The Philippines is all set to become the ultimate destination next year with the launch of Department of Tourism’s Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015, an invitation for all to experience the enduring promise of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” Encouraging nationwide participation, DOT hopes to inspire 10 million foreign tourists to discover, explore and fall in love with the Philippines.
Arts and Culture
The Sinulog, Dinagyang and Ati-atihan are just some of the many colorful and festive events that celebrate and showcase the beautiful people and culture of the Philippines. These world-famous festivals open the door for visitors to discover its rich heritage of centuries-old baroque churches, historical museums and local arts and Filipino craftsmanship.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
The Philippines has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle and entertainment. Shopping destinations and nightlife are the selling points for Manila. Some international performers will also hold concerts in the country next year, including the pop sensation One Direction.
There are also unique international events held in the country like the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition. Never amiss in what’s in, the country comes on top in providing recreation and entertainment hard to match.
Travel and Adventure
The Philippines is rich in natural wonders and biodiversity that tourists wanting to commune with nature will love. It is famous for its hiking, diving and adventure hubs like Siargao Island, a favorite surfing site, Boracay, known for its white beach sand, Bohol for cruise tourism, and Cebu for its breathtaking diving sites.
World Heritage Sites—the Banaue Rice Terraces, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife and Sanctuary, the Palawan Underground River which is also one of the world’s New7Wonders of Nature, continue to inspire awe even among jaded travelers.
Year-round Sporting Events
The country, known for its people’s competitive spirit, plays host to international sporting events, some of which have made the Philippines a part of their circuit are Iron Man and Xterra Triathlons, and CWC International Wakeboarding Competition. Local sporting events like the International Dragon Boat Race in Boracay and the myriad of marathons and triathlons, including fun races like color blasts and zombie runs have attracted international attention and participation.
Business
The Philippines also boasts of modern facilities for conventions and business conferences. Next year, the country will host the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit. Guests will include 21 heads of state and 46 ministers, with about 10,000 economic leaders, support staff and international journalists.
VPY 2015 also comes at the time DOT makes progress on measures to realize the planned regional economic integration of Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes the readiness of the Bureau of Immigration to honor the common visas extended by all member countries to those traveling to the Philippines. Doing business in the country is reinforced by its back-to-back investment upgrades and high economic growth performance.
It’s More Fun in the Philippines website
To drum up more interest for VPY 2015, the DOT has given its website a makeover, redirecting its home page to the revitalized “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website (www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com) with more features to assist potential tourists, travel agencies and event organizers. The website aims to be the one-stop portal for all queries about traveling to the Philippines, its must-visit destinations and events in 2015.
In support, the DOT has developed a microsite inside the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website to serve as directory to everything the Philippines has to offer. All stakeholders, from event organizers to tour agencies, are encouraged to go to www.phl2015.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com and register and promote their activities to an international audience.
With VPY 2015, DOT aims to have every quarter one major occasion that would attract not only domestic but also international tourists to visit the country.
Indeed, Visit the Philippines Year 2015 is a great opportunity to finally share with the world the unique experiences and adventures this country can offer.
