Northstar

Something social The Philippines’ tourism campaign has hit the right notes, with the Campaign hashtags managing to narrow in key markets and putting the word across boundaries and regions. The hashtag #itsmorefuninthephilippines has caught on the social media wave, creating a viral effect that goes in well with the television ads that are marketed towards different countries. But being socially aware has also touched on various grounds, aside from the media buzz. Social awareness has paved the way for a targeted group of travellers looking to find meaning in their travels. Taking the lead even before the tourism campaign has managed to get on the social media platform is the eco aspect of tourism that has enticed many to see the wonders of nature that the Philippines has been blessed with. Echoing eco escapades In 1999, the government passed an executive order that has helped to shape the eco-tourism framework in the Philippines. Executive Order: "The State shall develop and promote sustainable tourism while enjoining the participation of the Filipino people in enhancing the growth and competitiveness of the Philippine economy; and, The State shall ensure the sustainable use, development, management, protection and conservation of the country’s environment and natural resources and cultural heritage for the enjoyment of the present and future generations." This has, over the years, built up the collaborative efforts amongst various key destinations, such as Boracay, Cebu, Bohol and Palawan, to name a few, to conserve and put forth eco-tourism to the international market. Among the key activities that travellers can do to have a taste of eco-tourism are birdwatching, swimming with whale sharks in their natural environment, visiting recommended, eco-friendly resorts such as the Miniloc Island Resorts, Bohol Bee Farm and The El Nido, who have subscribed to cautiously carrying out coastal clean-ups to ensure that the environment where they are in do not end up unprotected. On the luxury front, Bluewater Resorts also upholds standard of being an escapade that honours the Bohol island’s natural surroundings, introducing a unique design concept at the same time giving due respect to the pristine waters and marine sanctuaries. Complementing the Bohol culture, the resort’s architecture reflects the eco-infused functionality and elegance of an accommodation provider that focuses on sustainability. Given the vast landscapes and numerous islands that the country boasts of, there is a potential for more growth in the eco-tourism sector. Socially sustainable and economically beneficial, the eco-tourism scene may just continue to echo an even louder messaging to put Philippines on another frontier on the tourism arena. Interconnectedness While infrastructure is still in the works to improve connectivity and travel, a look at metropolitan Manila may give you a glimpse of a booming Asian city on the reform. On one side of the capital you may see the likes of lavish automobiles, while on the other, jeepneys and horse carriages are still a common mode of transportation. On the air travel front, the international airports are located in Cebu, Clark, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Laoag, Manila, Puerto Princesa, and Zamboanga. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1, 2 and 3 in Manila are the premier gateways. They serve more than 30 airlines that fly to different cities around the world. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Lapu-Lapu City handles regular flights from Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Doha and China as well as chartered flights from the United States, and other major travel capitals. Davao International Airport (also known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport) handles flights from Singapore and other chartered flights. The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) at the Clark Special Economic Zone in Angeles City, Pampanga currently services low-cost or budget airlines and chartered flights while Subic in Olongapo City services both chartered and cargo planes. Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte services flights from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. Philippine Airlines (www.philippineairlines.com) the country’s flag carrier, flies to and from 14 cities in eight countries. The younger Cebu Pacific Air (www.cebupacificair.com) also a flag carrier, is known for its budget flights and frequent seat sales. Apart from international flights, major cruise liners also stop at the port of Manila. Fast facts Capital: City of Manila Land area: 300,780 square kilometres Population: 96 Million Average temperature: 78 degrees F/25 degrees C. Average humidity: 77% Currency: Philippine Peso (php) Government: Democratic Republic Head of state: President Religion: Predominantly Catholic. Muslim, Christian, Buddhist. Electricity: 220 volts, A.C. 60 cycles. Most hotels have 110-volt outlets. Water: Metropolitan Manila and many key cities and towns have ample supply of water. Bottled water is recommended for drinking purposes and is available pretty much anywhere.

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