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DOT, TIEZA, CHED collaborate to use HEDF to boost tourism-related courses
The Department of Tourism (DOT), its infrastructure arm, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), signed a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) that establishes guidelines to ensure efficient and proper execution of the laws, and transparency in the utilization of the Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF). The ceremonial signing was led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Assistant Chief Operating Officer Karen Mae Sarinas-Baydo representing TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid, and CHED Chairperson J. Prospero De Vera III held at the National Museum of Natural History in the City of Manila. Under Section 10 of Republic Act 7722 or the Higher Education Act of 1994, the law states that the continuing government’s contribution to the HEDF shall be taken from the 40% annual share on the total gross collections of the travel tax; 30% annual share of the collections from the Professional Registration Fee; and 1% of the gross sale of the lotto operation of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Further, Section 73 of the Republic Act 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009, states that the contribution to the HEDF equivalent to forty percent (40%) from the total gross collections of the travel tax shall be retained, provided that tourism-related educational programs and courses is given priority by the CHED. The newly signed JAO outlines how these funds will be utilized to advance tourism education and development. Priority areas for funding include: the construction, or improvement of facilities and/or demo labs for tourism and hospitality-related courses including the purchase of industry-grade equipment to support the facility; funding for industry immersion program and career development for teachers and students; support for technology innovations or digitalization in tourism and hospitality programs; support for start-up/incubation centers on tourism and hospitality; research and development for enhancement of tourism-related programs and courses; and support to tourism education-related programs and education tourism programs to be implemented in partnership with the DOT and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). In her speech during the ceremonial signing of the JAO, Secretary Frasco emphasized that, under the Marcos Administration, the mandate of the DOT is not just to promote but to develop tourism. The tourism chief also reflected on the early steps taken to make the convergence effort possible. “At the onset of the Marcos Administration, when I was newly appointed Secretary as early as August of 2022, I wrote a formal communication to chair De Vera of CHED to request a utilization report of the funding that they had received from TIEZA and to determine whether the funds were used for tourism education. This conversation has stood for a couple of years, and it has since seen fruition with the signing of the Joint Administrative Order today. It is our sincere hope that by way of instituting, clear, fair, as well as stakeholder-driven programs under the JAO, the funds that our fellow Filipinos pay in travel taxes are devoted in full to education programs that will further expand opportunities for young people to join the tourism industry and expand economic opportunities from our local destinations, who will inevitably benefit from a tourism workforce that is well educated, well capacitated and world-class in terms of skills,” she said. As a former educator herself, who once taught international law before being hand-picked as secretary of tourism, the tourism chief said she felt a “deep sense of joy and gratitude” in the signing of the JAO. “The investment that our national government is making in our students underscores the seriousness of the Marcos administration's commitment to tourism education. This extends beyond new scholarships, for it encompasses groundbreaking research, targeted faculty development, and collaborative educational programs that directly align with the evolving demands of the global tourism landscape. With meaningful engagement with our stakeholders, particularly in the private sector, it is critical to bridge gaps. And so, we fully intend to have a continuous conversation with the private sector to ensure that tourism education is always up to date with local trends, and can increase the effectiveness of our tourism workers,” she noted. CHED Chairperson De Vera lauded the leadership of Secretary Frasco for being proactive in working alongside the institution to elevate the quality of education in the country. He said it was only during this administration that CHED and DOT sat down together for talks which translated into the JAO on the guidelines on the utilization of HEDF. “I was talking to Secretary Frasco earlier, and she said, ‘This is history’ because, for the first time, the three agencies are talking to each other seriously. They tried in the past to reach out, but it never got very far. So, I thank Secretary Frasco and TIEZA for agreeing to sit down and put together a system that will ensure transparency and accountability,” he said. “Now that we have clear guidelines and basis to provide support for higher education institutions, for the establishment of their facilities, the modernization of the equipment, the improvement of their curriculum, the development of their resources, we can now say that we can continue to produce graduates that match the standards and demands of the tourism and hospitality industry here and all over the world. We will also be able to provide more grants for research and development for the enhancement of tourism-related programs and courses. We can send more faculty members to top tourism universities and institutions abroad for upskilling and reskilling programs as instructed by the President so that our faculty members are addressed and upskilled as far as tourism promotion is concerned,” he noted. He added that with the signing of the JAO, more tourism and hospitality development programs will be prioritized in the future. For their part, TIEZA Assistant Chief Operating Officer (COO) Karen Mae Sarinas-Baydo, shared that over the past 10 years, the DOT’s infrastructure arm has remitted PHP17.3 billion to CHED. “Our combined efforts will ensure that every peso from the Travel Tax goes to funding innovative programs while creating industry-immersion opportunities and capacity-building initiatives to develop future tourism professionals and leaders. So, by prioritizing tourism education, we are investing in our nation's most valuable asset, its people, and setting a solid foundation for the sustainable growth and the future of Philippine tourism,” she said. Delivering a statement of support at the event, Baguio City Representative Mark Go, chairperson of the House Committee on Higher Education, described the ceremony as more than just a formal act but a commitment to an impactful utilization of higher education. “This one represents our dedication to investing in quality education, fostering innovation, and supporting research, and ensuring that our students, faculty, and institutions have the necessary resources to excel. It's a symbol of our unwavering belief and commitment that education is the key to national development and global competitiveness. With this agreement, we reinforce principles of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing the fund. We ensure that every message directed to our programs and initiatives that will uplift the quality of higher education address rising challenges, particularly of the tourism industry and open new opportunities for learners across the country,” he said.
STB, Changi Airport Group and Sentosa collaborate to boost marketing in India
To further elevate Singapore’s presence in India, theSingapore Tourism Board (STB), Changi Airport Group (CAG), and Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) have announced a year-long partnership, marking their first-ever tripartite collaboration focused on the Indian market. This partnership will run from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, and is established to amplify Singapore’s brand visibility, foster deeper engagement with India’s travel trade, and boost awareness of drive excitement around Sentosa’s wide range of offerings and enhance Singapore’s positioning as a global aviation hub. The collaboration will focus on introducing refreshed experiences in Singapore, with a special emphasis on targeting higher-yield Indian travellers. It will also include the Friends of Singapore Fellowship (FOSF) programme, which will bring 30 influential Indian digital content creators to Singapore. These influencers will create engaging, shareable content that highlights curated experiences across Singapore, including Sentosa Island, and Changi Airport, to shape a refreshed and exciting image of Singapore in the eyes of Indian consumers. Juliana Kua, Assistant Chief Executive, International Group, Singapore Tourism Board said: “Building on the success of our roadshows and the strong interest from the Indian market, this tripartite partnership with Changi Airport Group and Sentosa Development Corporation will help us drive deeper engagement and create memorable experiences for Indian travellers. It reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening the ties between Singapore and India, while presenting new opportunities for the travel trade to explore and share.” Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President, Air Hub and Cargo Development, Changi Airport Group said: “India is an important market to Changi Airport. With as many as 17 city links between Singapore and India, Changi Airport is the most connected hub to India within Southeast Asia. Together with STB and SDC, we aim to provide travellers with exceptional experiences from their first touchpoint at Changi Airport to the many places of interest in our exciting city.” Michael Ma, Assistant Chief Executive (Business & Digital Technology Group), Sentosa Development Corporation said: “Sentosa remains a strong draw for our Indian travellers, and to further enhance our attractiveness, Sentosa will open a range of new experiences this year. They include the newly opened Illumination’s Minion Land and the iconic Raffles Sentosa Singapore, which we hope to inspire guests to create new moments and memories on Sentosa. The iconic Sentosa Sensoryscape also recently celebrated its first anniversary, with the additional of a new augmented reality feature – a mystical island guardian that entices guests on an enchanting journey of discovery. We look forward to welcoming our Indian friends to Sentosa’s sunny shores soon.” 2025: A Milestone Year for India-Singapore Relations This collaboration coincides with a momentous milestone year, as 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. To celebrate, STB has launched the Just Between Us Friends programme, offering exclusive deals and discounts for Indian travellers who flash their passports at iconic Singaporean retailers like Jewel Changi Airport, ION Orchard, Paragon and Capitaland malls, as well as offers through Changi Airport Group and Singapore Airlines. Indian travellers can also redeem a sweet treat when they visit Sentosa, and Disney-themed surprises at Mustafa Centre. This initiative aims to deepen connections with Indian tourists and entice them to explore more of Singapore during their visit. Record-Breaking B2B Roadshow The announcement of this tripartite comes on the heels of STB’s biggest B2B roadshow to date, which took place across Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru. The event saw 63 exhibitors, a notable increase from last year’s 50, including hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and destination management companies. The roadshow, which drew over 700 travel professionals in attendance across three cities, underscored the growing interest in Singapore as a leading holiday destination among Indian consumers. With 1.2 million visitors from India in 2024, a nearly 12% increase from the previous year, Singapore is well-positioned to capture an even larger share of India’s outbound tourism market. The roadshow also saw STB’s debut in Chandigarh as part of its effort to expand its reach beyond India’s metropolitan hubs. The Union Territory has emerged as a growing source of potential travel growth, especially with a rising number of Chandigarh-based travellers seeking short-haul holidays and new overseas experiences. “This event has energised us about the destination’s appeal and array of offerings for our customers, and has reinforced our commitment to promoting Singapore itineraries,” said Gagandeep Singh, Assistant General Manager, Antilog Vacations, Chandigarh. As STB continues its strong push to boost its marketing and build deeper trade connections with India, this tripartite partnership signals STB's strong focus and emphasis on India as a key source market for Singapore’s tourism. It highlights STB’s continued commitment to boosting its marketing efforts and building deeper trade connections with India.
Tourism Authority of Thailand raises the bar for luxury tourism by collaborating with Louis Vuitton
The Paris office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) collaborated with Louis Vuitton to launch the Louis Vuitton City Guide Bangkok 2025. The luxury tourist guide was formally launched on Tuesday, 18th February, at the Maison de Famille de Louis Vuitton in Asnières-sur-Seine, France. This refined travel guide offers an exclusive and stylish perspective on Bangkok’s finest experiences. As part of the internationally renowned Louis Vuitton City Guide collection, this latest edition showcases the city’s unique blend of luxury, culture, and modern vibrancy. To celebrate this prestigious launch, TAT Paris and Louis Vuitton hosted an exclusive gathering attended by leading travel executives, airline representatives, and tourism influencers. The event was held at Louis Vuitton’s historic family home, a venue that embodies the brand’s craftsmanship and heritage. At the event, TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated in her remarks: “This partnership is a key initiative for the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025. By aligning with Louis Vuitton, Thailand continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination for discerning travellers seeking exclusive, immersive, and culturally rich experiences.” The Louis Vuitton City Guide Bangkok 2025 is now available worldwide in Louis Vuitton stores and online. A luxurious way to experience Bangkok During the launch, the Louis Vuitton City Guide Bangkok 2025 was unveiled in keeping with the 5 Must-Do in Thailand initiative. This special edition invites travellers to discover Bangkok through five curated experiences: must-see iconic landmarks, must-seek hidden gems and cultural sites, must-try unique experiences, must-taste Thai gastronomy, and must-buy artisanal souvenirs and handicrafts. Guests experienced Thailand’s rich artistic and cultural heritage through live demonstrations and performances. Traditional Thai dance and performing arts took centre stage, with a Khon performance of Hanuman and Suvannamaccha. Thai craftsmanship was showcased through intricate palm leaf fish weaving and an exclusive display of handcrafted souvenirs. The culinary arts were highlighted with the preparation of Khanom Dara Thong, while cultural performances included Muay Thai, Nuad Thai massage, the Nora dance, and Serng Kapo. The event concluded with a musical fusion of East and West, blending traditional Thai instruments such as the Krajappi and Saw Duang with piano and violin compositions.
Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel expands collaboration with Malaysia
In a strategic initiative to boost travel to Sabah (Malaysia) from the high-potential India market, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s premier omnichannel travel services provider, and its group company, SOTC Travel, have signed an agreement with Sabah Tourism Board. This strategic collaboration will ensure focus on growing Sabah's visibility and inspiring visitation from the India market. The MOU was signed by Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head at Thomas Cook (India) Limited and Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer at Sabah Tourism Board, in the esteemed presence of Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General, Tourism Malaysia. Sabah, with its multiple UNESCO Geoparks and Reserves, majestic Mount Kinabalu (S.E Asia's highest peak) and Sipadan Island, represents not just one of the world’s top diving sites but also exciting white water rafting, ziplining and abseiling experiences. The state is famed for its diverse ecosystems, home to the endangered Bornean orangutan, the proboscis monkey and the Borneo pygmy elephant and rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. Sabah's natural wonders and attractions make it a must-visit destination for travellers. This multi-pronged collaboration will focus on destination knowledge, curating inspiring content, education, training and familiarization programs and joint marketing to position Sabah as a top-of-mind destination across India’s metro, mini-metro, and Tier 2 and 3 markets. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, said, “We are delighted to be selected by Sabah Tourism’s as their first partner for the Indian sub-continent. Our MOU signing on January 31, 2025 at OTM, Mumbai, heralds the start of what I am confident will be a vibrant and viable collaboration. Sabah is a destination known for its diversity of adventure, relaxation, cultural exploration and unique natural experiences – and holds strong appeal across India’s new-age traveller segments. He added, “The Thomas Cook India Group has been at the forefront of introducing attractive new destinations/experiences to the India market and this initiative reiterates our innovation and leadership.” S.D. Nandakumar - President & Country Head - Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel Limited, said,” Sabah is a beautiful destination with breathtaking landscapes, adventure opportunities and rich cultural heritage. We are thrilled to collaborate with the tourism board to introduce our Indian travellers to Sabah’s diverse experiences. Our MOU with Sabah Tourism Board hence aims to showcase the state's engaging and enriching experiences – to India’s families/multigenerational families, Young India’s Millennials/Gen Z, couples, ad-hoc groups of friends/colleagues and our powerful corporate MICE segment.” Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board, said, “Our strategic collaboration with Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel marks a significant milestone in our effort to tap into the vast Indian market. With India being a high-potential growth market, this collaboration between STB, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel will help to position Sabah, North Borneo as a must-visit destination. Sabah is a rich haven of Culture, Nature, and Adventure, and we are excited to showcase these unique offerings to Indian travellers, including leisure seekers and business event groups.”
IATA and 123Carbon collaborate on interoperability for SAF
Representative Image The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and 123Carbon announced a strategic collaboration to develop interoperability between their respective Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) registries. Interoperability will increase transparency, avoid emissions reporting errors—including double issuance—and streamline certificate management across SAF registries. “User trust is essential. The transparency that comes with interoperability will ensure that our registries can function cohesively to maximize SAF’s potential to support aviation’s decarbonization. The broader the alignment among registry providers, the better. We welcome all entities active in this field to work with IATA and 123Carbon towards global interoperability between all registries,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President Sustainability and Chief Economist. “123Carbon is committed to establishing integrity and trust in the market for Environmental Attribute Certificates (EACs) within multi-modal transportation (e.g. air, sea, road & rail). With IATA, we have found a strong partner in the aviation sector that shares our beliefs. This collaboration allows SAF providers, airlines, freight forwarders, and corporate entities to utilize our platforms without the concern of double issuance, whilst managing their SAF certificates digitally on our platform,” said Jeroen van Heiningen, Managing Director, 123Carbon. The collaboration between IATA and 123Carbon will focus on three key elements: 1. A unique identifier and alignment of the relevant data points to exchange between registries. 2. A process for the exchange of information to avoid any potential double issuance. 3. A dispute resolution process. IATA and 123Carbon will seek engagement with other SAF stakeholders to join this initiative to deepen the interaction between registries.
Cathay Pacific announces collaboration with Mott 32
Cathay Pacific announced a gastronomic partnership with leading global restaurant brand Mott 32 today, 6th February. The partnership will deliver an exquisite dining experience to passengers staying at The Pier, the first-class lounge at Cathay Pacific’s home hub Hong Kong International Airport. This collaboration exemplifies Cathay Pacific’s commitment to providing customers with an unmatched level of service and hospitality, not just in the air but also on the ground, as it sets sights on becoming the world’s best premium airline. Cathay general manager for customer experience and design Vivian Lo said of the partnership: “As a world-renowned fine-dining establishment, Mott 32 is deservedly celebrated for its innovative approach and dedication to true Chinese flavours. This deeply resonates with our commitment to pursuing quality and service excellence at Cathay, and offering our customers a truly memorable dining experience by partnering with premium, award-winning brands that share our values.” Lo added that the collaboration also reflects their shared roots in Hong Kong as well as a similar passion for delivering a culinary experience that not only delights the palate, but also enriches customers’ journeys even before they set off for their next destinations. She said: Our home city’s rich heritage and culinary vibrancy are front and centre in the dishes and drinks we serve, highlighting the diverse flavours and traditions that make Hong Kong unique.” For his part, Mott 32 co-founder Malcolm Wood expressed his delight at the partnership, seeing it as an opportunity to work with a Hong Kong icon by bringing the restaurant’s authentic Chinese cuisine to The Pier. Wood said: “This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to showcasing the vibrant flavours and traditions of our home city. Together, Mott 32 and Cathay Pacific are proud to share the essence of Hong Kong with travellers from across the globe, elevating their journey with an unforgettable taste of its culture and cuisine.” Mott 32 co-founder Xuan Mu added: “For this partnership, we’ve carefully crafted a menu that reflects the essence of Mott 32 while tailoring it specifically for Cathay Pacific’s discerning guests. Featuring signature favourites like our crispy crab meat puff and Sichuan-style dumplings, alongside new creations inspired by Hong Kong’s culinary diversity, each dish has been reimagined to suit the elegant lounge setting. We focused on delivering an authentic yet innovative experience that embodies the harmony of traditional techniques and contemporary flavours, just as Mott 32 has always done.” Exquisite flavours expertly crafted The thoughtfully crafted tasting menus have been introduced and are now on rotation alongside The Pier’s monthly ala carte menus, featuring Mott 32’s iconic dishes reimagined for the lounge setting. Embracing seasonality, variation and a sense of balance, the dishes offer a sophisticated taste of contemporary Chinese cuisine that honours the rich culinary heritage of the airline’s home city, Hong Kong. Customers can look forward to an amuse bouche of crispy mushrooms with green beans and sesame, chilled tofu with roasted green chilli sauce, or crispy crab puff. Each dish masterfully creates an irresistible fusion of textures and flavours, setting the perfect stage for what is to follow. A touch of authentic regional tastes A tantalising selection of starters has been crafted to showcase the bold and invigorating flavours of Sichuan cuisine. The free-range chicken with Sichuan peppercorn and chilli sauce features delicate, tender chicken, heightened by the unique numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns and the zesty kick of chilli sauce. Just as enticing are the hand-wrapped Sichuan pork dumplings with chilli sauce,, which are filled with savoury minced pork and enveloped with rich, fragrant chilli oil. This mainstay of Sichuan cuisine delivers a comforting balance of spice and umami to make each bite as satisfying as the last. The free-range chicken with black truffle and coriander presents an elegant balance of flavours, where earthy notes of the black truffle dressing enhance the succulent chicken, and the fresh coriander adds a bright, herbaceous touch. Mains made magnificent For the main course, the braised wagyu beef with aged tangerine peel features melt-in-your-mouth beef to enhance its rich, savoury flavours. The unique tangerine peel sauce adds a refreshing citrusy kick to the dish, enriched by hints of chilli and the aromatic essence of tangerine. Mott 32’s innovative spirit shines through as it blends traditional Chinese cooking techniques with modern culinary artistry. Meanwhile, the crispy black cod with golden garlic and chilli is infused with robust notes of deep-fried garlic and a hint of red chilli, with a golden crust encasing its tender and flaky interior. Paying homage to the traditional typhoon shelter cooking style, the dish embodies the community spirit of local fishermen in a symphony of savoury and spicy aromatics. The pan-fried prawn with pickled ginger and chilli bean paste is a treat for seafood lovers. The dish showcases tender and succulent prawns, complemented by zesty pickled ginger and a rich fermented chilli bean paste in a harmonious blend of savoury, sweet and spicy flavours. A sip of Hong Kong To further elevate the gastronomic experience, customers are treated to a specially crafted aperitif that celebrates the vibrancy of Hong Kong. A twist on one of the most popular drinks in the airline’s home city, the Hong Kong Iced Tea is a refreshing concoction of tea and blackcurrant, finished with a kick of tequila and mellowed by Lillet Blanc. The use of basil seeds, inspired by the tapioca balls in Taiwanese bubble tea, offers a more sophisticated and healthier alternative.
Cunard set to celebrate 185 years of ocean travel with its collaborative “Sea of Glamour”
As it marks 185 years of ocean travel, Cunard is calling on the public to help preserve precious moments in Sea of Glamour, a new physical exhibition curated by renowned British photographer Mary McCartney. The cruise line invites guests, employees, and celebrities to share their unforgettable images from on board its ships. These contributions will form part of the exhibition, which makes its debut at Liverpool's famous Liver Building in May of this year. Cunard president Katie McAlister emphasised the importance of this initiative: "For 185 years, our ships have been at the heart of unforgettable moments for millions of guests and crew. This is a chance to celebrate those memories and the stories they tell. By sharing your experiences, you'll help Mary McCartney create something truly unique: an exhibition that brings Cunard's incredible history to life for everyone to enjoy." Encompassing nearly two centuries at sea The exhibition will feature a stunning collection of photos of Hollywood icons, musicians, politicians, and royalty from the Cunard archives, alongside newly curated images from the public to form a timeline of iconic moments that will immerse visitors in the magic of nearly two centuries of transatlantic travel. Mary McCartney will take the final photograph for the exhibition herself, capturing a portrait of Queen Anne's Icons in Liverpool on the day it opens. This unique image will offer a fresh, captivating perspective on Cunard's iconic link to Liverpool. That said, the Sea of Glamour will become a global exhibition, set to travel the world on board the Cunard fleet to celebrate the 185th Anniversary.
Boracay MICE Alliance presents the Great Boracay Getaway
The Boracay MICE Alliance (BMA) is currently running its Great Boracay Getaway campaign which offers up to 75 percent discounts in tour packages, hotels, and dining outlets. The BMA is composed of leading private-sector tourism stakeholders on the island, who aim to position Boracay as a premier hub for MICE. The campaign is meant to entice more tourists to explore what the Alliance describes as a refreshed and reinvigorated Boracay. The Great Boracay Getaway kicked off on 15th January and runs until 15th February, featuring more than a hundred exclusive packages from nearly 30 top-tier properties on the island. The packages come with non-expiring vouchers, giving travelers the freedom to book at their convenience. A brighter, better Boracay The island destination underwent a comprehensive overhaul for six months, along with extensive renovations throughout the pandemic years. According to BMA chair Cleofe Albiso: “Travelers can look forward to a destination that offers endless water activities, vibrant culinary offerings, and the most pristine beaches. There’s much to choose from—and we want the world to know just how excited we are to welcome them back.” The BMA hopes that this initiative will encourage longer stays as more than a thousand vouchers will be made available to allow tourists to curate their own Boracay trip. Some participating establishments also offer exclusive door-to-door travel packages, beachfront room deals, island-hopping activities, and spa and massage vouchers. Participating brands for the campaign include Almon Ink Tattoo, Altabriza Resort Boracay, Alta Vista, Aria Cucina Italiana, Azalea Hotels, B and C, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Boracay Adventures, Boracay Amor Apartments, Boracay Beach Truck, Boracay Grace, Boracay Haven Resort, Boracay Haven Suites, Boracay Newcoast properties, Cafe del Sol, Crimson Boracay, Grand Blue, Hama Japanese Cuisine, Mega Paraw, My Boracay Guide, New Lounge, Ondus, Purple Diaries, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Shore Time Condotel, Shore Time Hotel, and Viaje.
Boracay welcomes its first cruise passengers for 2025
The Philippine resort island of Boracay welcomed its first cruise tourists for 2025 on Monday, 13th January. Guests arrived aboard AIDA Cruises’ Italian-flagged AIDAstella. At least 2,019 guests out of the 3,120 passengers and crew aboard disembarked from the ship to experience the beauty of Boracay's white-sand beaches. A representative of the Department of Tourism remarked: “For nine unforgettable hours they embraced the island’s charm, exploring its pristine white-sand beaches, swimming in its turquoise waters, and immersing themselves in its vibrant culture – all despite the gentle blessing of rain that added a touch of magic to their adventure.” A special highlight of the visit was the formal plaque exchange ceremony between DOT officials and the ship’s captain, showcasing the Philippines' warm hospitality. Afterwards, the AIDAstella sailed to Coron, Palawan. The post-pandemic return of cruise ships, carrying loads of visiting tourists to the Philippines, started during the first half of 2023. In order to attract this booming market, the Philippine government launched last year the cruise visa waiver program, which simplifies entry for international cruise passengers.
Vietnam and Thailand hold discussions on tourism collaboration
Officials from Vietnam and Thailand are working on tourism collaboration in light of the Six Countries, One Destination initiative. A working session between the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding tourism collaboration was held last 3rd January at the latter’s satellite office in Hanoi. The groundbreaking proposal is expected to result in simplified visa operations and seamless travel throughout Southeast Asia. The discussion was led by Vietnamese deputy minister of culture, sports, and tourism Ho An Phong and Thai foreign affairs advisor Dusit Manapan. The session revolved around enhancing tourism collaboration among six ASEAN member countries: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Likewise, the initiative also seeks to redefine regional tourism and boost economic cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand. Simplifying immigration During the session, Manapan pointed out how the initiative seeks to make travel easier among participating nations through simplified immigration procedures, including exploring the possibility of a shared visa system modelled after the European Union’s Schengen Visa. This common visa would allow tourists to visit multiple countries within the ASEAN bloc seamlessly. The initiative also envisions fast-track immigration lanes, enhanced business networks and coordinated promotional campaigns to position the six nations as a unified destination. Manapan added that such tourism collaboration may significantly boost tourist exchanges within ASEAN while attracting international travellers from key markets such as the United States, Europe, as well as South Asia. He further cited the potential to enrich tourists’ experiences by offering diverse and interconnected travel opportunities across six culturally-rich nations. As visa policies need to be given ample attention, Phong emphasised Vietnam’s commitment to creating favourable conditions for international tourists by maintaining an open and liberal visa policy. The country is actively researching potential markets to expand its list of countries eligible for unilateral and bilateral visa exemptions. This effort aligns with the goals of the Six Countries, One Destination initiative, where simplified visa procedures are expected to play a pivotal role in attracting global tourists. The need for joint efforts For his part, Phong voiced his country’s support of the initiative with regard to its alignment with ASEAN’s key goal of cooperation in culture, sports and tourism. The deputy minister emphasised that joint initiatives are necessary to create new tourism products that leverage the unique strengths of both Thailand and Vietnam Phong also proposed collaborative participation in trade fairs, promotional events, and tourism exhibitions hosted in each country. These efforts would have the dual benefit of fostering tourist exchanges whilst attracting investments and business partnerships. The discussion also touched on the importance of developing tourism workers in which Vietnam needs Thailand’s support with regard to training its tourism and hospitality workforce. Along these lines, proposals involved the provision of scholarships for short and long-term programmes, the organisation of training workshops, as well as potential agreements between educational institutions.
Movenpick Boracay
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, Aklan, Philippines Philippines
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The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and Singapore Industrial Automation Association (SIAA) are hosting the upcoming
AVIAREPS APAC Virtual Expo 2022 (AAVE)
The AAVE2022 edition gathers quality buyers from an additional 4 countries on top of the 7 existing countries seen in the 2021 edition. Powering the virtual event this year is our AI-matchmaking technology with a strong focus in matching your business needs with the right target segment and audience, ensuring your return of investment, all at the comfort of everyone’s choice of locations. Join our AVIAREPS APAC Virtual Expo 2022 (AAVE) as one of many exhibitors to raise awareness, connect with new partners and customers and strengthen existing relationships.