88TH AVENUE CEBU: STILL THE VIBRANT ESCAPE OF CHOICE IN THE QUEEN CITY
PH TAKES ‘BEST DIVE DESTINATION’ TROPHY IN DRT AWARDS
Discovering the Rich History of Cebu : A Visit to Fort San Pedro
Tumalog Falls: A Breathtaking Natural Wonder in Cebu
New Flights from Clark to Boost Tourism, Decongest NAIA
Frasco Leads Grand Welcome Reception for Cruise Passengers
PHL Breaches 2.6m Arrivals for 2022; DOT Chief Bullish on 2023 Projections
Discovering the Meranaws: Uncovering the Rich Culture and Natural Beauty of Lanao del Sur
Routes: Mactan-Cebu Airport is Asia’s Best Under 5M Category
Discovering Dumaguete: Top 10 Must-See Attractions and Activities
PH Takes ‘Best Dive Destination’ Trophy in DRT Awards
P6.4 Billion Allotted to PH Tourism Image in 2023
Sinulog Grand Parade in Cebu Draws 3M Devotees, Revelers
PH Tourism Receipts to Double as China Reopens
88th Avenue Cebu: Still the Vibrant Escape of Choice in the Queen City
One Tectona Hotel: A Liloan Couple’s Tribute to Teak
The Local ‘Lokal’ Dauin Experience
La Carne at 88th Avenue: Premium Beef and Lamb for Cebuanos and Expats Alike
Philippine Tourism is an independent publication that promotes the beauty and culture of the Philippines to a broad audience of local and foreign travellers by showcasing various destinations, accommodations, events, and activities available in the country.
Publisher Elizabeth Galura
Consulting Publisher Greg Brimble
Editor Jimbo Owen Gulle
Business Development Manager Steve Howe +63 969 5209 950 steve@philippine-resources.com
Sales and Marketing Manager Matt Brimble +63 927 721 6622 matthew@philippine-resources.com
Graphic Designer Bogtong Wangga Manila Publishing Office Suite 6, 2nd Floor Corinthian Plaza Building 121 Paseo de Roxas Legaspi Village
Makati City, Philippines 1226 Phone +632 8251 5599
On the Cover : Sinulog 2023
Eagle Publishing.
Steve Howe is an accomplished Business Development Manager with a passion for promoting the beauty and rich culture of the Philippines. He currently leads the efforts at Philippine Resources Tourism Magazine to help grow the country’s tourism industry and highlight its unique attractions. With extensive experience in the Philippines and the tourism industry, Steve is wellequipped to help businesses and individuals showcase their products and services to a wider audience. He has been living in the
Tourism is an important industry for the Philippines, providing numerous economic and social benefits for the country. The basic concept of tourism involves the movement of people outside of their own place of residence for pleasure and leisure, and it differs from traveling to reaching a destination. The hospitality and tourism industries are vast sectors that encompass all economic activities that directly or indirectly contribute to, or depend upon, travel and tourism.
Tourism in the Philippines offers a great opportunity for emerging economies and developing countries to create jobs, strengthen local businesses, and conserve natural environments, cultural assets, and traditions. The industry is vital for the benefits it brings and its role as a commercial activity that creates demand and growth for many more industries.
Before the pandemic, the Philippines welcomed approximately 7 million foreign tourists and 50 million domestic tourists annually. However, due to COVID-19, the tourism industry suffered, and the country’s borders were closed to foreign visitors. With the gradual reopening of the country to foreigners and the ability for nationals to move around freely, the Philippines is looking to re-establish route connections and rebuild infrastructure and buildings damaged by storms in the past three years, making them ready to welcome guests from far and wide.
The Philippines offers a range of key areas to tourists from all over the world, with over 7,600 islands, each offering a rich biodiversity ranging from tropical rain forests, mangroves, and
coral reefs to mountain ranges, worldclass beaches, beautiful islands, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The natural beauty of the islands, a strong tourism industry, existing yacht clubs, and a supportive expat community make the Philippines an attractive destination for sailing enthusiasts, with destinations such as Boracay, Puerto Galera, Palawan, Subic Bay, Cebu, and Bohol becoming increasingly popular.
The Philippines is also home to a very rich marine biodiversity, hosting more than 400 out of the planet’s 500 coral species, making it an ideal location for divers. The country currently has over 100 identified diving spots across the islands that are rich
Philippines since 2015, and during this time has worked across multiple industries and cities, giving him a unique perspective on the country’s culture and economy.
If you’re looking to advertise or contribute articles for the magazine’s upcoming issues, Steve is the person to talk to. You can reach him at steve@philippine-resources. com or by calling him at 0969 5209 950. With Steve’s guidance, you can be sure that your brand or content will receive the exposure it deserves.
in corals and marine species, and it is working towards tapping a larger share of the world’s diving market.
Moreover, the Philippines is in the process of becoming one of Asia’s top international cruise destinations, and the Department of Tourism (DOT) has identified cruise tourism as one of its priorities. The agency plans to create more ports that will be attractive to, and able to meet the standards of, international cruise ships. Manila, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Boracay, and Davao City in Mindanao have been identified as cruise ship destinations.
The DOT’s plans also include the construction of a cruise port with a terminal in Manila that will be able to host international cruise liners carrying over 3,000 passengers. Cruise tourism is one of the nine product portfolios identified in the DOT’s National Tourism Development Plan, which aims to enhance the country’s competitiveness as a tourist destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
In conclusion, tourism is an important industry for the Philippines, offering numerous opportunities and potential for growth. The industry is vital for the benefits it brings, including job creation, local business development, and conservation of natural environments, cultural assets, and traditions.
With the gradual reopening of the country’s borders to foreign visitors, the Philippines is looking to rebuild and develop infrastructure to welcome guests from all over the world, and establish itself as an attractive destination for yachting, diving, and cruise tourism.
If you’re looking for a glimpse into the rich history of Cebu, Fort San Pedro is a must-visit destination. This 16th-century military fortification is in the heart of Cebu City and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s past.
Built by the Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, Fort San Pedro is the oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines. It was originally built in 1565 to defend the city from Muslim raiders and was made of logs and earthworks. In 1738, the fort was reconstructed using stone, and it still stands strong to this day.
Getting to Fort San Pedro is relatively easy. From the city center, it’s just a short walk or taxi ride away. If you’re taking public transportation, you can take a jeepney or a bus that passes by the fort.
Once you arrive, Fort San Pedro is open every day from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The entrance fee is PHP 30 for adults and PHP 20 for children and students with valid IDs. Visitors
can explore the fort’s different areas, including the main fort, the museum, and the gardens. There are also tour guides available to provide additional information and insights into the fort’s history.
The fort is a great place to learn about the history of Cebu and the Philippines. Inside, visitors can see a collection of artifacts and displays that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The fort also offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding city, making it a great spot for taking photos.
One of the most interesting things about Fort San Pedro is the way it has been repurposed over the centuries. During the American colonial period, the fort served as a prison for political detainees. In World War II, it was used by the Japanese as a garrison. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Aside from the fort itself, there are plenty of other things to see and do
in the surrounding area. The nearby Plaza Independencia, for example, is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. And the nearby Cebu City Museum offers even more opportunities to learn about the history of the city and the Philippines.
Overall, Fort San Pedro is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Cebu and the Philippines. With its stunning views, rich history, and fascinating displays, it is sure to be a highlight of your trip to the region.
Nestled in the heart of Oslob, a quiet town located in the southern part of Cebu, lies a hidden gem that has been drawing visitors from all over the world -- the Tumalog Falls. With its picturesque beauty and pristine waters, the Tumalog Falls is a must-visit destination for any traveler who loves to explore the natural wonders of the Philippines.
The Tumalog Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into a pool surrounded by lush greenery. The main waterfall stands around 60 feet tall and is shaped like a curtain of water, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold. The water is crystal clear and cold, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of the sun.
Apart from its natural beauty, the
Tumalog Falls is also known for its unique rock formations. The surrounding rocks are covered in moss and algae, giving them a vibrant green color that adds to the overall appeal of the waterfall. There are also several smaller waterfalls in the area that visitors can explore, making it a great spot for hiking and nature walks.
To get to Tumalog Falls from Cebu City, you can take a bus or a private car. The trip takes around three hours, passing through the scenic countryside and coastal towns of southern Cebu. Once you reach the town of Oslob, you can hire a motorcycle or a tricycle to take you to the waterfall. The ride is bumpy and may take around 20 minutes, but the stunning views of the coastline and mountains make it a
worthwhile journey.
The best time to visit Tumalog Falls is during the weekdays or early in the morning, as it can get crowded during weekends and holidays. Admission fee is minimal and includes access to the viewing deck, but if you want to swim in the waterfall, you will need to pay an additional fee. There are also local vendors selling snacks and refreshments, so you can have a picnic by the falls.
Tumalog Falls is a natural wonder that every traveler should experience when visiting Cebu. Its breathtaking beauty, unique rock formations, and refreshing waters make it a perfect escape from the city. With its accessibility and affordability, it is a destination that is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes local airlines’ recent announcements on the reopening of direct flights from Clark International Airport (Clark) to the country’s prime island tourist locations.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco made the statement as Cebu Pacific confirmed boosting of the Clark hub with the combined 13 domestic and international routes. The airline also announced that three of their aircraft will be based in Clark.
The newly established flights will service Caticlan, Davao, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, General Santos, and Cagay -
an de Oro starting April of this year, while the Puerto Princesa route will commence in June. The international routes include Clark to Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Singapore.
Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines has announced it will start flying flights from Clark to Caticlan beginning April 1, while Clark to Busuanga flights will commence on April 2, both on a scheduled basis.
Secretary Frasco said the new routes will surely boost the country’s domestic and international tourism as they provide added connectivity to the country’s in-demand tourist destinations.
“After months of our continuous discussions with relevant aviation agencies and stakeholders such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines, we welcome these additional flights as it serves the Marcos administration’s efforts to vastly improve tourism connectivity and spread economic opportunity nationwide” the tourism chief said in a statement.
“These flights will further invigorate the growing interest in our destinations among both domestic and international tourists, and further add to livelihood and employment opportunities for our tourism stakeholders
and frontliners,” added the DOT chief.
Frasco also cited that in 2022, the industry generated over Php214 Billion in estimated revenues and created 5.2 million tourism-related jobs.
Frasco noted that the reopening dates are very timely to meet market demand for flights to our key tourism destinations during the long Holy Week holidays.
In her first few months as tourism secretary, Frasco engaged in listening tours and discussions with various tourism stakeholders from the public and private sectors to align and properly act on the needs of the pandemic-hit industry.
The DOT, together with the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), airline executives, and other concerned agencies, met last January 25 to discuss the
enhancement of the utilization of the Clark International Airport.
Its purpose was to identify ways to increase flights into Clark, establish it as a viable alternate airport, and help in the decongestion of the country’s main gateway, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Currently, the airport is only at 12 percent utilization, receiving only around 80,000 passengers a month despite its eight million annual passenger capacity.
“DOT has been working with the DOTr pushing for the maximization of the Clark International Airport with the goal of establishing it as a viable alternate airport so it will be utilized to its full potential,” Frasco said.
“With the additional flights we meet a number of objectives: the de -
congestion of NAIA and minimizing crowding in other airports, as well as develop the region further and attract more tourism activities and businesses in the area,” the tourism secretary emphasized.
Further, the DOT regional offices welcome the Caticlan-Clark and Busuanga-Clark Inbound Travel Exchanges, interest for which was manifested at the DOT’s 1st North Luzon Travel Fair in November last year.
The event served as the venue for stakeholders from Regions 1, 2, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), 3, 4-B, 6, National Capital Region (NCR), 11, and 12 to meet in one venue or one-on-one business sessions to network and discuss marketing and promotions initiatives for each region’s tourism products and services.
The anticipated 139 port of calls from top cruise lines signals the readiness of the Philippines to claim the position as one of the regional cruise centers in Asia.
Department of Tourism (DOT)
Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco made the pronouncement on February 15 as she welcomed 317 guests and 415 mix of Filipino and foreign crew aboard the luxurious Silver Spirit at the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal, Manila South Harbor, in a show of support to the boosting of the cruise tourism industry in the Philippines.
The DOT-National Capital Region ensured that guests experienced the world-renowned Filipino hospitality as well as the country’s biggest colorful festivals, the Ati-Atihan of Kalibo, Aklan and the Higantes of Angono, Rizal, upon arrival of the passengers.
The classic song “Hinahanap Hanap Kita Manila” was also played by the Banda Kawayan orchestra to give guests a memorable grand welcome reception in the Philippine capital.
They will be touring around the landmarks of Manila, including the Spanish-built and historic Walled City of Intramuros and outlying destinations like Tagaytay before the ship leaves for the
country’s marble capital, Romblon, then on to Coron.
Silver Spirit is one of the luxury cruise ships of Silversea Cruises which prides itself with one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea, giving tourists a “superlative onboard adventure.”
“The arrival of this cruise into this port in Manila signals the resurgence of the cruise tourism industry as it is one of the first cruise ships that has docked in the Philippines,” the tourism chief said.
“This signals confidence as well in travel and tourism into the Philippines and we’re very grateful for the support of the City of Manila to open up its harbor to our visitors from all over the world and we’re hopeful that this arrival may signal many more in the year to come.”
“We are very grateful to our President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. for signaling to the world that the Philippines is open and ready for tourism and investments. With his policies geared toward making tourism a pillar of economic growth, we are more than ready and willing to support the operation of ultra-luxury cruise ships like the Silver Spirit,” Secretary Frasco added.
The anticipated docking of 139 cruise ships is a 36.27 increase compared to the
102 port of calls the Philippines received in 2019.
Among the luxury cruise lines that are expected to visit the country included Seabourn, Silver Sea, Regent, MSC Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Heritage Expeditions, Carnival Cruise, Costa Crociere, Coral Expedition, Holland America, and AIDA Cruises.
Citing the DOT’s National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy and Action Plan, the tourism chief said the goal of the Department is to increase cruise ship calls to various ports and islands throughout the country by creating excellent guest experiences and propelling economic benefits.
“Cruise tourism is one of our priority areas of development in the DOT as we look to expand our tourism portfolio to cater to all market segments,” Frasco noted.
“Our vision is to make the Philippines an attractive and diverse cruise destination offering high levels of customer satisfaction and cost-effective deployment for cruise lines operating from major home ports in Asia,” she said.
With the goal to expand the reach of the Filipino brand of service excellence (FBSE) across the world, the tourism chief
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added: “We will develop the Philippines as a major regional cruise center in Asia that supplies not only cruise ship experiences but also crew training, crewing, cruise line business outsourcing and cruise ship maintenance services in Asia.”
The Silver Spirit is the third cruise ship to arrive in the Philippines following the cruise calls of the Seabourn Encore carrying 512 passengers and 482 crew, and Silver Shadow with 320 passengers and 288 crew.
In an interview with the media, Frasco underscored that the arrival of cruise ships is highly anticipated for the tourism industry after long sea cruise voyages were halted by the pandemic for almost three years. Not only did it affect the revenue flows for the industry but also the jobs of hundreds of thousands of Filipinos working in cruise ships.
Filipino seafarers and tourism frontliners made up about 50 percent of the three cruise lines that have arrived in the country.
“About 181 of the over 400 crew in this cruise ship are Filipinos, signaling the Filipino Brand of Service
Excellence that Filipino workers are known for all over the world and so we’re very proud that this cruise that hosts different nationalities is being given a memorable experience through the Filipino brand of hospitality,” said Secretary Frasco.
“Nagpapasalamat din po tayo sa mga oportunidad na ganito dahil nabibigyan ‘yung ating mga kababayan ng oportunidad na mabalik sa kanila yung lahat ng nawala dahil sa pandemiya at sa iba’t ibang mga kalamidad. We’re very proud and thankful also to our Filipino crew, our Overseas Filipino Workers who continue to be tourism ambassadors for the Philippines,” the tourism chief added.
The expected Philippines cruise dockings across 46 island destinations, including Manila, in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with around 117 thousand passengers arriving For Manila alone is estimated to rake in millions of dollars in revenues, according to Frasco.
“The average spend is 100 dollars per cruise call per person and this year, we’re anticipating a minimum of 117,000 passengers across 139 ports of call. While these may be estimated
revenues, this shows the downstream effect not only upon our national government revenues but also upon our local government revenues. We have several islands as well that they will be visiting including Apo Reef, Balabac Island, Biri Island, Bohol, Boracay of course our gem, Claveria, Capul Island, Cebu and Central Philippines, Coron in Palawan as well as Puerto Princesa,” said the tourism chief.
Meanwhile, In Manila alone, 34 cruise ships are scheduled to arrive.
“It’s a very great opportunity for the City of Manila, for all other people not only local tourists but also international tourists to rediscover different areas or destinations here in Manila.
Manila is the hub for history and culture in our country and it’s about time that all areas in the city be discovered, not only Intramuros, Luneta, or even Binondo but all other areas. This is a way for the Department of Tourism and the City of Manila to work hand in hand so it’s a great opportunity for us,” said Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, who was present in the welcome reception for Silver Spirit.
The 2022 holidays have delivered further gains for the Philippine tourism industry as it breached its 1.7-million target by year-end with 2.65 million international visitor arrivals as of December 31, 2022.
This translated to Php208.96 billion or USD 3.68 billion in tourism revenue, a 2465.75 percent from the same period last year, the Department of Tourism said in a statement.
The new record has nearly one million additional visitors entering the country than the year-end target.
This was based on the monitoring conducted by the DOT from time the country has reopened its borders for all types of travelers in February until December 31, 2022.
This was when Filipinos abroad were expected to flock back to the country for the annual Christmas and New Year celebrations as well as visits from foreign tourists who chose the Philippines as their holiday destination.
Of the total 2.65 million international visitor arrivals last year, 628,445 were returning Filipinos while the bulk of 2.02 million tourists were foreigners from the country’s top tourist markets.
They came from the United States (505,089), South Korea (428,014), Australia (137,974), Canada (121,413), the United Kingdom (101,034), Japan (99,557), Singapore (53,448), India (51,542), Malaysia (46,805), and China (39,627).
In her New Year’s Eve message, DOT Secretary Christina Frasco expressed her elation on the achievements made by the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. just six months after assuming office.
Frasco said this clearly showed the gains of the Marcos administration’s support for tourism and the hard work of the entire tourism industry towards recovery amid the setbacks from the unprecedented crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“On behalf of the Department of Tourism, we wish you all a New Year filled with abundance, optimism, and hope. Moments of great difficulty are also moments of great opportunity,” the tourism chief said.
“In the past, we have overcome a global pandemic, survived various calamities, and thrived through a host of many other challenges, yet, the Philippine tourism industry has managed to exceed expectations and our tourism partners and frontliners continue to offer the best of Filipino grace and hospitality to the world,” she said.
Frasco also thanked President Marcos for his continuous support to the tourism industry as one of the drivers for economic recovery.
She noted that the efforts made by the Department, together with its partners, were part of the current administration’s vision for it to be a catalyst for the
Philippines’ economic resurgence not only in terms of job opportunities but investments as well.
“Therefore, we welcome 2023 with gratitude and excitement for Philippine Tourism to bounce back stronger than ever. We shall welcome with warmth and that distinct Filipino smile visitors from all over the world as they visit our award-winning beaches, experience the richness of our culture, and enjoy our world-renowned Filipino Brand of service excellence,” she said.
Meanwhile, the previous year has generated an estimated 5.23 million tourism-related jobs. There were also 11,989 DOT-accredited tourism enterprises as of December 29, 2022. A total of 25,770 tourism stakeholders have also been trained.
Last year, Frasco revealed to the media that the DOT is targeting 4.8 million international visitors in 2023 as its baseline but she remains hopeful that the Department will again surpass its targets just like the achievements done in 2022.
“We look forward to the continued convergence and collaboration of our tourism stakeholders — travelers, tourism players, national agencies, local government units, and host communities — in propelling our industry to the heights of becoming a tourism powerhouse in Asia,” the tourism chief enthused.
written by: THE WANDERING NOMAD – YUSOPH
IN a tale of legend that created the Lake Lanao -- the very source of identity of the Meranaws -- God commands Diabarail “go right away to the Seven-Regions-Beneath-the Earth and to the Seven-Regions-in-theSky and gather all the angels, remove Mantapoli and transfer it to the center of the earth.” This legend is foreign to most people just as much as Meranaw, “people of the lake,” is foreign to you. Perhaps what has registered is the Marawi Siege, which left the city in ruins in 2017. This event in this part of the country not only exacerbated negative perception about the people
and the area, but also degenerated its potentials for growth and for it to connect with the rest of the world.
More than the siege, there are more to Lake Lanao’s people, its beauty, and its promising offer to become a key destination in the South. But who really are the Meranaws?
Meranaws resides in the southern part of the Philippines in the province of Lanao del Sur. Majority live a modest life and are known for their metalcrafts, architecture, epic literature, and distinctive cuisine. Palapa, dodol, special tapay, tiyatag, and piyaren a badak are just a few of the delicacies that can
be found only in the province and will satiate every gastronomist-wanderer.
Their unique Okir, meticulously carved to various ornaments, decors, and armories, symbolizes Meranaw artistry. Their sophisticated and beautifully handwoven langkit is incorporated to both traditional attires like landap and modern clothing with different elements of okir motifs. The Aga Khan Museum holds a rich collection of Meranaw culture and traditions, while the musical instruments torogan, lamin, and kulintang tell a thousand stories of their past, present, and even future.
The province is also blessed with richness in terms of natural resources. Its capital city, Marawi, with a population of 1,195,518, is a bustling city known for its architectural charms and vibrant cultures with numerous masjeds (mosques) and cultural sites. The city sits atop a mountain more than 2,300 feet above sea level. It’s not surprising that some call Marawi the summer capital of the south.
The area is home to various unspoiled and unchartered beautiful destinations that will interest different types of visitors. Lake Lanao is one of the 15 “ancient lakes” in the world,
spanning 131 square miles, and is the second largest lake in the Philippines. It retains its ultra-oligotrophic and pristine quality and is home to various species.
Nearby Mount Makaturing and Mount Ragang are stratovolcanoes that only countable adventurers have been able to traverse. Mount Ragang, also called Piyapayungan and Blue Mountain by locals, is the highest point in Lanao with an elevation of more than 9,000 feet above sea level. Its majestic view from afar portrays a princess in her sleep -- no wonder locals call it “the sleeping lady.”
Despite its rich culture and natural resources, the full potential of Lanao del Sur province remains to be tapped. The regional and provincial government have been relentless in their efforts to strengthen peace and put in place necessary facilities, infrastructures, and business incentives, to boost investment from the private sector, and get the province connected with the rest of the world. Meanwhile. Lake Lanao and the Meranaws invite the world to come in and see their beloved home as a legend come to life.
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority has vowed to live up to its standards in making central Philippine’s premier airport a major gateway.
This developed as Mactan-Cebu was named Asia’s Best Airport among 200 airports in the Asia Pacific under the “5 million passenger category” in this year’s Routes Asia Awards in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Wednesday.
The Visayas’ premier airport was recognized for its effort to increase passenger traffic amid the global health crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) and other calamities.
“GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC) has always taken a two-pronged approach to route development: airline marketing to create supply and destination marketing to ensure the sustainability of its airline partners’ presence and address the demand for air services,” Routes Asia said in a statement posted on its website.
Routes Marketing recognizes the remarkable efforts of airports, airlines, and destinations during their 2022 streak as they carry out their recovery strategies for 2023.
Lawyer Tani-Angub Gaviola, Naomi Arcayan, Elmar Tagaloguin, and
Jemar Nietes received the award for the MCIAA while being accompanied by GMCAC’s Aines Liboro, Ivan Romano, and Inaki Ponio.
“Returning for the first time since 2019, the Routes Asia 2023 Awards recognizes the incredible work carried out by airlines, airports and destinations in 2022 along with their ongoing strategy for 2023,” said GMCAC in a statement.
Julius Neri Jr., MCIAA general manager and chief executive officer, cited the public-private partnership between the governing board and the airport’s private management in running the main gateway in Central Visayas and the support from the national and local governments.
“The airport got astounding support from the Department of Tourism and the Department of Transportation. We should thank (Secretaries) Christina Garcia Frasco and Jaime Bautista, for their support has made us move forward from the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic and Typhoon Odette,” Neri told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.
Neri also cited the support from the provincial government, saying that Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s policy initiatives on tourism, peace, and development helped to pump prime visitor traffic in Cebu.
He vowed to do more as he eyed to vie for higher recognition in a different category in next year’s award.
“It was the way we marketed the effort as a destination that dramatically increase the number of arrivals from zero after Typhoon Odette to 2 million in the later part of 2022. This is indeed a very perfect example of the public-private partnership between the MCIAA and GMCAC,” he added.
GMCAC Director Rafael Aboitiz, in a separate statement, said the recognition denotes their strong commitment to resume the pre-pandemic connectivity while carrying out strategies in both airline and destination marketing.
MCIA, the Philippines’ second busiest airport, is in a 797-hectare site in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island.
During the awarding night on Wednesday, DOT was also named the winner in the “Destination Category”, citing its “persistent in its efforts to partner with airports and airlines to reinstate discontinued routes and secure new air services.”
Singapore Changi Airport has been crowned the overall winner of this year’s awards, as Routes cited the hub’s increased traffic to 32.2 million passenger movements, from just 3.1 million passenger movements in 2021.
Dumaguete is a beautiful city located in the Philippines’ Negros Oriental province. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for some fun, Dumaguete has something to offer everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do and see in Dumaguete:
01. Visit the Silliman University Anthropology Museum: The Silliman University Anthropology Museum is a must-visit destination in Dumaguete for those interested in learning about local culture and history. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts, including traditional clothing, musical instruments, weapons, and household items, which provide visitors with a glimpse into the local way of life. The museum also showcases displays on the history of the university, which is one of the oldest American-established institutions in Asia.
02. Take a stroll along the Rizal Boulevard: The Rizal Boulevard is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The seaside promenade offers a scenic view of the ocean and the nearby mountains. Visitors can take a
leisurely walk or jog along the boulevard, stopping to enjoy a snack from one of the many food stalls. The boulevard also features several statues and monuments, including a statue of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero.
03. Visit the Casaroro Falls: The Casaroro Falls is in Valencia town of Negros Oriental, west of Dumaguete. Visitors must hike through a jungle for about 30 minutes to reach the waterfall, which is 100 feet high. The hike can be challenging, but the reward is worth it, as the falls are a stunning sight to behold. Visitors can take a dip in the natural pool below the falls or enjoy a picnic in the lush surroundings.
04. Take a boat ride to Apo Island: Apo Island is a small island located off the coast of Negros Oriental, and it’s known for its beautiful beaches and marine life. Visitors can take a short boat ride to the island and explore its underwater world. The island is home to a marine sanctuary, which is a protected area where visitors can snorkel or dive to witness the vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles that call Apo their home.
05. Visit the Bell Tower: The Bell Tower is a historical landmark located in the city center of Dumaguete. The tower was built in the early 20th century and was used as a watchtower to warn the locals of pirate attacks. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to take in panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The tower is also a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the sunset.
06. Explore the Forest Camp: The Forest Camp is an adventure park located in Valencia town and is popular for its zipline rides, natural swimming pools, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can enjoy a picnic under the trees or try out various outdoor activities. The park also features a restaurant that serves local cuisine, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
07. Take a trip to the Twin Lakes: The Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao are two crater lakes nestled in the mountains of Negros Oriental. Visitors can hire a boat to explore the lakes and enjoy a picnic on the shore. The lakes are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a serene and tranquil experience. Visitors can also go hiking and birdwatching in the area.
08. Hike Mount Talinis: Mount Talinis is the highest point of the majestic mountain range of Negros Island, popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts. The area features lush forests,
waterfalls, and hot springs for visitors to explore. Hiking trails range from easy to challenging, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Don’t miss the Valencia hot springs -- it’s an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and natural beauty in Dumaguete.
09. Spend a day at the beach: maguete has several beaches to choose from, such as Malatapay Beach and Dauin Beach. Visitors can relax on the white sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy various water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.
10. Try the local cuisine: Negros Oriental has a rich culinary tradition that visitors must experience. Some of the must-try dishes include “kinilaw,” a Filipino-style ceviche; “lechon,” a roasted pig dish, and the famous sans rival, a dessert made with layers of buttercream and meringue topped with cashews. There are plenty of local restaurants and eateries to explore and indulge in the local cuisine.
Getting around Dumaguete is easy with various transportation options available to visitors. The Ceres Bus Terminal is the main transportation hub of the city, located in the heart of Dumaguete.
From here, visitors can catch a bus to different parts of Negros Oriental and other nearby provinces. Ceres buses are the most common mode of transportation for travelers on a budget. The buses run on a regular schedule, and visitors can buy tickets at the terminal or onboard the bus.
If you prefer the privacy and flexibility of your own transportation, consider renting a car in Dumaguete. Salakyan Transport Services is a trusted rental company that offers a variety of vehicles to suit your needs and allow you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
To make a reservation, you can easily contact Salakyan at +63 969 330 1564 or visit their Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/SALAKYANtransportservices. Their friendly and efficient customer service team will ensure a seamless booking process.
The Philippines was awarded as the Best Dive Destination during the Diving, Resort, and Travel (DRT) show in Malaysia last February 24-26, 2023.
The country bested four other countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and Maldives) at the largest diving expo in Asia which provides industry stakeholders greater support and encourages more people to become passionate divers to champion marine ecology.
“The recent back-to-back wins for the Philippines highlight the beauty and the blessings our country has been endowed with, and we take great inspiration from our diving communities and dive stakeholders as we continue the collaborative work of ensuring not only the marketability but also the sustainability of our destinations,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
The Philippines was awarded World’s Leading Dive Destination in 2022 and is also defending its title this year as Asia’s
Leading Dive Destination at the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA). The title has been held by the country for four straight years from 2019 to 2022.
The tourism chief said the DOT will continue its efforts to develop and promote the Philippines as an ideal destination for all travelers, with the aim to enhance the tourist experience, strengthen and transform the tourism industry from the ground up, and with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. reiterating the important role of tourism in the country’s economic development post-pandemic.
Meanwhile, The Philippines’ co-exhibitors during the expo included Lalaguna Villas Luxury Dive Resort & Spa (Puerto Galera), Fisheye Divers (Boracay), Dolphinlee Aquatic (Malaysia-based dive agent), Moby Tek Dive (Malaysia-based dive agent), Kokay’s Maldito Dive Resort (Malapascua), Scandi Divers (Puerto Galera), and the country’s flag-carrier Philippine Airlines.
Around Php6.39 billion of the Php5.268-trillion national budget for 2023 will be used to improve the country’s tourism sector, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said in March.
In a statement, the DBM said the multibillion-peso funding is part of the Marcos administration’s resolve to promote the Philippines as a tourist hub and attract more foreign investments.
“A total of Php6.39 billion has been allocated for the tourism sector under the FY (fiscal year) 2023 National Budget to support the Department of Tourism (DOT) in its campaigns for the promotion of the Philippines as a tourist destination and to boost the interest of foreign investors in the Philippine experience,” the Budget department said.
The DBM issued the statement as it joined the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in providing support for the DOT to boost the Philippine tourism.
Meantime, the DOTr and the DOT
signed a memorandum of agreement to establish better airports and seaports, to improve the overall tourist experience.
The DPWH, through its Tourism Road Infrastructure Program, also allocated some Php17.69 billion for the construction and improvement of roads and infrastructure facilities in tourist zones.
The DOT is also keen on developing tourist rest areas, establishing tourism assistance call centers for tourist convenience, bringing tourism to the digital age and implementing fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to tourists.
Based on the figures from the DOT, the tourism sector has already recovered over 62 percent of its pre-pandemic flights and generated nearly USD4 billion (Php220 billion), contributing to the country’s GDP growth.
The DOT is hoping to exceed the current tourism numbers.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, in a recent event in Tokyo during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s five-day working visit to Ja -
pan, said the administration’s priority expenditures, including “Build Better More” infrastructure program, will improve the overall tourism experience in the Philippines.
Pangandaman, the DBM said, acknowledged the “great contribution” of both the Japanese investors and tourists to the Philippines’ economic growth.
“The Japanese [people] love leisure and recreation so we are enticing them to visit the Philippines more,” the Budget chief was quoted as saying.
Under the 2023 national budget, the “Build Better More” program is given around Php1.3 trillion, which is equivalent to 5.5 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).
The bulk of the Php1.3-trillion budget will go to physical infrastructure, covering the construction and maintenance of road networks (Php 478.7 billion) and railways (Php40.1 billion).
Social infrastructure will also be prioritized, allocating around Php29.2 billion for school buildings and Php14.4 billion for hospitals and health centers.
An estimated two million devotees and revelers alike on January 16 celebrated the Sinulog for the feast of the Santo Niño at the South Road Properties in Cebu City, after a two-year hiatus and unmindful of the sweltering heat of the sun—and almost a week of controversy over the change of venue of the festival.
Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama opened the One Cebu Island Sinulog 2023 grand parade that gathered contingents from the city and different barangays.
About 1,700 police forces from the Cebu City Police Office helped secure the venue, augmented by security personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Navy, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The Philippine National Po -
lice said about two million people came to the Queen City of the South to witness the Sinulog Grand Parade, including local and foreign tourists.
On Jan. 14, over three million people – residents and tourists alike– participated in the fourhour solemn foot procession for the feast of the Santo Niño De Cebu.
“It was generally people. It was the first time to have another Fiesta Señor, since in the past years we did not have it,” said CCPO director Col. Ireneo Dalogdog.
A grand fireworks display that lasted about 20 minutes capped the dance showdown and parade on Jan. 15.
In Tondo, Manila, and Bago Bantay, Quezon City, residents filled the streets for festivities to honor the Santo Niño.
A mass was celebrated at the Santo Niño de Tondo Parish at
Sunday midnight, followed by a motorcade at 4 a.m.
In Bago Bantay, a grand procession marked the celebration Saturday evening, with devotees seen carrying the image of the Child Jesus.
Another procession was held the morning of Jan. 15, followed by the fiesta Mass presided over by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco.
Best in Ritual Showdown
Free Interpretation Category
Champion
Omega de Salomera-Surigao de Norte (P1 Million prize)
1st Runner Up
Lumad Basakanon (P700,000)
2nd Runner Up
La Castillana, Negros Occidental- (P500,000)
3rd Runner Up
Barangay San Roque Syudad (P300,000)
4th Runner Up
Tribu Mabolokon (P200,000)
Best in Ritual Showdown
Sinulog Based Category
Champion
Inayawan Talent Guild and Cultural Group (1 Million)
1st Runner Up
Barangay Tejero (700K)
2nd Runner Up
Banaun Cultural Group (500k)
3rd Runner Up
Banay Labangon (300K)
4th Runner Up
Alpha Kappa Rho Cebu Supreme Council (200K)
Best in Costume - Sinulog-based
Inayawan Talent Guild and Cultural Group
Best in Costume - Free Interpretation
Omega de Salomera - Surigao de Norte
Best in Street Dancing
Champion
Surigao del Norte
1st Runner Up
Lumad Basakanon
2nd Runner Up
Banay Labangon
3rd Runner Up
Banauan Cultural Group
4th Runner Up
Tribu Mabolokon
Best in Musicality - Free Interpretation
Champion - Lumad Basakanon
1st Runner Up - Surigao del Norte
2nd Runner Up - Barangay San Roque
3rd Runner Up - La Castellana, Negros Occidental
4th Runner Up - Hugpong sa Kabatan-unang Tisaanon
Best in Musicality - Sinulog Based
Champion - Inayawan Talent Guild and Cultural Group
1st Runner Up - Barangay Tejero
2nd Runner Up - Banay Labangon
3rd Runner Up - Banauan Cultural Group
4th Runner Up - Alpha Kappa Rho Cebu Supreme Council
Best in Float
Alan Tangcawan
MUFG also believes that returning Filipinos will likely provide another source of travel receipts.
For this year, the Philippine Travel Agencies Association is expecting international visitor arrivals to approach pre-pandemic levels of 8.26 million in 2019.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees a 78 percent jump in tourist arrivals to at least 4.8 million from 2.7 million last year.
“The positive impact on the Philippines will likely be modest, due to the economy’s primary reliance on domestic private consumption. The improvements from tourism, further boosted by travel from China, will likely benefit all tourism related sectors,” Ng said.
Tourism receipts in the Philippines could double this year, as the sector benefits from the return of Chinese tourists, according to MUFG Bank Ltd of Japan in a Philippine Star report.
Jeff Ng, senior currency analyst at MUFG, said in its ASEAN tourism outlook titled “The Return of Chinese Tourists in 2023,” that travel receipts in the Philippines could hit anywhere from $6 billion to $8 billion this year compared to the projected $4 billion last year.
The country’s gross travel receipts hit $1.26 billion in the third quarter of last year, 52 percent of the third quarter 2019 levels.
“Given current trends, we anticipate broader upsides in 2023. Gross travel receipts may hit $6 billion to $8 billion in 2023, higher than an expected $4 billion in 2022 and catching up to $9.8 billion in 2019,” Ng said.
Ng explained that Philippine and ASEAN economies have been benefitting from the reduced COVID-19 restrictions over the past year that has led to a partial recovery in the tourism sector.
“Since the recent removal of restrictions in China, we believe that China-ASEAN travel will be the dominant theme in 2023. This comes after intra-ASEAN travel
recovery in 2022,” Ng added.
He said the impact would likely be more evident in the second half of this year with the anticipated progressivity for the coming months.
Last October, President Marcos approved the lifting of COVID-19 test requirements for incoming visitors, as well as lifting the mask wearing mandate for indoor settings, effectively ending lockdown protocols.
Visitor arrivals represented only three percent of pre-pandemic or 2019 levels in December 2021, but climbed to 56 percent by December 2022. This was supported by ASEAN tourists at 55 percent of 2019 levels.
Travel from China slightly improved in 2022, but not as rapidly as other regions due to China’s zero-COVID policies. Travel from China improved to 7.2 percent of 2019 levels in end 2022 from 0.9 percent in December 2021.
“The return of Chinese tourists will likely significantly benefit tourism in the Philippines. China was the second largest source of tourist arrivals in 2019 at 1.7 million or 22.2 percent of total. This greatly outweighed the 6.3 percent from intra-ASEAN sources,” Ng said.
According to Ng, the pace and magnitude of Chinese tourists’ recovery would likely be dependent on the domestic economic recovery.
“Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines are set to benefit from China’s reopening in 2023, both from the current account and from economic growth,” Ng said.
The Japanese investment bank said the Philippines could see a fairly balanced net travel receipts balance, after a deficit of around $500 million in 2022.
“The boost from China will likely be significant and outweigh outbound travel out of the country and the subsequent travel payments. This will be a positive shift away from the $7 billion of net deficit in 2019. In terms of the current account, we anticipate modest improvements compared to other major drivers,” Ng said.
MUFG is forecasting a narrower current account deficit of 4.8 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023 from 5.6 percent in 2022, benefitting the peso.
“The impact on PHP will likely be beneficial, although small. The currency will likely be primary supported by more stable yield differentials with the US, improvements in the current account, and commodity price movements,” Ng said.
Cebu’s newest vibrant escape. That’s what the owner of 88th Avenue Cebu had in mind when she first bought the land in 2010 that would house the serviced apartment hotel and commercial complex on Gov. M. Cuenco Ave. in the Queen City of the South.
Fast forward to 2023 and 88th Avenue still sets itself apart as Cebu’s first true luxury lifestyle district, in the heart of the city to boot. It still stands out from the other developments with its unique concept of elevated upscale living.
Combining both residential and commercial space with generous al fresco areas, 88th Avenue offers “just the right mix of everything,” as it declares on its website, which offers a peek into how it encapsulates the good life in Cebu.
But no thanks to COVID-19, that experience was in doubt for two long years. Ms Riza Hu, the Hong Kong based owner of 88th Avenue, told
PRJ Tourism in an exclusive interview that like all businesses across the world, the future was quite murky, as the pandemic crippled the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries.
“Prior to COVID, everything was on track. We knew what the market was, who our competition was, what our roots would be like. We knew once we opened, filling our apartments and commercial space should be fairly comfortable,” Ms Hu said.
And “comfortable” is what 88th Avenue is all about -- a home away from home for travelers who can stay for as long as they like or need, as they take in the second-most developed city in the Philippines after Manila that offers just the right mix of everything.
From world-class diving spots just minutes away from an international airport to resort-like residences right in the middle of the business district, Cebu has
01. The smallest of 88th Avenue’s Penthouse Suites has one single bedroom plus two large double-bedrooms, each with ensuite toilets and super-king-size beds with memory foam mattresses. The rooms are suffused with natural light in a modern contemporary design setting. The master bedroom also has sunken lounge area with a white leather sofa and a 50”smart flat-screen TV, all within a floor-to-ceiling glass panoramic setting overlooking Cebu Business Park and Ayala. The spacious open living/dining area has a dining table for eight, a 65” smart flat-screen TV in the living room, and fully equipped kitchenette.
02. The 88th Avenue Standard Studio Suite is spacious, bright with a balcony and great views of Cebu and Mactan Island. Perfect for 1 or 2 guests looking to stay for leisure or work, it is modern and contemporary in design, fully furnished with a super king-size bed with memory foam mattress, 50”smart flat-screen TV, kitchenette, and sofa.
transformed itself into a lifestyle hub that could rival major cities in Asia and around the world.
To do that, however, a tourist or long-stay professional needs the perfect base of operations -and that’s the affordable luxury 88th Avenue provides with its fully furnished suites and an excellent mix of commercial tenants, together providing a high level of “lifestyle living” for every visitor to Cebu City.
The development pulls clients in with the comfort of its well-appointed studios, one and two-bedroom suites, and luxurious penthouses. The accommodations at 88th Avenue truly offer stylish contemporary living, with working spaces and the ease of hotel services, including 24-hour reception, a fully-equipped gym, housekeeping, and more amenities.
Its standard studio suites, for example, are spacious (at 29 square meters) and bright, with a balcony and great views of Cebu and the island of Mactan -- perfect for one or two guests looking to stay for leisure or work.
Modern and contemporary in design, all rooms at 88th Avenue are fully furnished with a super king-size bed with memory foam mattress, 50-inch smart flatscreen TV, kitchenette, and sofa -- essentials for anyone craving a staycation.
For the more adventurous guest, 88th Avenue offers housekeeping
and 24-hour security for their rooms, and when they step out, they have easy access to an array of local restaurants, cafés and bars, coffee and milk tea shops, hair salons and beauty houses in the commercial area below.
Moreover, every hotel guest over the age of 16 has free usage of the guests-and-members-only 88th Fitness facility, plus the male and female saunas and rooftop jacuzzis, for the duration of their stay.
Located on the second floor of the residential area, 88th Fitness has one of the best hotel gyms in Cebu, fully equipped with free-standing weight machines, a full rack of dumbbells, two elliptical machines and three treadmills, with showers and a sauna in each male and female changing room.
Meanwhile, 88th Avenue’s unique pedestrian-only commercial escape, offers local and international restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues, all located in a garden oasis. With basement parking for over 200 cars, this vibrant area is truly unique to the City of Cebu. It is very family-orientated, and completely safe for children to run around and enjoy such features as its swing chairs and bean bags. Parents can relax while dining, knowing their children are safe, with no cars around, which is standard throughout most developments in Cebu. It also now provides live acoustic music, from local bands playing every Thursday to Sunday nights, which visitors to 88th can enjoy between
7 to 10pm.
All these amenities have allowed 88th Avenue to remain the preferred destination of its guests even with the growing trend of serviced apartments not just in Cebu, but throughout the world, says Ms Hu.
“Particularly in Cebu, a lot of people traveling to Cebu are either travelers or businessmen, and the point of having a serviced apartment hotel is just giving you a bit more feeling of home away from home – a bit more space with a kitchenette and a sofa to sit on,” she tells PRJ Tourism.
“Sometimes hotel rooms can be quite a lonely place with just a bed and toilet. We wanted to create somewhere you could stay for one, three, or five nights --- or choose to stay three to six months or a year. That’s when we decided to turn (88th) into a serviced apartment hotel. I don’t think there were actually many here in Cebu, but now in the last few years more have appeared,” Ms Hu adds.
Another outstanding factor that led the owner to develop 88th Avenue into its own pocket world of luxurious comfort is Cebu’s growing – if not monstrous – traffic problem, Ms Hu says. Apart from its own amenities, the development is just across Cebu’s bustling IT Park, with the verdant Ayala Center Cebu just up the road on M. Cuenco and Cebu Country Club behind it – provided one is a golfer or has friends that can give them entry to it.
03. CookPub in 88th Avenue’s commercial area is a modern Korean bistro and a family restaurant, complemented with its signature 5-star service, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. It offers an extensive menu of authentic Korean dishes with touches of East-meets-West cuisine and local Filipino fare.
04. Located on the second floor of 88th Avenue’s residential area, 88th Fitness has one of the best hotel gyms in Cebu, fully equipped with free-standing weight machines, a full rack of dumbbells, two elliptical machines and three treadmills, with showers and a sauna in each male and female changing room.
The central location of 88th Avenue, Ms Hu stresses, keeps its guests from sitting for an hour in taxis winding through Cebu’s clogged streets trying to find the right place to eat, drink, or just relax.
“We saw that apart from Ayala, SM, or the big shopping malls, most developments (in Cebu) had one or two nice businesses. What we wanted to try and do was create an area with as many as four or five (businesses), so that if groups of people were undecided, they had a better option: ‘Okay, let’s go to 88th.’ So, we have some bars, a late-night club, four to five different types of restaurants, coffee shops, a place to get your hair done with beauticians, we try to get that mix, that’s what we wanted,” she says.
Indeed, apart from the pandemic, which 88th Avenue has weathered quite well, its biggest challenge presently is finding that right mix of tenants to fill its last few open commercial areas – and there is no shortage of suitors for that, Ms Hu says.
“From a business point of view, the company is in a very healthy position. The challenge is in waiting for the confidence in the market to increase, but from the commercial side, business has definitely picked up. We have some available (tenant) space purely of our own making; we’ve
turned down many companies that contacted us simply because they’re not the right mix, or we already have that type of business,” she adds.
Meanwhile, 88th Avenue is set up for the long haul, as the world emerges from the shadow of the pandemic and expatriates and Filipinos alike once again flock to Cebu for business, pleasure, or both. The city in the heart of the Philippines “is changing so quickly,” Ms Hu notes, that the area where their development is standing barely resembles the one she first stood on 13 years ago.
“Cebu in the last 20 to 30 years has seen nothing but growth. Obviously with COVID coming along, there was a stop to that, but it was the same for everybody,” she says.
“The problem for Cebu is traffic, it’s a big worry for everybody, so that has a lot to do with the design of 88th Avenue. What we tried to make it was a one-stop place, an urban retreat where you don’t have to move, don’t need a car with the IT Park just across from us with lots of offices and buildings,” Ms Hu says.
“The type of person we were looking for (as customers) preCOVID, and even now and in the future, is the executive, the worker, the businessperson. Lots of these businesses (in Cebu) are
place to stay -- and if they can stay somewhere they don’t have to get into a taxi, not sit in traffic, with a nice room, nice restaurants and places to drink, while just walking to the office, that’s where 88th comes in.”
In Ms Hu’s own words, 88th Avenue is that unique development that, even five to 10 years down the road, has “so many boxes that we tick. We’re the sum of all our parts, a combination of everything. We’re part of the enjoyment (of the city), and one of best places in Cebu, definitely a landmark.” In short, it’s a standout development in a great location.
Liloan town in Cebu province has a lot going for it these days. The first-class municipality is bouncing back strong from the COVID-19 pandemic and is on the verge of becoming a city itself -- like its western neighbor, Cebu City -- once a bill to that effect pending in Congress is signed into law.
Christina Garcia-Frasco, the town’s former mayor, also helped vault Liloan into the national spotlight once she became the campaign spokesperson of eventual Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio. A few months later, the daughter of Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia did one better, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed her as Tourism Secretary.
Thanks to the homegrown Duros Group of Companies, Liloan has one more reason to be proud of – One Tectona Hotel, the tallest structure in town that is billed as the first premium golf destination hotel in Northern Metro Cebu that aims to deliver five-star service.
Tectona philippinensis is the scientific name of the Philippine teak tree that abounds in Liloan, particularly in Barangay Yati (the Visayan name for the hardwood plant) where One Tectona Hotel is nestled, in the middle
of the Woodlands Park Residences enclave also developed by the Duros Group.
But why the golf connection, you say? Duros Group founder and chairman Rafaelito “Lito” Berino is a certified linksman – so much that he designed and built the par-72 Liloan Golf Course and Leisure Estate five kilometers away from the hotel, which in turn is meant to host golfers and their families before and after they hit the greens.
Unveiled in a soft opening ceremony last Feb. 24, One Tectona is the flagship of the Duros Hotels arm of the group led by Mr. Berino and his wife, Duros Group president Fe M. Berino. They also built the Cebu Quincentennial Hotel and The Padgett Place Deluxe Suites in downtown Cebu City, and the Duros construction pedigree shows in every inch of the 14 floors and 102 rooms of One Tectona. (The Berinos also revealed they plan to erect a 100-room hotel near the airport in Panglao, Bohol.)
Even non-golfers, local tourists, and Cebuanos themselves who want to get away from the frenetic pace of Cebu City will appreciate the One Tectona experience. It feels very much like an expanded golf clubhouse, from the
open layout of its dining and guest areas on the ground floor down to its dimpled golf ball-inspired cups we were gifted as a token of our visit.
Going up to the Zen-inspired rooms, One Tectona doubles down on its forest feel with well-appointed wood paneling, accents, and furniture. Its balconies also open to the serene, verdant view of Magellan Bay, the Metro Cebu skyline, Liloan’s highlands, and the hotel’s two infinity swimming pools beside its clubhouse, which is open for events.
A gift bag full of rosquillos and other baked products from the town’s other famous business, Titay’s, only enhances the rooms’ welcoming vibe (disclaimer: we’re not sure this comes standard with every room in the hotel). But when in-room snacking on Liloan’s famed rose-ring cookies and complimentary coffee and tea is simply insufficient, Teak Modern Cuisine is more than up to its task of all-day dining for hotel guests, serving a parade of Filipino and continental dishes with fresh, locally grown ingredients.
One Tectona certainly has a lot more to offer than just Cebuano delicacies, Duros Hotels managing director Adie Gallares stressed when he sat down with our group of Manila-based journalists corralled by the inimita -
ble Pete Dacuycuy (with big props to homegrown Cebu Pacific, of course).
The hotel rooms come in Deluxe, One-Bedroom, and Executive Three-Bedroom variants, and those looking to stage their next meeting or convention will find its 80-seat Function Hall spacious and welcoming. The Executive Boardroom and Lounge will open soon for cocktails, date nights, and meetings or parties for 25 persons, Gallares added.
Those who want to get in the swing of things need not go to Liloan Golf (despite the free shuttle service going to and from the hotel), as Woodlands Golf Academy’s driving range is just a few steps from One Tectona and offers
experienced instructors to get the pesky hitch out of your, er, swing.
While Dad and Mom are “clubbing”, the kids could also try the pools, the state-of-the-art fitness center, the gameroom, and soon a bike trail that underscores the hotel’s health and wellness goals. Of course, with the right transportation, all of Cebu’s traditional offerings are within reach of One Tectona, and its exquisite beds are sure to put even the most wearied tourist to a sound sleep.
Ultimately, Liloan’s refreshing environs and the chance to play a round of golf without needing a club membership is what will bring
tourists – mostly Japanese, Koreans, Pinoys and their balikbayan relatives, hotel management says – back and again to One Tectona. It certainly helps that Cebu Pacific flies from Manila to Cebu 13 times daily, as well as from other cities across the country.
But in One Tectona Hotel, the Duros Group did not make just another boutique hotel experience; as their company name (drawn from the Latin word for strength) and their affinity for the teak tree imply, the Berinos have built a masterpiece that stands tall, one that aims to outlast the test of time and for all Liloan and Cebu to be proud of.
N e o m e t a s t a r t s i t s w o r l d w i d e u n i q u e p r o j e c t , w h i c h o f f e r s e v e r y o n e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o a l s o p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e b l o c k c h a i n s e r v e r m a r k e t . I t w i l l a l l o w a l l t h o s e i n t e r e s t e d t o b e a b l e t o p o s i t i o n t h e m s e l v e s i n t h e h i g h l y l u c r a t i v e s e r v e r m a r k e t v i a N e o m e t a . T h i s f o r m s t h e b a s i s f o r t h e e x t r e m e l y i n t e r e s t i n g s e r v e r a n d b l o c k c h a i n m a r k e t . N e o m e t a i s t h e p a r t n e r f o r s e r v e r s o l u t i o n s f o r a l l a s p e c t s o f t h e b l o c k c h a i n w o r l d a n d w i l l m a k e a s i g n i f i c a n t c o n t r i b u t i o n t o c r e a t i n g s e c u r e a n d e c o l o g i c a l f o u n d a t i o n s o n a n e w l e v e l .
N e o m e t a i s a t e c h n i c a l s e r v i c e p r o v i d e r i n t h e p r e s e n t a n d f u t u r e , s p e c i a l i z i n g i n t h e l a t e s t b l o c k c h a i n p r o j e c t s w i t h s u s t a i n a b i l i t y i n m i n d . T h e y a c t b o t h v e r y q u i c k l y a n d i n a n e n v i r o n m e n t a l l y f r i e n d l y a n d s u s t a i n a b l e m a n n e r . F o r t h i s r e a s o n , w e f i r m l y b e l i e v e t h a t o u r s e r v e r s l o t p a c k a g e s w i l l b e l u c r a t i v e f o r e v e r y o n e a n d a s s u m e t h a t o u r p r o j e c t w i l l a t t r a c t a l o t o f a t t e n t i o n w o r l d w i d e .
The Lokal is a joint “Swinglish” venture started by Phil Craswell (English) and Elin Lundvall (Swedish) in Dauin, Negros Oriental, about 16 kilometers south of Dumaguete City, the provincial capital.
The journey for this Asian food and beer garden began at the end of 2018. Frustrated by his frontline career in Paramedicine, Phil took a last-minute opportunity and headed to Yemen to provide medical cover for the United Nations peacekeepers working there. Returning to the United Kingdom was just not an option for him, and as such on completion of his contract he started seeking new options.
Phil and Elin both worked in Dauin back in 2012, and with no clear plan it seemed like a natural option to return to Negros Oriental. During late 2019, Phil was making multiple trips up and down the mountains in the area, seeking a plot to start a new life. As a foreign resident, while not impossible, it quickly became clear that buying the
dream plot would present a series of worrying challenges, and instead they decided upon a long-term rental of a plot directly on the highway in Barangay Lipayo, Dauin.
With a lifelong dream of owning a backpacker hostel seeming the logical option, plans were made, drawings created, permits acquired, and the future seemed clear. However no sooner was ground broken on the project when Covid-19 hit. These were uncertain times for many, but with no obvious end in sight, the pandemic had an unexpected desirable effect of taking the pressure off Phil and Elin, allowing for the project to be slowed down.
The finished design evolved during this time, with the changes raising the standards, and before they knew it, the idea of a backpacker hostel was replaced by a high-quality budget-level establishment -- and The Lokal Food and Beer Garden was born.
The lack of clarity as to when travel would be allowed again amid Covid
forced Phil and Elin to stall the project as long as possible. But by October 2021 there were no excuses -- the development had moved from construction to maintenance and there was seemingly no choice but to open the gates and invite the remaining customers from the region in.
To their surprise, the response was incredible. The opening of a new establishment in such difficult economic times was met with enthusiasm, and The Lokal quickly became a thriving hub for both locals and foreigners alike. Prior to its opening, Dauin was lacking options for a night out, and the Lokal’s ethos and mission statement has been to inject flavors from the wider region into the area, all while providing locally sourced entertainment.
Visitors now regularly enjoy fresh cooked food from a fusion-style Southeast Asian menu, as they listen to live music daily and engage with a staff team that Phil and Elin believe excels above the standards of the region.
The entire team works together to offer visitors an experience that is truly unique to Dauin. Set in its lush gardens, customers regularly comment about what a wonderful atmosphere the place offers, and the newly installed professional golf simulator adds yet another dynamic for customers to enjoy. With the accommodation still to be
developed, the future for the Lokal is exciting and offers plenty to keep the pair occupied. Those that know them well know that running a restaurant was the one thing they didn’t want to do. “I guess you should never say never,” Phil remarks as he and Elin appear to enjoy the challenges this business brings, and it is now the one thing that
is keeping the dream of a successful life in the tropics alive.
Open daily from 11 a.m., The Lokal staff are always ready to serve. Phil and Elin can often be found somewhere in the bar, especially on a weekend evening enjoying the party atmosphere -- and patrons may even get lucky enough to witness Phil join the band on stage.
N e o m e t a s t a r t s i t s w o r l d w i d e u n i q u e p r o j e c t , w h i c h o f f e r s e v e r y o n e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o a l s o p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e b l o c k c h a i n s e r v e r m a r k e t . I t w i l l a l l o w a l l t h o s e i n t e r e s t e d t o b e a b l e t o p o s i t i o n t h e m s e l v e s i n t h e h i g h l y l u c r a t i v e s e r v e r m a r k e t v i a N e o m e t a . T h i s f o r m s t h e b a s i s f o r t h e e x t r e m e l y i n t e r e s t i n g s e r v e r a n d b l o c k c h a i n m a r k e t . N e o m e t a i s t h e p a r t n e r f o r s e r v e r s o l u t i o n s f o r a l l a s p e c t s o f t h e b l o c k c h a i n w o r l d a n d w i l l m a k e a s i g n i f i c a n t c o n t r i b u t i o n t o c r e a t i n g s e c u r e a n d e c o l o g i c a l f o u n d a t i o n s o n a n e w l e v e l .
N e o m e t a i s a t e c h n i c a l s e r v i c e p r o v i d e r i n t h e p r e s e n t a n d f u t u r e , s p e c i a l i z i n g i n t h e l a t e s t b l o c k c h a i n p r o j e c t s w i t h s u s t a i n a b i l i t y i n m i n d . T h e y a c t b o t h v e r y q u i c k l y a n d i n a n e n v i r o n m e n t a l l y f r i e n d l y a n d s u s t a i n a b l e m a n n e r . F o r t h i s r e a s o n , w e f i r m l y b e l i e v e t h a t o u r s e r v e r s l o t p a c k a g e s w i l l b e l u c r a t i v e f o r e v e r y o n e a n d a s s u m e t h a t o u r p r o j e c t w i l l a t t r a c t a l o t o f a t t e n t i o n w o r l d w i d e .
La Carne at 88th Avenue in Banilad, Cebu City. is a Filipino-owned premium meat butchery brand, founded in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Thanks to La Carne, Cebuanos and expatriates residing in Cebu can now enjoy premium beef and lamb, traceable to top producers in the US and Australia, complemented by expert butchery services and delivery across the province of Cebu.
La Carne is the first and only multibrand retail store and family butchery licensed by Certified Angus Beef USA and Meat and Livestock Australia under its “True Aussie Beef and Lamb” brand offering meat with no antibiotics and no added hormones.
Jovy Tuaño, CEO of Asia Gulf Companies, founded the butchery brand in 2014 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. After much success serving the UAE community premium meat to their homes, Mr. Tuaño decided to open La Carne’s first flagship store outside of the UAE in Cebu.
Opening in his hometown is an homage to his mother, Thelma Lluch Badelles from Iligan City, who started a homebased meat business in the late ‘70s on Jakosalem Street, Cebu City before venturing into food service with Julie Gandionco (the founder of the popular Julie’s Bakeshop in the Philippines).
Although opening a store during the Covid-19 pandemic may be puzzling to some, Mr. Tuaño believed it was precisely the best time to open a business and serve the Cebu community with a premium commodity as people spent more time at home, exploring their kitchens and cooking skills.
La Carne aims to add to the existing butchery ecosystem in Cebu and enable residents to enjoy a premium steak experience at home by being a source of education in addition to culinary solutions and expert butchery services like roast tying, sausage making, fine butcher slicing, and knife sharpening.
Visiting the La Carne store provides a transparent view into how meat is prepared with love and care, as the butchery is mostly open and butchers can be watched as they prepare orders à la minute. The selection of beef and lamb offered at La Carne has been curated by butchers with more than 70 years combined experience in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Singapore, and the Philippines. The steak and burger selection is trusted by meat lovers from around the world, particularly from the Americas, Europe and Asia.
The La Carne Steak Bar was launched in January 2022, where seasonal ingredients are paired with La Carne’s butcher cuts in a casual setting. Delivery is available throughout the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and from north Liloan to south Talisay on the same and next day. Online ordering is encouraged with contactless payments on La Carne’s online store https://lacarne.ph.
La Carne is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10am to 7pm at 88th Avenue, Banilad. Steak Bar bookings can be made at https://lacarne.online/bookatable. La Carne also invites all Cebu meat lovers to join the La Carne Butcher’s Circle at https:// lacarne.online/subscribe to receive updates on promotions and new arrivals.
