen T. Tordesillas For Lotta Sylwander, her assignment to the Philippines as UNICEF Representative, is actually a homecoming. Sylwander, from Sweden, was a backpack tourist way back in the 70’s and 80’s. She met and married (they are now … Continue reading → More here: New UNICEF Rep is a Balikbayan

New UNICEF Rep is a Balikbayan

For Lotta Sylwander, her assignment to the Philippines as UNICEF Representative, is actually a homecoming. Sylwander, from Sweden, was a backpack tourist way back in the 70’s and 80’s. She met and married (they are now divorced) someone from the Rojas family of Cavite. They have two children. Sylwander arrived in Manila last April and […] More here: New UNICEF Rep is a Balikbayan

Tigerair announces 75% off on fares

TIGERAIR Philippines is offering a 75 percent cut on fares on domestic destinations in a special seat sale from June 22 to 25, 2014 or until seats last. This is for travel from July 15 to Dec. 31, 2014. The 75 percent off fares are available on the following travel dates and destinations: Travel from July 14 to Dec. 31, 2014 to Cagayan de Oro, and travel from Aug. 1 to Dec. 31, 2014 to Bacolod ... More here: Tigerair announces 75% off on fares

Tawi-Tawi offers great business potential

KOTA KINABALU : Contrary to belief that the southern Philippines was unsafe for Malaysians to travel, the island province of Tawi-Tawi has proven otherwise for a delegation of Malaysian business professionals. More here: Tawi-Tawi offers great business potential

Tigerair announces 75% off on fares

TIGERAIR Philippines is offering a 75 percent cut on fares on domestic destinations in a special seat sale from June 22 to 25, 2014 or until seats last. This is for travel from July 15 to Dec. 31, 2014. The 75 percent off fares are available on the following travel dates and destinations: Travel from July 14 to Dec. More here: Tigerair announces 75% off on fares

An Educational Tour in the Metropolis: Must Visit Museums in Metro Manila

Metro Manila offers many places where residents can enjoy food and drinks, fitness and wellness, the night life, music and concerts, shopping, and more. However, if you want to experience something new and educational, there are several noteworthy cultural destinations suitable for people of any age. Unwind, discover something new, and travel back in time […] More here: An Educational Tour in the Metropolis: Must Visit Museums in Metro Manila

Vietnam To Take Part In Travel Trade Fair In Russia

HO CHI MINH CITY, June 23 (Bernama) - Vietnam will take part in the 20th International Trade Fair for Travel & Tourism - OTDYKH Leisure in Moscow from Sept 16 to 19, Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reports. More here: Vietnam To Take Part In Travel Trade Fair In Russia

Calling beautiful single moms

Single mothers will be pitted against single ladies in the first edition of the Miss Global Philippines pageant, which welcomes all unmarried women, including those with kids. More here: Calling beautiful single moms

New Zealand to double exports, grow tourism traffic to PH

MANILA, Philippines – New Zealand aims to double its exports to the Philippines to NZ$1.5 billion ($1.3 billion) by 2025, and pushes for more tourism traffic to the Southeast Asian nation. New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Reuben Levermore said the country's exports to the Philippines amounted to about NZ$750 million ... More here: New Zealand to double exports, grow tourism traffic to PH

Japan to further ease visa requirements for Filipinos

MANILA, Philippines – It will be easier for Filipinos to travel to Japan. This is after the Japanese government announced “substantial relaxations” of visa requirements for multiple and single-entry visas for nationals of the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia. In a press statement on the Japanese embassy website, the Japan Ministry of ... More here: Japan to further ease visa requirements for Filipinos

Tourist missing in CDO rafting adventure

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – What was supposed to be an adventure of a lifetime for Aiza Balbin, a first-time visitor to Cagayan de Oro (CDO), turned into tragedy when she went white water rafting at the city's world-famous river on Friday, June 13. The raft of Balbin and friends Marjorie Paredes ... More here: Tourist missing in CDO rafting adventure

Body of missing CDO rafting tourist found

MANILA, Philippines – The body of the tourist who went missing after white water-rafting in Cagayan de Oro was found by divers on Sunday, June 15 at around 11:30 am. According to MindaNews , the body of Aizza Balbin, a 26-year-old nurse from Bohol, was found within a maze of limestone rocks near the spot ... More here: Body of missing CDO rafting tourist found

DFA unveils travel exemptions for OFWs eyeing return to Libya

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday, June 14, announced travel exemptions for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who need to return to Libya. However, these exemptions may be withdrawn if the situation in the strife-torn country further escalates. In May, the DFA urged Filipinos to flee Libya , raising crisis alert ... More here: DFA unveils travel exemptions for OFWs eyeing return to Libya

Friendship blossoms during captivity

KOTA KINABALU - The Filipina hotel worker and the Chinese tourist who were kidnapped together on April 2 became close friends during the two months that they were in captivity in the mountainous jungle hideout of the kidnappers on Jolo island in the southern Philippines. Forty-year-old Marcy Dayawan was working at the Singamata Reef Resort near Semporna where Shanghai native Gao Huayun was ... More here: Friendship blossoms during captivity

Just Back: whale sharks in the stormy Philippines

Alex Jordan wins our weekly travel writing competition - and £200 - for this account of a storm-lashed search for the whale shark in the waters of the Philippines More here: Just Back: whale sharks in the stormy Philippines

AFC Unveiled Winner of Inaugural 'The Amazing Food Challenge: Fun in the Philippines' Series

The Asian Food Channel (AFC), part of the Scripps Networks Interactive family of lifestyle media brands, unveiled the winner of its original production, The Amazing Food Challenge: Fun in the Philippines on Tuesday, 3 June at 9.00pm. More here: AFC Unveiled Winner of Inaugural 'The Amazing Food Challenge: Fun in the Philippines' Series

Sabah, from tourist paradise to kidnappers' HEAVEN!

Sabah has now become a haven for abductors and each abduction is a tragedy, as well as a harm to Malaysia. In April and May… More here: Sabah, from tourist paradise to kidnappers' HEAVEN!

Travel photos we wish we'd taken

Check out our gallery of your best travel photos from around the world, and submit your own at CNN iReport. More here: Travel photos we wish we'd taken

Will travel for food

It is always easy to guess with accuracy where a friend has spent the weekend—the clues lie in the food presents brought back as gifts for friends and family. Durian and pomelo indicate Davao; suman, duhat, and kasuy nuts can only come as a trio from an Antipolo pilgrimage; fat mud crabs hint at Iloilo and […] More here: Will travel for food

Many OFWs victimized " US State Dep't

WASHINGTON – A significant number of Filipinos who migrate abroad looking for work are subsequently subjected to sex trafficking and forced labor in Asia, throughout the Middle East and increasingly in Europe, the US State Department said. More here: Many OFWs victimized " US State Dep't

Boracay, El Nido named among best in Asia, world

MANILA, Philippines -- Boracay's White Beach has again gained an accolade from a top travel website. More here: Boracay, El Nido named among best in Asia, world

Kenya Travel Warning

U.S. citizens in Kenya, and those considering travel to Kenya, should evaluate their personal security situation in light of continuing and recently heightened threats from terrorism and the high rate of violent crime in some areas. Video: Door-to-door hunt for killers in Kenya More here: Kenya Travel Warning

DOT sees more tourist arrivals from HK

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expects tourist traffic from Hong Kong will significantly increase in the coming months as the government is set to launch more aggressive programs for the region. Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez said DOT is set to conduct a sales mission in the special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China to signal the Philippines’ serious efforts to welcome ... More here: DOT sees more tourist arrivals from HK

DOT still struggles to lure back Hong Kong tourists

Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr. said tourist arrivals from Hong Kong had risen last year after the government revved up the promotion of tourist sites to new segments of travelers, mostly expatriates, divers and solo travelers. More here: DOT still struggles to lure back Hong Kong tourists

Strong rupee flies holidayers abroad

Travel agents note rise in international travel; popular destinations include Europe, USA, Turkey, Bali, Philippines, Mauritius and Australia More here: Strong rupee flies holidayers abroad

Indonesia Eyes 12 Million Tourist Arrivals By 2019

JAKARTA, June 20 (Bernama) -- Indonesia has set a target 12.7 million tourist arrivals by 2019, Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported. More here: Indonesia Eyes 12 Million Tourist Arrivals By 2019

Hawaii Guard to help rebuild Philippines school damaged in typhoon

The proj­ect is part of Hawaii's long-term efforts to assist victims in the Philippines of Typhoon Hai­yan, which struck the country in November and was one of the strongest typhoons on record. More here: Hawaii Guard to help rebuild Philippines school damaged in typhoon

Embassy tapping Israeli celebrities to promote local tourist attractions

Some of the brightest stars in Israel's entertainment business are slated to join the biggest tourism promotion event rolled out this year by the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv. For almost three years, the Philippine embassy said it laid down the blueprint of the first ever Philippine Familiarization Tour for Israeli celebrities, journalists and businessmen. ... More here: Embassy tapping Israeli celebrities to promote local tourist attractions

Japan To Ease Visa Rules For Vietnamese, Indonesian Tourists

TOKYO, June 19 (Bernama) - Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs will ease visa rules for tourists from Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines in a bid to double tourist numbers ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. More here: Japan To Ease Visa Rules For Vietnamese, Indonesian Tourists

Airline ticket scam suspect on the run

A former employee of a major San Francisco-based travel firm, who allegedly scammed customers traveling to the Philippines with bogus airline tickets, has gone into “deep hiding” as complaints continued to mount against him. More here: Airline ticket scam suspect on the run

Japan visa application to be much easier for Pinoys

The Japanese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday announced “substantial relaxations” of visa requirements for travelers holding passports from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam. More here: Japan visa application to be much easier for Pinoys

It is supposed to be a tourist paradise!

Sabah has now become a haven for abductors and each abduction is a tragedy, as well as a harm to Malaysia. More here: It is supposed to be a tourist paradise!

‘New’ banca now available to fisherfolk

FASTER, cheaper and easier to make. More here: ‘New’ banca now available to fisherfolk

Body of missing tourist who went rafting in CDO found

The body of the tourist who went missing when the raft she was riding capsized three days ago, was found Sunday morning. More here: Body of missing tourist who went rafting in CDO found

More Filipinos visiting South Korea—SoKor embassy

While Korean tourists continue to “invade” the Philippines, there is a growing wave of Filipinos choosing South Korea as their holiday destination. More here: More Filipinos visiting South Korea—SoKor embassy

Report: Tourist missing from Cagayan de Oro whitewater adventure

A female tourist was reported missing after an inflatable raft she and some companions were riding in a white water adventure in Cagayan de Oro City capsized Friday, a Mindanao news site reported early Saturday. More here: Report: Tourist missing from Cagayan de Oro whitewater adventure

More Filipinos visiting South Korea—SoKor embassy

While Korean tourists continue to “invade” the Philippines, there is a growing wave of Filipinos choosing South Korea as their holiday destination. More here: More Filipinos visiting South Korea—SoKor embassy

Tourist goes missing in De Oro river

A tourist went missing after a white-water rafting accident in Cagayan River here on Friday and efforts transitioned from search and rescue to search and recovery on Saturday. More here: Tourist goes missing in De Oro river

Philippines tourism puts whale sharks at risk

Scientists worry feeding of world's biggest fish, a top attraction, could have negative effects on their behavior. More here: Philippines tourism puts whale sharks at risk

This 6 minutes Video Proves That The Philippines Is Paradise For Backpackers

Do you think Philippines is just another Tropical Asian Country? Think again. Equipped with GoPro, These Travel Bugs visited some islands in the Visayas and Palawan and guess what? They loved it!! Philippines Travel Videos Do you like this video? Please share it on your Social Media Accounts:) #ItsMoreFuninthePhilippines (Visited 107 times, 108 visits today) The post This 6 minutes Video Proves ... More here: This 6 minutes Video Proves That The Philippines Is Paradise For Backpackers

Withlocals.com: Discover the Philippines with a local

It was during the mid 90′s when I started publishing my travel tales online and during those days, I rarely travel to unfamiliar places. I prefer traveling to destinations where I have friends who lives there just to make sure somebody can guide me and give me ideas about places to go, eat and stay. […] (Visited 4 times, 4 visits today) The post Withlocals.com: Discover the Philippines with a ... More here: Withlocals.com: Discover the Philippines with a local

M’sia Welcome 7.09 Mln Tourist In 2014 First Quarter

Pic:NST PUTRAJAYA : In tandem with the “Visit Malaysia Year (VMY)2014,� the country has welcomed 7.09 million tourists for the first quarter of this year from 6.45 million tourists during the same period last year, a hike of 10 per cent. More here: M’sia Welcome 7.09 Mln Tourist In 2014 First Quarter

Will travel for food

It is always easy to guess with accuracy where a friend has spent the weekend—the clues lie in the food presents brought back as gifts for friends and family. Aside from the pasalubong (trip souvenirs as gifts), the traveler enthusiastically regales everyone with tales of great food indigenous to the places visited. Indeed, as explained by Unilever sous chef Carlos “Pipo” Aluning, “Traveling for ... More here: Will travel for food

Sri Lanka wins 'Best Booth Design Award' at KOTFA

Sri Lanka won the "Best Booth Design Award" at the 29th Korean World Travel Fair (KOTFA), the largest travel exposition held at the Convention and Exhibition Center (COEX) in Seoul, South Korea from May 29 to June 1. More here: Sri Lanka wins 'Best Booth Design Award' at KOTFA

Philippines, an ideal tourist destination

The 2,000-year-old Banaue Rice Terraces were carved into the mountains of Ifugao by the ancestors of the indigenous people. More here: Philippines, an ideal tourist destination

Tourism boom fuels growth in novel lodging scheme in Philippines

Thinking of where to stay for that next business or leisure trip to the Philippines? Hotels and serviced apartments are obvious choices but for the more adventurous traveler, why not try a furnished ..... More here: Tourism boom fuels growth in novel lodging scheme in Philippines

Chavit allowed to travel abroad with Pacquiao

The Sandiganbayan has allowed former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson to travel with Saranggani Representative Manny Pacquiao to Israel and the United States. The anti-graft court’s Third Division permitted Singson to join the boxing icon to travel abroad yesterday and is expected to be back in the Philippines on June 29. Te Third Division warned Singson that if he violated the terms ... More here: Chavit allowed to travel abroad with Pacquiao

Direct flight eyed between Winnipeg and Philippines

The Winnipeg Airports Authority is pushing to get at least one direct flight to operate between Winnipeg and Manila, saying it just makes sense since 35,000 people travel between the two cities every year. More here: Direct flight eyed between Winnipeg and Philippines

Pinay seized in Sabah reunited with family

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines – A Filipina overseas worker seized along with a Chinese tourist in a resort in Sabah, Malaysia in April has been reunited with her family in a remote village in Midsayap town here. More here: Pinay seized in Sabah reunited with family

P28-M Turtle Islands tourist facility OK’d

Pagadian City – The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Region 9 office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-9) approved the resolution for the construction of a P28-million tourist facility on Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi. The construction of the hostel in the area aims to promote ecotourism in the province, and to accommodate local and foreign tourists who ... More here: P28-M Turtle Islands tourist facility OK’d

Sharing is as sharing does: Revisiting Palawan

Last month, I traveled to Palawan with my family, my second trip since 2001. To say that a lot of things about the earlier experience with this global tourist destination has changed sounds a bit unoriginal. This harks back to an article about the sharing economy in October 2013 (http://ift.tt/1hwblna), wherein I wrote that with the ... More here: Sharing is as sharing does: Revisiting Palawan

KK-Puerto Princesa flight increased to 5 times weekly

KOTA KINABALU : MASwings is increasing its flight frequencies from Kota Kinabalu to Puerto Princesa to five times weekly effective June 2 2014. The increase in weekly flights from three to now five times follows high demand for connectivity from Kota Kinabalu to the popular tourist city on Palawan island in southwestern Philippines. More here: KK-Puerto Princesa flight increased to 5 times weekly

Mekong Delta Registers Rise In Tourist Arrivals

CAN THO, June 9 (Bernama) -- The Mekong Delta region received some 11 million tourists in the first five months of the year with 2.57 trillion VND (US$120.6 million) in revenue, a year-on-year increase of 27 per cent. More here: Mekong Delta Registers Rise In Tourist Arrivals

Sharing is as sharing does: Revisiting Palawan

Last month, I traveled to Palawan with my family, my second trip since 2001. To say that a lot of things about the earlier experience with this global tourist destination has changed sounds a bit unoriginal. This harks back to an article about the sharing economy in October 2013 (http://ift.tt/1hwblna), wherein I wrote that with the ... More here: Sharing is as sharing does: Revisiting Palawan

P28-M Turtle Islands tourist facility OK’d

Pagadian City – The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Region 9 office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-9) approved the resolution for the construction of a P28-million tourist facility on Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi. The construction of the hostel in the area aims to promote ecotourism in the province, and to accommodate local and foreign tourists who ... More here: P28-M Turtle Islands tourist facility OK’d

Philippines government ‘must do better’ to rebuild education

MANILA 06 June 2014 (IRIN) - As some students in areas hit by the Philippines’s devastating Typhoon Haiyan troop back to school this month, the government’s efforts in rebuilding the education service has been met with concerns that, seven-months on, access to learning remains a challenge for far too many children.... More here: Philippines government ‘must do better’ to rebuild education

Filipina worker abducted from Semporna says well-treated during captivity

KOTA KINABALU, June 8 — The Filipina hotel worker abducted during a militant raid on a resort on Semporna in early April said that she and Chinese tourist Gao Huayun were well-treated by the kidnappers during their two-month captivity in the Philippines, The Star Online reported today. More here: Filipina worker abducted from Semporna says well-treated during captivity

Ghanaian faces deportation for insulting immigration officers

A citizen of Ghana residing temporarily in the Philippines is facing deportation after getting angry at an immigration officer who was verifying his travel documents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 on Friday. More here: Ghanaian faces deportation for insulting immigration officers

After Sayyaf ordeal, freed Filipina resort worker returns to the Philippines - The Mindanao Examiner

COTABATO CITY (Mindanao Examiner / June 7, 2014) – A kidnapped Filipina resort worker freed by the Abu Sayyaf along with a Chinese tourist has returned to her hometown in the southern Philippines after being detained and interrogated by Malaysian authorities on suspicion she was involved in the crime. More here: After Sayyaf ordeal, freed Filipina resort worker returns to the Philippines - The Mindanao Examiner

Message of Secretary Balisacan on the 1st EU-Philippines Business Dialogue, June 4, 2014

Secretary of Socioeconomic Planning Arsenio Balisacan: "I am certain that the [European Union]-Philippines Business Network is a good step in this direction and I am hoping that it will only be the start of greater cooperation efforts between Filipino and EU entrepreneurs towards a shared vision of economic development and inclusive growth." More here: Message of Secretary Balisacan on the 1st EU-Philippines Business Dialogue, June 4, 2014

LTFRB’s travel conditions threaten Makati’s free bus ride

Manila, Philippines --- The row between the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and Makati city government over the latter’s free shuttle service for Makati employees is heating up. Last May 16, the LTFRB granted the city government a special permit to run shuttle buses along EDSA with a condition that Makati employees availing themselves of the free ride should buy a ... More here: LTFRB’s travel conditions threaten Makati’s free bus ride

Top Asian News at 9:00 a.m. GMT

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — An American tourist has been detained in North Korea for allegedly committing an unspecified crime, the country's official news agency reported Friday. The Korean Central News Agency said that authorities were investigating the American for allegedly committing acts inconsistent with the purpose of a tourist visit. It did not give details More here: Top Asian News at 9:00 a.m. GMT

Editorial: Save Philippine beaches from climate risk

Local tourist destinations, especially the beaches found all over the archipelago, are at risk from climate change, President Benigno S. Aquino III said before the United Nations World Tourism Organization-ASEAN International Conference on Tourism and Climate Change held in Manila recently. We have the best beaches and dive spots in the world, but these are vulnerable to climate change, whether ... More here: Editorial: Save Philippine beaches from climate risk

Editorial: Save Philippine beaches from climate risk

Local tourist destinations, especially the beaches found all over the archipelago, are at risk from climate change, President Benigno S. Aquino III said before the United Nations World Tourism Organization-ASEAN International Conference on Tourism and Climate Change held in Manila recently. We have the best beaches and dive spots in the world, but these are […] More here: Editorial: Save Philippine beaches from climate risk

Binay wife withdraws request to travel

The wife of Vice President Jejomar Binay on Thursday withdrew from the Sandiganbayan her request to travel to Hawaii. More here: Binay wife withdraws request to travel

Philippines: Collided ships' owners yet to reveal insurers' names

Adelino Sitoy, Mayor of Cordova in the Philippines, has said that 2GO Travel and Philippine Span Asia Carrier Corp. – owners of the two ships that collided in August 2013 – have yet to disclose the names of insurers that covered the liabilities.The collision resulted in an oil spill and More here: Philippines: Collided ships' owners yet to reveal insurers' names

Agoda and #itsmorefunPH roll out deals to mark Independence Day Celebrations

Starting June, Agoda.com will roll out Pinoy Pride deals via the Philippines’ flagship tourism website, itsmorefuninthePhilippines.com. More than 70 hotels located around the country can be booked with discounted rates of up to 40% off. Stay dates validity cover until December 2014. Agoda.com, Asia’s leading accommodation site, and the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines […] More here: Agoda and #itsmorefunPH roll out deals to mark Independence Day Celebrations

No ransom paid, instead million$ as 'expenses'?

Kuala Lumpur: A hefty ransom may not have been paid for the release of 29-year-old Chinese tourist Gao Hua Yuan and resort worker Marcy Dayawan, 40, last Friday but their freedom did not come free. More here: No ransom paid, instead million$ as 'expenses'?

SE Asia Stocks - Thai index up; tourism stocks gain as curfew ends

BANGKOK, June 4 (Reuters) - Thai shares recovered from early losses on Wednesday with tourism stocks outperforming after the military government lifted the curfew in tourist towns while other Southeast ... More here: SE Asia Stocks - Thai index up; tourism stocks gain as curfew ends

Google Maps give travelers option to travel via dragon

MANILA, Philippines – Where have Drogon, Rhaegal, Viserion been all summer? It seems Daenerys Targaryen's dragons have been busy giving travelers a lift as Google Maps recently unveiled yet another Easter Egg . Travelers who search for routes between Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales to South Wales' Brecon Beacons are given the option to travel by ... More here: Google Maps give travelers option to travel via dragon

FMR in OrMin to help boost calamansi farmers’ income (Department of Agriculture of the Republic of the Philippines)

(Source: Department of Agriculture of the Republic of the Philippines) Created on Wednesday, 04 June 2014 Published Date A farm-to-market road (FMR) concreting project in Victoria, Oriental Mindoro undertaken by the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) is expected to help calamansi farmers in the province increase their income through reduced travel time. Bidding for the concreting of 1 ... More here: FMR in OrMin to help boost calamansi farmers’ income (Department of Agriculture of the Republic of the Philippines)

Agoda and #itsmorefunPH roll out deals to mark Independence Day Celebrations

Starting June, Agoda.com will roll out Pinoy Pride deals via the Philippines’ flagship tourism website, itsmorefuninthePhilippines.com. More than 70 hotels located around the country can be booked with discounted rates of up to 40% off. Stay dates validity cover until December 2014. Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Discount from Agoda.com Agoda.com, Asia’s leading accommodation site, and ... More here: Agoda and #itsmorefunPH roll out deals to mark Independence Day Celebrations

Binay wife asks Sandiganbayan for travel permit

The wife of Vice President Jejomar Binay has asked the Sandiganbayan for its permission for her to travel to Hawaii. More here: Binay wife asks Sandiganbayan for travel permit

Travel Corp. unveils management changes

International travel group The Travel Corporation (TTC), with over 25 award-winning brands such as Trafalgar’s Guided Holidays, Insight Vacations, Contiki Holidays, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Red Carnation Hotels, has announced two management changes — the return of Robin Yap as President of The Travel Corporation Asia, and Nick Lim taking on an expanded role at Trafalgar as President ... More here: Travel Corp. unveils management changes

Amadeus rolls out global hotel booking system

Amadeus, a leading technology partner for the global travel industry, announced the rollout of Amadeus Hotels, an integrated hotel distribution marketplace that makes booking easier and faster for travel agencies. Amadeus Hotels is a multisource marketplace that gives travel agencies seamless content from all hotel sources into one format so that bookers can access all their favorite hotels and ... More here: Amadeus rolls out global hotel booking system

Women abducted from Malaysian resort released

Chinese tourist and Filipino worker kidnapped two months ago by suspected Abu Sayyaf fighters freed in Philippines. More here: Women abducted from Malaysian resort released

Kidnapped Chinese, Filippino rescued in Malaysia

A Chinese tourist and a Filippino worker have been rescued nearly two months after they were abducted from a Malaysian dive resort, Prime Minister Najib Razak said. The two women -- Gao Huayun, 29, from China and Marcy Dayawan, 40, from the Philippines -- were kidnapped from the Singamata Reef Resort in Malaysia's Sabah state on April 2 in a late-night raid by gunmen and taken to the southern ... More here: Kidnapped Chinese, Filippino rescued in Malaysia

New claim of ‘no ransom for hostages’ from high-ranking Philippine official

The latest development on the release of two hostages last week has AFP reporting from the Philippines that no ransom was paid after all. The head of the Philippines anti-kidnapping task force in the country's volatile southern region, Agrimero Cruz, was reported as denying an earlier report quoting an unnamed Philippines police official that... More here: New claim of ‘no ransom for hostages’ from high-ranking Philippine official

NAJIB TWISTING THE TRUTH? Several million spent to free Sabah kidnap victims, sources claim

KUALA LUMPUR - A hefty ransom may not have been paid for the release of 29-year-old Chinese tourist Gao Hua Yuan and resort worker Marcy… More here: NAJIB TWISTING THE TRUTH? Several million spent to free Sabah kidnap victims, sources claim

Travel Insurance Premiums: Your Destination Makes a Difference

TRAVEL insurance acts as a buffer of sorts against the risks associated with traveling abroad or domestically. Unfortunately, most people often put off travel insurance as just another big waste of money. More here: Travel Insurance Premiums: Your Destination Makes a Difference

Travel Corp. unveils management changes

International travel group The Travel Corporation (TTC), with over 25 award-winning brands such as Trafalgar’s Guided Holidays, Insight Vacations, Contiki Holidays, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Red Carnation Hotels, has announced two management changes — the return of Robin Yap as President of The Travel Corporation Asia, and Nick Lim taking on an expanded role at Trafalgar as President ... More here: Travel Corp. unveils management changes

Biltmore Joins Hands with Tavisca to Launch B2B Online Travel Trade Management Portal in the ...

PUNE, India - Tavisca Solutions, a leading Travel Technology service provider, has partnered with Biltmore Travel and Tours to design and develop a B2B Online travel booking software, with the aim to offer content along with technology to travel agencies in the Philippines. 'Biltmore Travel & Tours', founded by 4 travel evangelists with 20 years of combined experience in the industry, offers a ... More here: Biltmore Joins Hands with Tavisca to Launch B2B Online Travel Trade Management Portal in the ...

Rescued Filipina worker now in custody of PHL embassy in Malaysia

THE female Filipino worker who was freed recently by alleged Abu Sayyaf abductors is now in the custody of the Philippine Embassy in Malaysia, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday. Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur took over the care of Marcy Dayawan, a Filipina receptionist at the... More here: Rescued Filipina worker now in custody of PHL embassy in Malaysia

Travel Insurance Premiums: Your Destination Makes a Difference

TRAVEL insurance acts as a buffer of sorts against the risks associated with traveling abroad or domestically. Unfortunately, most people often put off travel insurance as just another big waste of money. More here: Travel Insurance Premiums: Your Destination Makes a Difference

‘Yolanda’ recovery gets Canada boost

MANILA, Philippines--Tourist destinations damaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda will receive support in their efforts at recovery through a three-year Canadian government program that seeks to boost local economic activity. Five provinces that suffered setbacks following the Nov. 8 super typhoon are among 10 target areas of the third phase of Canada’s Local Governance Support Program for Local ... More here: ‘Yolanda’ recovery gets Canada boost

Chinese, Filipino kidnapped in Malaysia rescued

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - A Chinese tourist and a Filipino worker have been rescued nearly two months after they were abducted from a resort off Borneo island, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said Friday. Gunmen, believed to be Philippine Abu Sayyaf militants, kidnapped the 28-year-old Shanghai woman and the 40-year-old Filipino woman from the Singamata Reef Resort in the eastern Malaysian ... More here: Chinese, Filipino kidnapped in Malaysia rescued

2 kidnapped women rescued

A Chinese tourist and a Filipino worker have been rescued nearly two months after they were abducted from a Malaysian dive resort, Prime Minister Najib Razak said. More here: 2 kidnapped women rescued