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Philippine president announces 30-day Metro Manila “lockdown”
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte addressed the nation on Thursday night amid the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases and announced Metro Manila “lockdown”. Avoiding using the term “lockdown,” the whole region is placed under community quarantine following raising the response alert level to Code Red, Sub-level 2, which health officials earlier explained to mean "sustained community transmission”. "Community quarantine is hereby imposed in the entirety of Metro Manila. It’s a lockdown. There is no struggle of power here…It’s just a matter of protecting and defending you from COVID-19,” Duterte said. 5 things that will happen during the 30-day period Land, domestic air, and domestic sea travel to and from the capital region will be prohibited for a month from 15 March until 14 April 2020. Class suspension in all levels is extended until 12 April 2020. Train systems- the LRT, MRT lines and PNR- and other forms of mass transportation will remain in operation throughout the quarantine period. But the transportation department will issue guidelines on “social distancing,” a crucial strategy to help prevent COVID-19 from spreading further. Flexible work arrangements are encouraged in the private sector. However, all manufacturing, retail and service establishments shall remain in operation during the same period, provided that strict social distancing measures are observed. Mass gatherings, defined as a planned or spontaneous event, where the number of people attending could strain the planning and response resources of the community hosting the event, shall be prohibited. Even government officials are affected In a matter of days, confirmed COVID-19 cases increased to 52 and 5 deaths. While it is relatively low in comparison with Hubei province in China and in Italy, which were also lockdown, the region is densely populated and Metro Manila lockdown is deemed essential. With more than 12.9 million Filipinos calling Metro Manila their home and 21,000 people in every square kilometre, health officials fear community transmission that will further escalate the numbers. No one is spared in COVID-19. Even some government officials and celebrities were under self-quarantine following contact to a confirmed case. The Philippine Senate was closed for disinfection after a confirmed case visited the building. Every city in the National Capital Region amped up cleaning and disinfecting public spaces. Even huge malls apply rigorous sanitising measures to protect the public. The coronavirus outbreak, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has killed some 4,000 people and infected 110,000 others worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a global pandemic. READ ALSO: My Metro Manila app allows you to explore every nook and cranny of the Philippines’ capital
My Metro Manila app allows you to explore every nook and cranny of the Philippines’ capital
The Philippines’ capital is full of colourful sights, delicious food, and captivating histories and stories. This metropolis is home to the famed Intramuros, drawing in both local and foreign crowds with its history and beauty, while Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, is famous for its authentic Chinese food and old restaurants. But we are far from discovering everything it has to offer, and this is where My Metro Manila app comes in. The app is a powerful tool that condenses everything a traveller should know about Metro Manila in a single app. Created by Explora.ph, it runs with a purpose: making travelling within the city easier, more convenient, and worthwhile. It is equipped to provide a seamless and enhanced tourist experience while in the nation’s capital. Users can do their research, find unique things to do, and book a place to stay inside the app. My Metro Manila App also comes with a real-time messaging feature enabling interaction between its users and DOT-NCR representatives. Travellers can now have a local travel buddy in the app ready to answer queries and make every trip within the city a memorable one. Soon, My Metro Manila will roll out DOT accredited tours and accommodations listings to be included in the app, ready to be booked by its users. These listings are forged by partnerships and cooperation from both DOT and Tourism Related Establishments (TREs). It will soon also include preferred language options to fit everyone. My Metro Manila app makes the capital a more tourist-friendly metropolis by providing comfort, convenience, and information available to every traveller. My Metro Manila is available for downloads on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
ibis Styles Manila Araneta City introduces The Style Curators
ibis Styles Manila Araneta City recently launched a pioneering creative movement in Manila’s City of Firsts: The Style Curators. The programme kicked off on Saturday, 5th July, with Palette & Patterns, a guided painting session held at Le Bistro at Gateway Mall 2. ibis’ first-ever Style Curator, self-taught artist John Salcedo, led the session which highlighted his vibrant work which blends nature, heritage, and community themes. More than just a localised brand programme, this marketing communications initiative is a bold celebration of artistry, community, and self-expression. It’s an initiative where emerging creatives, especially the young and upcoming creative minds with a passion for art, design, and storytelling, can flourish. Empowering a creative new generation The Style Curators series is designed to empower emerging artists across the metro in order to cast the spotlight on the next generation of visionaries. These are those who dare to dream, design, and explore whether it’s through visual arts, multimedia, fashion, or performance. These artists aren’t just creators: they’re changemakers shaping the evolving identity of Manila’s cultural landscape. Initiated in partnership with Studio ArtFix, The Style Curators programme features a rotating series of workshops, artist residencies, exhibitions, and creative labs that offer emerging talents not only a platform but also a community of support. As such, it is a purposeful initiative at its core, empowering individuals whose works are rooted in culture, compassion, and meaningful impact. According to cluster marketing head Erwin Dona III: “The Style Curators program shines a spotlight on Manila’s rising generation of creative leaders: visionaries who are boldly reshaping the city’s rich and diverse art scene, from visual to multimedia to performance art.” Dona added that ibis Styles Manila Araneta Center doesn’t just offer creatives a platform, but also a true creative playground. He explained: “Whether it’s the inviting French charm and refined comfort of Le Bistro, the dynamic pulse of our coworking spaces, or the intimate vibe of our StrEATs private dining rooms, each corner of our space is designed to inspire, spark imagination, and connect to visionary talents. It’s here that bold ideas are born and artistic energy thrives powered by community, collaboration, and style. As our very own property embodies the core DNA of the ibis Styles brand: a home for diverse and free-spirited creators.” Coming up The Style Curators shifts its creative spotlight to Jethro Medina, aka Pintang Gala, with his workshop Strokes & Totes at the strEATs Coworking Café. Medina’s session promises a colorful, hands-on experience where guests will paint their own tote bags under the artist’s guidance. A multi-awarded Filipino artist and founder of both Studio ArtFix and Pintang Galà Studio, Medina is known for blending mixed media, expressive painting, and outreach education to bring art closer to everyday people. His approach invites participants to explore both their creativity and personal narratives in an inclusive, community-driven setting. Next month, renowned calligrapher Gabiee Arboleda will host an elegant Calligraphy Workshop at strEATs Private Dining, while multi-disciplinary artist Nomer Husain will lead a Coffee Painting session at Le Bistro Deli Atelier in September to showcase a unique and aromatic approach to art. October introduces Portraits in Clay with sculptor Ken Sioson comes in October, an engaging tactile workshop on the basics of sculpting expressive busts. The series draws to a grand finale in November with a collaborative Oil Portraiture workshop featuring both Jethro Medina and Nomer Husain that serves as a deep dive into traditional portrait painting techniques in an intimate creative setting. With each event thoughtfully designed to spark self-expression and artistic dialogue, ibis Styles Manila Araneta City invites everyone, especially the modern thinkers seeking creativity, connection, and purpose, to be part of this extraordinary journey. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a fresh way to unwind, The Style Curators offers a beautiful opportunity to learn something new, make meaningful connections, and carry your art with pride.
Okada Manila observes World Hunger Day by donating 20,000 meals
Integrated resort Okada Manila showed its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility through the donation of 20,000 meals to underserved communities across Metro Manila to commemorate World Hunger Day on 28th May. This initiative is part of a broader collaboration with Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Philippines which aims to bring about Zero Hunger and Zero Food Waste by 2030. Since the partnership began in May of last year, Okada Manila has become the first integrated resort in the country to engage in large-scale food rescue as it recovers safe surplus food from its Medley Buffet and banquet operations to give to families in need. The effort has generated significant impact over the past year: Meals served to communities: 20,000 Food rescued and donated: 5,000 kg Communities served: 12 across Metro Manila Carbon emissions reduced: 12,000 kg Okada Manila’s current beneficiaries include Project Pearls Tondo, Hospicio de San Jose, Rivaras Community Pantry, Betterworld Tondo, CM Most Holy Trinity, Barangay Sto. Niño in Parañaque City, BJMP San Mateo Rizal (Male and Female Dorms), Pangarap Foundation, Phase 7 South Fairway (San Pedro, Laguna), Project Marikeños, and WeCarePH in Marikina. No wastage means no one goes hungry According to resort culinary director Josef Teuschler: “Food should never go to waste, especially when hunger is among the world’s pressing problems. Through this programme, we’ve integrated surplus food donation into our daily operations, reducing waste while supporting communities that need it most. It’s a practical, high-impact way to live out our ESG values.” The initiative is also part of the Waste Management pillar of the Okada Green Heart program, which drives environmentally responsible practices across the resort’s operations. In doing so, it contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Okada Manila also supported the SOS Zero Summit 2025, serving as a resource speaker for Surplus Food as a Force for Social and Environmental Good. SOS Philippines general manager Rachel Luna said: “Okada Manila’s strong commitment has helped us reach more communities and expand our food rescue impact. It’s a meaningful partnership built on shared values.” Through consistent action and collaboration, Okada Manila is working to ensure that good food finds its way to those who need it most, one meal at a time.
Philippine authorities on full alert as vacationers make their way back to Manila
Police security operations in the Philippine capital remain in full effect as vacationers return to Manila following the Holy Week holidays. According to Maj Gen Anthony Aberin, chief of the Philippine National Police’s National Capital Region Police Office (PNP-NCRPO), inspections at major air and sea ports as well as bus terminals and railway stations will continue along with staff deployment in key urban areas. He said: "Metro Manila is bracing for a wave of returning travelers. We will be there in the streets to deliver safety and security services to the people.” Aberin pointed out how assistance desks will remain open alongside the heightened presence of visibility patrols and local government forces. In light of the wave of returning travellers, the public has been urged to stay vigilant and cooperative, and should not hesitate to report suspicious individuals and / or activities to established hotlines and aid desks. As of Palm Sunday on 13th April, the PNP placed all its units throughout the Philippines on heightened alert, deploying more than 65,000 uniformed personnel to ensure a safe and peaceful observance of Holy Week.
DOT launches Hop-On-Hop-Off tour for Manila
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the launch of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Philippines Hop-On-Hop-Off (HOHO) in the country's capital introducing Manila's "Cultural Hub" tours on July 6. Joining Secretary Frasco were officials of the City Government of Manila led by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, and tourism stakeholders. Dubbed as “the country’s first ever hop-on, hop-off bus tour program,” the Manila Cultural Hub links it with Makati’s “Financial Hub,” which Secretary Frasco and tourism industry stakeholders launched last 28 May. Speaking before guests, Secretary Frasco said the flagship program elevates the tourism offerings of the country by providing convenience and digitalization saying, “Our President envisions a tourism industry that is able to compete shoulder to shoulder with our neighbors in Asia as well as the rest of the world. And that is why we introduced tourism to the digital age through this Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tours that allows tourists to book through an app, curate their experiences, and travel at their own convenience,” she said. Secretary Frasco expounded on global changing travel trends and the growing desire of travelers for more immersive experiences. “Travel trends continue to change, and it is incumbent upon us in the national government and local government to adapt. It is time for us to evolve and to truly understand the necessity of ensuring that we are not left behind in the post-pandemic world,” she said of the project’s rosy prospects for visitors to explore and experience the different tourism hubs in the urban jungle. “With the launch of the Philippine Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tours here in the City of Manila, we aim to give opportunities to reintroduce Manila to our fellow Filipinos and to introduce foreign tourists to this beautiful gem of a city, to expose them to your heritage, your culture, the arts and most importantly, the story of the City of Manila,” the Tourism Chief added on how the Bus Tours, with its hassle-free, seamless, contactless and convenient option, will play a pivotal role in improving the tourism experience in Manila. “In the life of every nation as in the life of every city, feeding one’s culture is tantamount to feeding one's soul. And that is why through the PH HOHO Bus Tours, we aim to partner with the City of Manila in your vision to make sure that this continues to be the Cultural Hub of Metro Manila,” the Tourism Chief shared about Manila’s wellspring of culture and heritage. Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna cited the importance of developing the City’s cultural aspect of tourism. “Facing the challenges of urban mobility, this will truly maximize any visit in exploring our attractions and experience a Manila that you’ll keep coming back to. The Department of Tourism and the City of Manila curated the attractions to be visited and made sure that this initial run will truly reflect the character of our city. As the HoHo progresses, we will make sure to incorporate other parts of our eight tourism hubs which is the core of our tourism development plan,” the local chief executive added. According to DOT’s National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) Director Sharlene Z. Batin, the Cultural Hub will have nine stops which will round up Robinsons Manila - Raja Sulayman - Rizal Park Luneta - National Museum - Malacañang Heritage Tours-City Hall - Escolta - Binondo – Intramuros. With the launch of the Cultural Hub, tourists can now conveniently and leisurely stroll Manila’s historic and vibrant culturescape one bus stop at a time. They can choose from curated and do-it-yourself itineraries with the option for private and guided tours. Introductory price for the HOHO Manila Cultural Hub tour starts at Php1,000 per person. The Philippines HOHO features a dedicated website with all essential information, a reloadable EMV-capable card, and to complete the tourist experience, a mobile app for booking tours, making cashless payments, GPS networked-bus arrival monitoring and video guides, as well as information on hotels, food, and tourism merchants. Earlier, Secretary Frasco, Mayor Lacuna and Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Margarita Nograles stood as witness to the signing of a certificate of commitment between the City of Manila and leaders of tourism stakeholder associations comprising the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) President Fe Abling-Yu, Philippine Travel Agencies Association President Patria Chiong, Hotel Sales and Marketing Association International President Loleth So, National Association of Independent Travel Agencies President Racquel Sabucido, and Marinel Barquin Lee CEO of Positive Exposure, the project integrator and tech-provider for the Philippines HOHO bus project. In 2022, NCR recorded a total of 5.3 million overnight tourists in NCR, with Manila ranking fourth at 710,275 arrivals, while Makati City ranks one slot higher with 969,927 arrivals, tailing behind Pasay and Parañaque which took the first and second spots, respectively. Meanwhile, Manila tops the same-day arrivals with 7.4M recorded in the same period last year per the DOT’s record.
Best Western Plus Metro Clark relaunches in the Philippines
Best Western Hotels is celebrating the opening of a major extension at Best Western Plus Metro Clark in the Philippines. Situated in the heart of Angeles City, this 14-story hotel has been upgraded and rebranded. Formerly known as Best Western Metro Clark, it now offers a total of 186 contemporary rooms, all equipped with comfortable king or twin beds, modern amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi. Three diverse international dining options are available, including Namari Japanese Bistro, The Legend Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant and Cactus Jack Smokehouse. Guests who want to relax with refreshments and great views of Angeles City can chill out at Jack’s Pool Bar. Travellers can also cool off in the outdoor pool and work out at the fitness center, while the hotel’s extensive event space makes Best Western Plus Metro Clark an outstanding venue for corporate meetings and social gatherings. Best Western Plus Metro Clark is easily accessible, just 10km from Clark International Airport and approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Manila. With a prime position on the McArthur Highway, Angeles City’s main thoroughfare, the hotel is surrounded by attractions including restaurants, bars, shops and casinos. The Saver’s Mall is located right next door. “We are delighted to celebrate the extension and relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark. This was already a popular place to stay in the center of Angeles City. Now, following this important extension, we will be able to attract a wider range of travelers – including business and leisure guests – while also attracting local residents and other visitors to our restaurants. We look forward to welcoming everybody to this newly revitalized hotel,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.
Jetstar Asia adds more weekend services to Bangkok and Manila, retimes Ho Chi Minh City
In August, Jetstar Asia will increase the number of services it operates to Bangkok and Manila, providing customers even more options when visiting two of Southeast Asia’s most popular metropolitan cities. As demand for travel to Manila continues to increase, Jetstar Asia will operate two additional morning services on Sunday and Monday from 1 August to meet the pent-up demand. Jetstar Asia will now operate 13 services a week to the Philippines’ capital with one-way low fares start from just SGD138. From 6 August, Jetstar Asia will operate an additional Saturday morning service between Singapore and Bangkok, increasing its services to eight return services a week. The additional service will help accommodate transiting customers from codeshare partners, Qantas, Emirates, Srilankan Air and Finnair. One-way low fares start from just SGD96. Mr Woo Wai Keong, Jetstar Asia’s Regional Sales Manager for SEA, said it was encouraging to see demand for air travel continue to recover as consumer confidence is restored. “In July, Jetstar Asia’s Load Factor averaged over 90 per cent meaning we are welcoming more passengers on board our flights and are making the world more accessible for our customers again,” Mr. Woo said. “By restoring and growing our short-haul network, we’re helping reconnect families and friends, giving our customers more opportunities to take a well-deserved break, while helping rebuild economies of the communities we fly to.” Starting from 19 August, Jetstar Asia will retime two services between Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, to depart on Friday and Sunday evenings instead of Wednesday and Sunday mornings, allowing customers to make more of their stay. The service also helps customers connect from Qantas, Emirates, Srilankan Air, Finnair and KLM flights. The turnaround return flight from Ho Chi Minh will depart at 10:00pm and arrive in Singapore at 1:00am with one-way low fares start from SGD73. Jetstar Asia currently operates more than 200 flights a week from Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1 to 12 key destinations across Southeast Asia.
Manila sets stage for WTTC Global Summit 2022
The capital of the Philippines, Manila is gearing up to host the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit 2022 from 20-22 April, with the world leaders of travel and tourism in attendance. The theme for year’s Global Summit is REDISCOVERING TRAVEL – the WTTC aims to bring together people from around the world who embrace the same empathy, values and ambitions in solving the many social, environmental and economic challenges. Following last year’s successful event in Cancun, Mexico, the Summit will be hosted in Metro Manila in-person, with a global audience joining virtually. The Summit is one of the most influential travel and tourism events in the calendar, and this year, industry leaders will once again gather with key government representatives to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.
WTTC announces new dates for Global Summit in Manila
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), has announced that its highly anticipated 21st Global Summit will now take place in Manila, Philippines, from 20-22 April 2022 - just a month from its original March date. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “As countries around the world begin to unlock the door to travel, we have taken the decision to reschedule our Global Summit by just a few short weeks. This will enable more international participants to join us in Manila and help guide and lead the sector as we head towards economic recovery. Our Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event in the calendar. We are looking forward seeing our Members, industry leaders and key government representatives gather in Manila in April to continue our efforts in safely restoring international travel.” Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Philippines Department of Tourism Secretary, said: "The WTTC Global Summit will be a significant opportunity for us to showcase the preparations that we have put in place for our eventual reopening to international visitors. Tourism has always provided us with endless opportunities. The reopening of our destinations and borders amid the pandemic is crucial to sustaining the livelihood of the millions who depend on travel and tourism." The Summit will be hosted in Metro Manila in-person, with a global audience joining virtually.
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