WITH the aim of attracting 10 million visitors in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) will harness the potential of both traditional and nontraditional tourist attractions in the country to boost the international profile of the Philippines in its campaign, entitled “Visit the Philippines Year [VPY] 2015.”
“We want to enhance and enrich the experience of the country’s visitors. Furthermore, we want them to experience the warm hospitality of our country through the different occasions,” said Domingo Ramon Enerio III, chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotion Board, during a recent briefing held in Makati City.
Enerio said VPY 2015 will be anchored on five themes—arts and culture; lifestyle and entertainment; travel and adventure; year-round sporting events and business.
“Visitors to the country will not run out of reasons to visit the Philippines as 2015 proves to be an exciting year for the country. From the papal visit in January; Madrid Fusion Manila in April; and MTV Music Evolution in May to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation [Apec] Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit, VPY 2015 will feature an exciting mix of events and activities, as well as the unveiling of more historic treasures, natural wonders and unforgettable adventures. And, of course, its people’s hospitality and optimism make the Philippines the best place to be on the planet this year,” Enerio said.
Enerio said Sinulog, Dinagyang and Ati-atihan are just some of the examples that show the richness of the country’s arts and culture that will create a lasting impression on the visitors. Further, he said, the centuries-old baroque churches, historical museums and various regional arts and craftsmanship will enrich the tourists’ appreciation of the country’s cultural heritage.
In the life and entertainment area, Enerio said the country has a lot to offer, starting with its shopping destinations and active nightlife. For music aficionados, he said the MTV Music Evolution is a must-see, happening during the summer. “There are also the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition,” he said.
The country can offer a lot in natural wonders and biodiversity to enable tourists to commune with nature. He added that the country can give nature lovers the activity they want from surfing, diving and cruising. “World heritage sites, such as the Banaue Rice Terraces and the Palawan Underground River, continue to inspire awe even among jaded travelers,” he said.
As far as sports tourism is concerned, Enerio said tourists will have their schedules full as the country will play host to international events, such as the Iron Man and Xterra triathlons, and the CWC International Wakeboarding Competition. Moreover, he said, there are also local sporting to watch, such as the International Dragon Boat Race in Boracay and the series of marathons and triathlons that have attracted foreign participation. The Philippines is gearing up to host the Apec meeting, where 21 heads of state and 46 ministers, 10,000 economic leaders, support staff and international journalists will be coming into the country.
Meanwhile, the Travel Tour Expo (TTE) 2015 will open at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, from February 13 to 15.
The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) said the TTE 2015 will be bigger as its now occupies the entire SMX exhibition halls with the four halls of the main floor and the five function rooms on the second floor.
With 288 exhibitors spread across 16,230-square-meter -exhibition floor space and 844 exhibition booths, TTE 2015 will, by far, be the biggest in the expo’s 22-year history.
Airlines, hotels, resorts, national tourism organizations, domestic tour operators, travel agencies and other stakeholders in the tourism industry will converge under one roof to showcase their products, destinations and services at amazing discounted rates.
Enerio said the medical tourism sector will be joining TTE 2015, where destinations and medical procedures will be bundled into exciting travel packages.
TTE was conceptualized by the PTAA in 1994 to unite the travel industry and give Filipinos the opportunity to experience seeing their own country and the world, hassle-free. It has since evolved into a much-awaited annual industry event, especially with the introduction of competitive airfares and new destinations in recent years. In February 2014 more than 70,000 visitors came to grab the best travel deals.