Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – After being sidelined for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sarangani Bay (SarBay) Festival made a soft come back albeit in a toned-down environmental initiative to help preserve the bay’s fragile ecosystem.
Crown of Thorns collection at Sarangani Bay
Regarded as the biggest beach party in the archipelago with various sporting and wellness events and over 100,000 visitors, the fest highlighted the underwater collection of crown of thorns (COT), which prey on the coral reefs in Sarangani Bay, one of the country’s most biodiversity-rich protected seascapes.
Volunteers scuba divers from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units of Sarangani Province, and the Philippine National Police led the four-day environmental effort, where they were able to collect some 47,000 COTs in the beach resort towns of Maasim and Glan in Sarangani.
Crown of Thorns collection at Sarangani Bay
Dubbed as Wake Up Sarbay, the scaled-down festivities also featured the SarBay Sea-kad Bike and Plant ride where cyclists pedaled from the provincial capitol complex in Alabel town to the mangrove forest in Malapatan and Mt Sabrina Resort in Glan.
Moreover, the Department of Tourism Region 12 also launched its Dive Sox program to promote the Soccsksargen Region as an alternative dive spot in southern Mindanao. The current dive haven in the region is Maasim town because of the presence of the Lemlunay Resort, the only dive center in Sarangani.
Bike and Plant participants at Provincial Capitol
The DOT dive program aims to expand the dive areas to Glan, which launched its own program last year, and to the coastal municipalities of Sultan Kudarat province.
Wake Up Sarbay drew to a close with a Touch Mobile-sponsored evening concert at the famed Gumasa white beach featuring Daybreak band and Kakang of Virgu.
Counting collected Crown of Thorns
Named in 1996 by Presidential Proclamation 756 as a Protected Seascape, Sarangani Bay’s coral resources cover more than 2,293 hectares spread over 20 areas with about 60 important live hard coral genera, 411 reef species in 46 families. Its seagrass cover is placed at 912 hectares, with 11 species.
Diver injecting Crown of Thorns
Marine mammal species, which include spinner dolphins, risso’s dolphins, and dugong or sea cow, are often sighted which attests to the bay’s healthy marine life.
The bay has been experiencing occasional outbreaks of COTs over the past few years due to the loss of its natural predators such as the Triton trumpet, Napoleon wrasse, white-spotted pufferfish, and titan triggerfish which keep its population in check.
Mangrove planting in Malapatan
The rise in sea surface temperature due to climate change and deterioration of water quality also contribute to the growth of COTs across various bodies of water across the country.
Fly Easy to Bali, Bangkok, Dubai, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney, and Vietnam via CEB
Filipinos are raring to travel abroad again to see the sights they missed in the last couple of years. Many are also excited to reunite with family and friends.
Whatever one’s reasons may be, Cebu Pacific (CEB) is ready to fly passengers safely to their desired destinations as travel restrictions have eased in some countries for leisure travelers. Coming home is easier now as the Philippine government has also simplified travel for returning Filipinos and foreign tourists alike.
In April, the local airline resumed flights to Jakarta, and Hanoi, bringing the number of international routes to 16 as part of its plan to ramp up flights by July.
CEB also currently flies to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Seoul (Incheon), Nagoya, Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, and Guangzhou, among many other destinations.
“We are happy to enable everyJuan to safely fly across our network. We hope to continue contributing to the economic and tourism agenda in and out of the Philippines,” Xander Lao, CEB chief commercial officer, said in a recent press conference held at the WTTC Global Summit.
Effective May 30, travelers flying to the Philippines who have received the two-dose series or single-dose vaccine (Janssen), and at least 1 booster shot, are no longer required to present COVID-19 test results for entry, according to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID). However, those without booster shots will still need to show their negative test results prior to boarding (RT-PCR test taken 48 hours before departure or antigen test taken 24 hours before departure).
“We laud the efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and IATF-EID for enabling ways to further simplify travel requirements and making it easier for travelers to fly back home or visit the Philippines,” added Lao.
If you’re planning an international trip soon, here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
A bustling city with wildlife: Sydney
Australia is known for its unique animals, which you can see up close at the Wild Life Sydney Zoo, Sea Life Aquarium, and other wildlife parks. During the day, you can walk around the city or get a tan at Bondi Beach. At night, watch a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House.
Sydney flights from Manila are slated in July, with a thrice-weekly frequency, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Travel requirements: Travelers must have a valid tourist visa. Upon check-in, passengers must present a vaccination certificate, and proof of completed Digital Passenger Declaration (DPD) submitted up to 72 hours before departure. Travelers will undergo a Rapid Antigen test upon arriving at their hotel.
Shop ‘til you drop: Singapore
Singapore makes every shopaholic’s dream come true with its numerous shopping malls and outdoor markets – whether you are looking for local delicacies, luxury brands, or souvenirs – Singapore’s got it all for you. Visitors can explore Orchard Road, Chinatown, Little India, Bugis Street Market, and even Hajji Lane for its boutiques and vintage stores.
Singapore Flights via Cebu Pacific
CEB currently flies once daily from Manila to Singapore.
Travel requirements: Fully vaccinated guests are no longer required to submit a pre-departure COVID 19 test. They must also present their proof of full vaccination, and fill out aSingapore Arrival cardthree (3) days before arrival. For more information, passengers may refer to thislink.
A burst of Thai flavors: Bangkok
Apart from the busy streets and energetic nightlife, Bangkok also has a plethora of food stalls. Familiarize yourself with different Thai dishes like Raan Jay Fai’s world-famous crab omelet, a hearty bowl of beef noodles from Wattana Panich, and yummy pad thai from Thipsamai. These are perfect to cap off a long day of exploring bustling Bangkok.
Fly to Bangkok with Cebu Pacific
CEB flies 5x weekly from Manila to Bangkok, Thailand, every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Travel requirements: Fully vaccinated guests are no longer required to submit a pre-departure COVID 19 test. They must present their proof of full vaccination along with their valid ID and COVID-19 insurance. These must all be uploaded online when the passenger registers for theirThailand Pass.
An RT-PCR test is required for unvaccinated / partially vaccinated passengers, along with a confirmed hotel booking with a hotel transfer for their required quarantine.
A tour of history: Hanoi and Saigon
If you’re looking for a cultural adventure, Vietnam is the place to be. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the country has beautiful sites like Thang Long Imperial Citadel, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Temple of Literature built in honor of the philosopher Confucius – both located in Hanoi.
Visit Hanoi Vietnam via Cebu Pacific
You can also make your way to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to visit intriguing tourist attractions like the Cu Chi Tunnels used by Vietnam War soldiers, Stilt House, and Mekong Delta. The city is also known for its French colonial architecture, which one can experience at the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Saigon Opera House.
From Manila, CEB flies to Hanoi every Friday, and to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) every Tuesday.
Travel requirements: Foreign travelers must present a valid Visa or Immigration Approval Letter (for visa-on-arrival) and their return/onward ticket.
Summer vibe all-year-round: Bali
Bali is on a lot of travelers’ beach bucket lists, and you can experience it too with its year-round summer vibe. There are several choices catering to various interests: Candidasa Beach is perfect for divers; Uluwatu is for surfers and those who love cliffside views, and Seminyak has a fun nightlife by the sea.
Travel Bali with Cebu Pacific
CEB flies to Bali from Manila twice a week, every Monday and Friday.
Bali Travel requirements: Foreign travelers must have their vaccination certificate, health insurance policy of USD25,000 for COVID-19 treatment and/or hospitalization, visitor visa, E-Customs Declaration Form, and proof of hotel booking confirmation. They must also download and register at thePeduliLindungi Appbefore flying.
Live your K-drama dreams: Seoul
Seoul, Korea has become a tourist hotspot for Filipinos. The capital city has five palace complexes that you can visit and feel like royalty. Insadong has unique shops where you can get native handicrafts, try on a hanbok, and eat at local cafes in the area. You can also get the full K-drama experience by visiting spots where your favorite shows were filmed.
South Korea Flights via Cebu Pacific
CEB flies to Seoul every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and will be flying daily starting June 1.
CEB also intends to operate twice-weekly flights from Cebu to Seoul, every Thursday and Sunday starting July 3.
Travel requirements: Effective June 1, 2022, The South Korean Embassy in Manila will resume the issuance of tourist visas. Multiple entry visa holders issued before 5 April 2020 that has not expired do not need to reapply.
Passengers may present either a negative COVID-19 PCR test result 48 hours before departure or a negative Laboratory-based Rapid Test result taken 24 hours before departure. They must also present their vaccination certificate. Full vaccination refers to those who have received two (2) doses of COVID-19 vaccine two (2) weeks earlier but less than 180 days before the flight, as well as those with booster shots.
Experience the Arabian Adventure: Dubai
Dubai Flights via Cebu Pacific
Dubai is the city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates that is famous for luxury shopping, ultramodern skyscrapers, adventure sports, and desert safari. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the “Museum of the Future”, a living museum that explores how society could evolve in the coming decades. The Dubai Hills Mall, the newest shopping mall with 600 outlet stores, is located in a chic neighborhood. Not to be missed: the desert safari activities where one can ride a camel, dune buggy, or squad bike for that memorable experience.
CEB flies once daily to Dubai from Manila.
Travel requirements: Passengers may apply for a visa before the trip. They must present a recognized vaccine certificate that reflects the completion of doses of vaccine approved by the WHO and a printed copy of negative RT-PCR results from DOH-accredited laboratories, with a validity of no more than 48 hours before departure.It is mandatory that the negative test report includes a QR code, which is linked to the original report for verification purposes by the airlines through a mobile/cell phone and validation by the representatives of Dubai Health Authority (DHA) upon the passenger arrivals at the Dubai Airports.
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Traveling overseas is exciting and Cebu Pacific will guarantee safe flights for everyJuan, and also a foreign traveler who wants to experience the beauty of the Philippines. Book your trips and check out travel requirements on www.cebupacificair.com.
Few things compare to the experience of prepping for travel. This includes small joys like deciding on a new destination and looking for excellent deals on flights and accommodation. But for the past couple of years, travel planning has taken a backseat. From the safety of home, Filipinos could only dream of when they could travel next.
Traveloka’s GOverseas International Travel Fiesta
But now that the world has opened up again, Pinoy travelers can start planning their next big adventures. One way to do so is by checking out Traveloka’s GOverseas International Travel Fiesta, a travel campaign that will offer exceptional travel deals on flights, hotel bookings, and attractions between May 31 and June 6, 2022.
Visitors to the Traveloka website and Traveloka Lifestyle Superapp have a chance to score up to PHP24,400 worth of total discounts on various Traveloka products, such as flight seats, hotel accommodations, and access to top international attractions. Just like at a travel expo, visitors are eligible to snag even more awesome travel deals through the GOverseas International Travel Fiesta’s daily flash sales and social media challenges.
On June 4, 2022, Traveloka will also be holding a Livestream session with host and famous visual storyteller Janina Manipol as she shares interesting stories with the viewers. Those watching the stream will have a chance to win amazing travel vouchers.
source: pexels-maxim-titov
Customers who are planning a vacation to the USA, Middle Eastern countries, or neighboring Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and South Korea can also enjoy exclusive promos and discounts. To become eligible for these deals, travelers simply need to visit the Traveloka website or log in to the Traveloka Lifestyle Superapp during the GOverseas International Travel Fiesta campaign period.
About Traveloka
Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s lifestyle superapp, provides users access to discover and purchase a wide range of travel, local services, and financial services products. Traveloka’s comprehensive product portfolio includes transport booking services such as flight tickets, buses, trains, car rental, and airport transfers, as well as access to the largest accommodation inventory in Southeast Asia, including hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas, making Traveloka as a booking platform with widest selections of accommodation and packages.
Traveloka is also a key player in the local services category (currently specific to certain markets), offering reservations for a wide range of local attractions, activities, wellness and beauty clinics, culinary directories, and food delivery. Traveloka also offers financing, payment, and insurance products to help Southeast Asian consumers fulfill their lifestyle aspirations. Traveloka provides 24/7 customer service in the local language as well as more than 40 different local payment methods. Traveloka lifestyle superapp has been downloaded more than 100 million times, making it the most popular travel and lifestyle booking application in the Southeast Asian region.
For more information on Traveloka’s products and services or the GOverseas International Travel Fiesta, visit the Traveloka website or use the Traveloka app, available from the App Store and Google Play.
Located in Lipa City in Batangas, The Farm at San Benito encompasses all the luxurious features of a premium medical wellness resort. Its tastefully-appointed suites and villas echo a sophisticated design concept that marries the opulence of nature and the subtle elegance of traditional Filipino-Oriental sensibilities. Nestled in a 51-hectare forested property, The Farm at San Benito is an exclusive estate of lush gardens and lagoons, quiet tree groves, and crisp, fresh air, with strong positive energy radiating around the property.
Complete Holistic Healing Journey
Yet, beyond its paradisal beauty and the inspiring sensations it evokes, lies The Farm’s true essence: it is a facility for medical wellness and a safe sanctuary for healing. Its programs, aimed to help the body and mind achieve optimum health and performance, have been meticulously designed following foundational science-based protocols and guided by evidence.
At a time when health consciousness has become a widespread realization, more and more people are traveling to achieve a state of mind and body that is fit and well-balanced. Some travel to seek treatment for their illnesses. Others do so as a preventive measure to keep their health at an optimum level. Traveling with a purposethat is focused on health and wellness attests to the phenomenal growth of conscious travelers.
The Farm at San Benito is at the forefront of medical wellness tourism. It has celebrated 2 decades of life-transformative healing holidays and has distinguished itself as one of the world’s best, winning over 80 accolades from prestigious international bodies such as The Best Wellness Resort in the World by SENSES Germany. It cupped the coveted ‘Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Award from the Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards in 2021 receiving a total of 21 awards.
Since it’s officially the rainy season in the country, now is the perfect time to detox and cleanse from within. Rain symbolizes purification. At The Farm, you can experience a full immersion to clean living through physical healing through mindful movements and functional fitness activities, medically-guided fasting, and treatments to eliminate toxins from within while restoring the body’s optimum ability to restore nutrients.
The Farm offers ‘Intro to Detox,’ a program that includes a 3-day medically supervised cleansing program to purge unhealthy elements from the body and mind while providing optimum nutrition. While Weight Management, Diabetes Prevention & Heart Health Programs are focused on managing obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and stress to resolve the root cause of the dysfunction and bring the body back to a natural state of balance. Its other programs also include Holistic Detox Cleanse, Sleep Induction Program, Immune Intelligence Program, Mental Health Program, Pain Management Program, Beauty & Longevity, Yoga & Raw Food Retreat, Long COVID Recovery Program, Fertility Program, Senior Wellness, and more.
At The Farm, the wide-ranging compendium of services aimed to address various health and psycho-emotional conditions, are all medically supervised by licensed physicians supported by health professionals, spa therapists, medical acupuncturists, physiotherapists, nutritionists, living food experts, fitness coaches, sound healers, yoga teachers. The Farm at San Benito is thus a complete and genuine sanctuary—a space of encompassing beauty where the body and mind can heal to return to a state of genuine well-being and spiritual enrichment and inner renewal can be achieved.
Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thefarmatsanbenito Instagram @thefarmatsanbenito visit https://ift.tt/HiD6AI9. For bookings and inquiries, call +63 918 884 8080 / +63 917 572 2325 / +63 917 572 2223 /+63 917 572 2977 or send us an e-mail at reservationsteam@thefarm.com.ph. Visit https://ift.tt/HiD6AI9
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The Philippine government will no longer require a pre-departure COVID-19 test for incoming fully vaccinated passengers as part of its measures to revive the pandemic-hit economy starting May 30, 2022.
Following the recommendations made by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as a means to further ease the travel requirements and encourage more tourists to visit the country, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) approved Resolution 168 exempting all fully vaccinated and boostered foreign nationals from the RT-PCR test requirement. Based on the resolution, the visitor must be at least 18 years old and must have received the primary series of Covid-19 vaccines and at least one booster shot.
COVID PRE-DEPARTURE TEST
Also exempted from the pre-departure RT-PCR requirement are foreign nationals aged 12 to 17 who have received their primary Covid-19 vaccine/s, and those aged below 12 and traveling with fully vaccinated or boostered parents or guardians.
The same exemption guidelines apply to Filipinos traveling to the Philippines.
“We are glad that the propositions we have worked on have been approved by the IATF-EID and are now up for implementation. As we make it more convenient for tourists to visit the country, the public’s health and safety will remain the DOT’s priority.”, Tourism Secretary Berna-Romulo Puyat said.
“The DOT sees this development as a win for the local tourism industry as welcoming more tourists in the country will yield more revenues for our MSMEs and restore more jobs and livelihoods in the sector,” she added.
Meanwhile, travel insurance is no longer required, but is still highly encouraged, for arriving passengers. Regardless of country of origin, all types of vaccination certificates will also be accepted.
Based on recent data, a total of 517,516 foreign tourist arrivals have been recorded in the Philippines from 10 February to 25 May 2022.
A bulk of foreign tourists, totaling 104,589 came from the United States, followed by South Korea with 28,474, and Canada with 24,337.
Australian nationals, British/English, and Japanese tourists came next on the list with 23,286; 20,846; and 13,373 respectively.
Other foreign visitors to the Philippines during the early months of the year include Vietnamese, Singaporeans, Malaysians, Italians, Irish and French.
Puyat said the Department is looking forward to an uptick in tourist arrivals in the coming weeks following the further easing of entry requirements into the country.
What better way to experience this year’s much-anticipated music festival and hot air balloon display than staying with Airbnb’s Kapampangan Hosts?
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Excitement is in the air with Pampanga’s annual hot air balloon festival making its grand comeback this year. From hot air balloons from all over the world to live performances from the country’s most sought-after and up-and-coming artistes — the event will be nothing short of spectacular. If you have already booked your tickets and are looking for the best places to stay in Pampanga, Airbnb’s covered!
From amazing pool houses and beautifully-designed houses to idyllic farm stays, Pampanga has a wide array of one-of-a-kind homes. And with Airbnb’s redesigned browsing experience through Airbnb categories, it’s now way easier to discover these unique homes you didn’t know existed!
Amazing pool houses for staycays
Casa Buena de BacolorThe Pad Prime Villa Airbnb Stays in Pampanga
After soaking up good music and food at the fest, spend your well-deserved leisure time atCasa Buena de Bacolor— a cozy Japanese-style villa with a stunning private pool. Bonus: it comes with a dedicated workspace with a stable connection, if you’re planning to stay a little longer and bring work with you.
Another pool house in Pampanga isThe Pad Prime Villa.A minimalist retreat conveniently located near malls and restaurants, it boasts a newly-built swimming pool and all of the amenities of modern living.
Beautiful picturesque villas
The Pad Heritage GlasshouseMi Casa es Tu Casa
Looking forward to sharing gorgeous shots from the festival on your socials? Why not book an equally stunning Airbnb Stay for more aesthetic photos? Stay atThe Pad Heritage Glasshouse,a Thai-inspired glasshouse with a large saltwater pool. The house has high ceilings and airy interiors with capiz windows reminiscent of old Filipino homes.
Contemporary vacation houseMi Casa es Tu Casaoffers classy interiors, modern facilities, and an expansive space perfect for families. Guests often rave about its very attentive and accommodating Host.
Nature escapes for longer getaways
Exclusive Farm House tucked in the heart of AngelesLa Casa Exclusive Lake Farm
Pampanga’s hidden farmhouses might be a perfect choice if you’re staying a little longer in the province! ThisExclusive Farm House tucked in the heart of Angelesis wrapped in luscious greenery and nestled in the midst of a three-hectare orchard. It’s spacious enough for large groups yet provides a slice of privacy.
La Casa Exclusive Lake Farmis another dreamy farm stay in Pampanga. This stay is the very picture of serenity: it houses two rustic cottages, a spacious garden, small tents, hammocks, a swimming pool, and a lake filled with floating lilies.
All Airbnb Stays come withAirCover—the most comprehensive protection in travel and included for free in every stay. Find the full details onhow your Airbnb booking is protectedfor an enjoyable and hassle-free staycation in Pampanga.
Team Sibol bags two gold medals and two silver medals
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Mobile services provider and staunch esports supporter Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) lauded Philippine esports team SIBOL for bagging two gold medals and two silver medals at the recently concluded 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam.
With their medals, SIBOL placed third in the esports division with Vietnam at the top spot followed by Indonesia.
Sibol Wild Rift
SIBOL fielded a total of 54 esports athletes across 10 events for titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, FIFA Online 4, Crossfire, Free Fire, League of Legends (Wild Rift, PC), and PlayersUnknownBattlegrounds (PUBG).
“We at Smart congratulate SIBOL for their momentous feat in the SEA Games. Their dedication and perseverance are undeniable as they brought honor and pride to our country. We hope that more young Filipinos follow their footsteps and pursue their passions with purpose,” said Jane J. Basas, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.
Back-to-Back Gold for Team Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and League of Legends: Wild Rift
SIBOL snagged two gold medals in their match for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and League of Legends: Wild Rift.
SIBOL’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Team has proven again that they are kings of Southeast Asia as they beat Indonesia in a 3-1 match. The team is composed of Johnmar “OhMyV33nus” Villaluna, Danerie James “Wise” Del Rosario, Kyle Dominic “Dominic” Soto, Salic Alauya “Hadji” Imam, Lee Howard “Owl” Gonzales, Dexstar Louise “DEX STAR” Cruz Alaba and Russel Aaron “Eyon” Usi.
On the other hand, SIBOL’s all-women League of Legends: Wild Rift team took home the country’s first gold medal for esports after dominating the finals against Singapore by 3-0. The team members are Charize “Yugen” Doble, Gianna “Jeeya” Llanes, Christine “Ray Ray” Natividad, Rose Ann “Hell Girl” Robles, and Angel Danica “Angelailaila” Lozada.
Meanwhile, SIBOL’s League of Legends (PC) and Crossfire teams delivered the silver medals for the PH. Both teams went up against Vietnam in the finals.
The biggest supporter of Philippine esports
Smart’s support for SIBOL is part of its longstanding commitment to the growth of Philippine esports by partnering with game creators and esports tournament organizers here and abroad, including the recent such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) Seasons and Liga Adarna, the first female esports tournament in the country.
Aside from organizing the country’s biggest esports events and backing Filipino esports athletes, Smart also supports gamers with relevant data offers and services to level up their gameplay.
“SIBOL’s journey to the 31st SEA Games would not be possible without the generous support of Smart, along with our other partners, who share our belief that Filipinos have what it takes to dominate the global esports stage. We are grateful to Smart and look forward to a brighter esports future with their continued support,” said Brian Lim, PESO President.
Level up with GIGA Games, GIGA Arena
Earlier this year, Smart launched the enhanced GIGA Games, which now includes data for PUBGM, on top of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Facebook Gaming, and many more.
Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers can conveniently register to GIGA Games via the GigaLife App, which is available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei Mobile Services. Customers may also avail of GIGA Games by dialing *123#.
Smart also recently launched GIGA Arena, the country’s first all-in-one esports platform that aims to simply bring the total esports experience to mobile gamers who are looking to test their skills on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, League of Legends: WildRift, PUBG, and Call of Duty Mobile.
Smart applauds SIBOL performance in 2022 SEA Games
To join Smart GIGA Arena, subscribers can simply go to gigaarena.smart and create an account using their Smart or TNT mobile number. To join ongoing tournaments, users need to use Giga Arena tickets, which they can earn and accumulate every time they register to GIGA Games data packs on the GigaLife App or by dialing *123#
Philippines’ fastest 5G mobile network
Smart subscribers enjoy leveled-up gaming experiences powered by Smart, the Philippines’ fastest 5G mobile network according to Ookla, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence.
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Cavite may be an all-too-familiar destination, being Metro Manila’s next-door neighbor and urban satellite. But despite its gentrification in recent decades, the province is home to many under-the-radar attractions hiding from plain sight, particularly in the interiors of Maragondon and Silang.
Likhang Maragondon
Rediscover these towns’ historical, cultural, culinary, and countryside spots as AAP Lakbay roll on its second caravan this year on May 28.
The drive tourism arm of the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), the country’s national auto club, AAP Lakbay has been doing a series of “Drive, Dine and Discover” caravans across the country’s key destinations over the past decade to promote domestic tourism.
Cornerstone Pottery Farm
The caravan will visit Maragondon’s Church of the Our Lady of the Assumption, listed by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure, and the Bonifacio Trial House Museum where Katipunan Supremo Andres Bonifacio was given the death sentence by fellow Filipino revolutionaries in 1897 due to trumped-up charges.
Participants will also feast on native lunch on board a bamboo raft cruise at the scenic Inuquit River, once adjudged as among the country’s cleanest and greenest bodies of water.
Asiong Caviteno Restaurant
For souvenir shopping, there’s Likhang Maragondon, an award-winning local enterprise that is helping revive the town’s age-old weaving tradition and bamboo craft by making them available to a bigger market.
Meanwhile, pit stops in Silang include Cornerstone Pottery for artisanal craft, Ilayang Pulo Garden Center for plant shopping for “plantitos” and “plantitas”, and will be capped with a taste of heirloom delicacies at Asiong Caviteño Restaurant.
“The AAP Lakbay Cavite caravan will feature the lesser-known but equally exciting history, food, and crafts of the province as part of the tourism reboot of the Calabarzon Region,” says Marites Castro, acting regional director of the Department of Tourism-Calabarzon which is a major supporter of the event.
Bonifacio Trial House
She said that the DOT regional office launched last December the Green Corridor circuits in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon which are compliant with the government’s pandemic protocols.
She added that the caravan is among the private initiatives to promote “green circuits” to tour operators and travelers.
Moreover, AAP Lakbay president Mina Gabor, the group is lining up more unique destinations off the beaten path through well-curated itineraries to spread tourism’s benefits to provincial communities.
Our Lady of Assumption ChurchInuquit River Cruise in Maragondon
The former tourism secretary noted that the caravans are worry-free trips emphasizing road safety, place pride, and sustainable tourism.
The Cavite caravan is also supported by official fuel partner Petron Corp., Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), and Mapfre Insurance, which all share the advocacy of promoting domestic tourism and allied industries.
For details, log on to https://ift.tt/isFm6E2, email aaplakbay.caravan@gmail.com or follow AAP Lakbay on Facebook.
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) has teamed up with Funko and Disney to bring one of the world’s most iconic and beloved characters, Mickey Mouse, to the Philippines via Funko Pops – with a locally inspired design for the first time!
L-R: Ban Kee Trading, Inc CEO Eric Bautista, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, Funko Funatic Philippines founder Nikko Lim, and DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Howard Lance Uyking
This new line of Mickey-themed Funko Pops was specially created together with Disney and Funko, featuring Mickey Mouse in a barong Tagalog, the national attire of the Philippines, an embroidered long-sleeved shirt commonly used as a formal outfit. The package also contains a postcard from the country’s major tourist magnets Boracay, Baguio, Cebu, Manila, and Siargao Island.
The items are now in the market starting May 18, 2022.
Mickey Mouse Funko Pops clad in the Philippine national attire barong Tagalog available in two versions/ Sepia and regular
On Tuesday, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat met with Ban Kee Trading, Inc CEO, Eric Bautista, the authorized Philippine distributor for Funko, and Funko Funatic Philippines founder Nikko Lim formally forge the partnership with the DOT.
“We believe that having a global icon like Mickey Mouse will help promote the Philippines, and its tourist destinations, to the world. This collectible will not only be enjoyed by children but also adults who want to reminisce about all the good times they had with their favorite Disney character,” Puyat said, citing that this collection would also contribute to the recovery of the pandemic-hit tourism industry.
Mickey Go Philippines Funko Pop
Last November 2021, the DOT collaborated with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia for the Mickey Go Philippines campaign, which included the production of various digital content featuring local travel destinations, and Mickey-inspired versions of local delicacies such as Arroz Caldo, halo-halo, and Vigan empanada.
In November 2018, Mickey Mouse also traveled around the Philippines wearing a barong as part of worldwide celebrations honoring 90 years of Mickey Mouse.
Ready Your Visa Requirements for Your Korea Travel Starting June 1!
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Annyeong, chingu– we’ve got some excellent news for you: finally, South Korea allows tourist travel again starting June 1!
After years of just settling for k-dramas, k-pop playlists, samgyeopsal, and virtual concerts, you can now achieve your Hallyu dreams once again as South Korea resumes its processing service for all types of visas starting June 1, 2022.
South Korea reopens to Filipino tourists in June photo via Pixabay
According to the notice posted by the Korean Embassy in the Philippines, this includes a tourist visa, which means we can start our travel goals again and finally book that much-awaited flight to the land of oppas and unnies.
In the notice, multiple entry visas issued before April 5, 2022, which have not expired yet, may still be used without reapplying. There is also no need for Consent of Isolation as well.
However, quarantine health protocols should still be observed and COVID-19 testings are still required in the following scenarios:
Passengers must present a negative PCR test issued within 48 hours or a negative RAT certificate within 24 hours before the intended departure date.
Unvaccinated passengers should undergo quarantine, while vaccinated passengers shall be exempted.
Register viaQ-CODEfor the online vaccination before your departure.
Q-CODE is their Quarantine Information Advance Input System, where you’ll need to fill in your details to get a QR code before your departure. It’s just an 8-step application that includes your consent to the Terms and Conditions, passport info, quarantine info, and health details.
You may also learn more about the mandatory quarantine byvisiting this linkfor more details.
Upon the resumption of visa processing in South Korea, the embassy hopes to “promote people-to-people exchanges between Korea and the Philippines through tourism.”
If it isn’t obvious yet, a lot of Filipinos are very fond of Korean culture. From the OG K-dramas that made us cry and laugh (Endless Love and Full House fans, where you at?!), the global sensation that is K-Pop (Super Junior to BTS stans, raise your hands!), up to the food (samgyup, G?), we can’t deny the fact that K-culture really influenced people of all ages in so many ways.
Over the years before the pandemic began, the number of Filipino tourists going to Korea kept increasing in numbers, as more than 50,000 weekly seats on international flights were being filled. Adding to that, one of South Koreans’ favorite tourist destinations is the Philippines, with the latter expecting 2 million tourist arrivals in late 2019 – thanks to the increased number of airlines and flights and tourism cooperation details between the two countries.
With South Korea welcoming tourists again this year, we wonder, what are your dream destinations in the country? Are you the type to travel laidback and want to experience Jeju? Want to explore emerging destinations such as Busan? Or do you want to shop till you drop in South Korea’s Myeongdong?
Are you excited to travel again? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section!
Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Negros is one of the underrated provinces in the Visayas region. It is home to many historical and cultural attractions such as The Ruins, Balay Negrense, Hofilena Heritage House, as well as tourism spots like Carbin Reef and Mag-aso Falls. To add, you can’t miss the exceptional cuisine this province has to offer.
Rice Terraces near Murcia, Negros Occidental
Thankfully, the provincial government of Negros kickstarted the LakBAYANIhan Tourism Fair 2022 which started last May 16 at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City, which aims to boost its tourism efforts. This is also the first tourism fair that was established since the pandemic, in an effort to “take their momentum back,” as mentioned by Governor Eugenio Lacson during the opening of the said fair.
2022 Lakbayanihan Tourism FairGovernor Eugenio Jose Lacson with other govenment officials and tourism stakeholders at the launch of Lakbayanihan Tourism Fair 2022
To give you a background of what’s to see during the Lakbayanihan Fair, here are the highlights!
Farm tourism
In a report by the Philippine News Agency in 2019, there are 14 farm tourism sites accredited in Negros Occidental. This type of tourism is on the rise, as Negros works toward developing sustainable agritourism through organic farming in several of their farming villages. By opening farms to tourists, many people can learn and at the same time, enjoy tourism activities via experiential learning.
Organic Food at Rapha Valley Place of WellnessOrganic vegetable and flower salad at Rapha Valley Place of WellnessOrganic Juices at Rapha Valley Place of Wellness
Some of the farm tourism sites you can visit in negros include Peñalosa Farms in Victorias City, Owataks Herbs Farm, and Rapha Valley Place of Wellness.
‘Slow food’ travel
As the pioneer of slow food travel in the Philippines, Negros Occidental also wants to highlight its own version of food tourism. Slow food travel is an ethical way of tourism that creates a connection between farmers and consumers, shortens the supply chain, and preserves local food heritage by offering gastronomic experiences through local culture. In Negros, they see slow food as good, clean, and fair food, all while recognizing the planet, culture, plate, and people.
Slow Food Dinner at Lanai by Fresh StartHealthy Beverage at Lanai by Fresh StartBaked Garlic Angle Wings Clam at Lanai by Fresh Start
Looking for good places to eat in Negros? Check out Negros Museum Cafe and Lanai by Fresh Start!
Handicrafts
Calatrava Booth at 2022 Negros Tourism Fair photo via Ayala Malls FB PageLakBAYANIhan Tourism Fair 2022
Apart from the experiences, you can get when you visit Negros this 2022, you can also purchase local artisan products such as bags, house decors, and lots of souvenir items here!
Festivals
When it comes to travel experiences, you shouldn’t miss Negros festivals which are also showcased in LakBAYANIhan Fair 2022. One of which is the Panaad Festival, dubbed as the “festival of all festivals” which unites various cities in Negros to promote their culture and heritage every first week of April.
Another festival worth seeing in Negros is the well-known Masskara Festival in Bacolod, a colorful event where locals don colorful and creative masks to celebrate the festival that named them the “City of Smiles.” Masskara Festival is celebrated every 4th Sunday of October.
Sports tourism
The province also wants to venture into sports tourism, by hosting several sports activities in their province via the Panaad Stadium and Paglaum Sports Complex. Negros Occidental also offers outdoor tourism activities such as diving, perfect for those who want to try watersports activities in Negros.
The LakBAYANIhan Tourism Fair 2022 will run until May 29. Get to know more about the beauty of Negros Occidental and see what the Negrenses have to offer from arts, and food, to tourism!
