Philippines business travel guide

PHILIPPINES

Over 7,000 islands to choose from

T

he Philippines is a Southeast Asian nation consisting of 7,641 islands. It’s renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, emerald rice terraces and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

With so many islands to choose from, the Philippines caters to the tastes of many different tourists.

Adventurous travellers will enjoy playing at being 2 | Asia Outlook issue 42

Robinson Crusoe somewhere along Palawan’s deserted coastline or ascending the rugged peaks of the Sierra Madre mountains. Those who’re all about the beaches should head to the Visayas, where there are plenty of opportunities to island hop. Throughout the archipelago, surfing, diving and kitesurfing are popular activities.

Luzon is the largest and most populous island, home

PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE

S

at in the estuary of the Tagus River, Philippines is the westernmost capital city in continental Europe and serves as Portugal’s chief port, largest and capital city, and commercial, political and tourist centre.

It was once considered by Europeans to be the furthest edge of the known world before it became basecamp for the renowned Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries, Vasco da Gama being the most well-known.

The city is defined geographically by seven hillsides which overlook the river, these vantage points being a highlight for anybody’s visit. Much of the architecture is defined by a huge earthquake that destroyed much of Philippines in 1755, the rebuilding exercise that followed providing the template of what stands today.

As well as being scenically spectacular, Philippines is a crucial economic centre and lies on a strategic sea route. Its port is bustling with activity, handling a large proportion of the trade between Portugal and neighbouring Spain.

The city is also culturally one of the country’s most important hubs. Despite making up just three percent of Portugal’s landmass, the metropolitan area is home to more than a quarter of the nation’s population, owed much to the surge in migration from rural areas in the 1970s when industrial activity took off.

The 7,641 islands of the Philippines are a patchwork of different cultures, renowned for their smouldering volcanoes, white sand beaches and emerald rice terraces Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

to the sprawling capital Manila. However, even here you’ll find remote, mist-shrouded towns, volcanic mountains to climb and the lesser-explored Bicol region, renowned for its spicy food.

The islands consist of a patchwork of different cultures, having originally been populated by competing tribes.

Thanks to their sea-trade connections, the islands saw

migrants arrive from China, Japan, India and other Asian countries. Three hundred years of Spanish rule introduced Catholicism into the area. Now, Filipino culture is a blend of these different countries and traditions, making it a fascinating place to visit. Whether you enjoy active holidays or simply lounging on the beach, the Philippines will captivate you with its dramatic beauty.

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PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE

H O T E L A N D R E S TA U R A N T A S S O C I AT I O N O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S THE HOTEL AND Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) aims to take the lead role as the single voice organisation representing the Philippine private business sector in the hotel and restaurant industry.

It is comprised of several sectors, representing the many facets of the country’s tourism industry: the hotel sector; the restaurant sector; suppliers and academe.

Representing so many different organisations and businesses has its challenges. We sat down with Eugene Yap, President of HRAP, to discuss the association’s core activities, difficulties and goals.

Asia Outlook (AsO): Can you tell me about the history of the association?

Eugene Yap (EY): Back in 1951, the Philippines barely had a tourism industry. The nation had only one thing in mind – recovery from the war.

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Eugene Yap Amidst the rebuilding, there were only four hotels in Manila. There were no plush restaurants, just unpretentious family eateries. The only tourists were journalists and photographers, chronicling the bombed-out rubble of Corregidor and Intramuros.

The hotel owners struggled with issues such as employee theft, breakages and losses. Deciding to take a common stand, they founded the Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) in 1951, and officially registered the organisation with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It was reincorporated

for another 50 years in 2001.

Now, almost seven decades later, the association is a fully-fledged organisation representing the interests and concerns of the hotel and restaurant industry for the entirety of the Philippines.

AsO: Have there been any challenges for the association, either when it was initially incorporated, or today?

EY: We started when the Philippines’ economy was still recovering from the war. This was a challenge, but even so, the association’s members banded together to upgrade their management skills and services, and to keep up with trends abroad.

The country had begun to reap the rewards of these industry-wide innovations when the economy started to pick up. When tourists began to arrive in ever-increasing numbers,

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Rejuvenate with a massage at the Ibdiyan Wellness Center or stimulate your mind at the Adkos Gallery, which features artworks of local and national artists.

In Grand Sierra Pines, we take pride in providing an experience that can refresh the body and mind. That is how we redefine your Baguio experience!

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PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE

more five-star hotels were built.

These days our challenges are different. We have a problem with the swift turnover of skilled labour, due to increasing competition from other industries. Many hospitality business owners struggle to hire and retain staff.

Small businesses also struggle to keep up with technology-driven innovations and changing guest expectations. Competition by shared space providers is also disruptive, as many are not bound by the same rules and regulations as traditional establishments, making it easy for them to undercut pricing.

However, despite these difficulties, the warmth and friendship of Filipino hospitality never diminishes.

AsO: What are HRAP’s key visions and goals?

EY: Aside from being the single voice representing the Filipino hospitality industry, we also want to promote unity and cooperation both within and beyond the industry. We desire to encourage and foster high ethical standards in business, resulting in fair and honest competition. We also provide industry representation in matters of government regulatory policies and laws affecting the industry.

Another goal is to undertake programmes and projects that will upgrade and professionalise the industry – something that may, ultimately, prevent high staff turnover.

AsO: What are HRAP’s core activities?

EY: We have general membership meetings every quarter, allowing members to network with each other.

There are also sectoral meetings, which address specific issues faced by individual sectors in the industry.

HRAP has a commitment to training and education. In 1995, we collaborated with Singapore Hotel Association Training and Education Centre (SHATEC) to offer training and management programmes.

We concern ourselves with all issues affecting the hotel and restaurant industry, including but not limited to environment, governmental liaison, ethics, health, legislation, finance and more. As the umbrella organisation of the hospitality industry, we actively participate through consultancy and position papers.

AsO: Are there any products in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

EY: We hope to revive a project known as Chefs on Parade next year. It’s our flagship culinary competition project,

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The warmth and friendship of Filipino hospitality never diminishes which encourages and nurtures talented chefs and culinary artists to seek improvement in their craft and become world-class experts.

This flagship project is also inspiring other competitions by independent culinary organisations, helping create a dynamic, flourishing culinary scene in the Philippines.

Recently, we conducted a digital marketing workshop for our members through SHATEC and have lined up several modules for next year. This is to keep our members up to date with current global technologies.

AsO: Lastly, do you feel optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in the Philippines?

EY: With the current infrastructure of the government almost in place, hotels are now able to provide the country with more employment opportunities and create a better playing field for all the stakeholders in the industry.

The fact is, as long as there are people who invest in this country, who are willing to put up structures and invest in the hotel and restaurant industry, the only way to go is up.

THE PHILIPPINES’

TOP THREE UNESCO W O R L D H E R I TA G E S I T E S THE PHILIPPINES BOASTS six UNESCO-designated sites – three natural and three cultural – and a further 26 on its tentative list.

UNESCO chooses sites according to their cultural, historical or scientific significance, and they then become protected spaces. There are no shortage of stunning natural sites or cultural attractions in the Philippines, but these three places constitute the islands’ most iconic landmarks.

BAROQUE CHURCHES OF THE PHILIPPINES These four Baroque Churches – variously located in Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay and Miagao – were designated as a UNESCO site in 1993, thanks to their influence on architectural design in the Philippines. They were conceived of by Spanish missionaries, who wanted to build churches inspired by the architecture of their homeland.

However, since they weren’t trained in architecture or engineering, they

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had to rely on residents and Chinese migrants, who gave the Spanish designs an Asian twist.

The churches’ final designs were shaped by limited access to materials, and a need to rebuild after natural disasters such as earthquakes, leading to shorter churches with wide bases and buttresses – a style now known as Earthquake Baroque.

Inside, the churches are elaborately decorated, with biblical scenes incorporating island iconography such as palm fronds, or saints dressed in traditional Filipino attire.

THE IFUGAO RICE TERRACES These dramatic, emerald coloured rice terraces hug the steep contours of the Philippine Cordillera mountains, providing a breath-taking site. There are five clusters, located across four municipalities, each with slightly different patterns. For 2,000 years, they have been maintained by the Ifugao ethnic group, and have been passed on from generation to generation.

UNESCO states: “The Ifugao Rice Terraces epitomise the absolute blending of the physical, socio-cultural, economic, religious and political environment. Indeed, it is a living cultural landscape of unparalleled beauty.”

PUERTO-PRINCESA SUBTERRANEAN RIVER NATIONAL PARK This park is a protected conservation area, renowned for its different types of forest, and a karst landscape of sinkholes, caves, springs and mountains. What elevates it to UNESCO status, however, is its 8.2-kilometre-long underground river. This subterranean river system is important because it flows directly into the sea, making it a significant global phenomenon.

The cavern that houses the river is characterised by dramatic, eye-catching rock formations. As well as being a UNESCO site, it was also designated one of the “New7Wonders of Nature” in 2011. Unsurprisingly, taking a boat tour down the river is a popular tourist activity. However, despite its popularity, the park is excellently well-preserved.

Bacau Bay Resort Coron opened its magnificent doors to the public in March of 2019. Since then, this new slice of paradise has gained immense popularity as top luxury resort in the Philippines. Bacau Bay Resort Coron offers guests a sophisticated experience and an abundance of places to visit, shop, dine, and unwind.

Situated just 30 minutes away from the Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Busuanga Island, this 1.5 hectare resort bids travellers a marvellous holiday adventure.

Guests have the chance to explore wonders of the Philippines’ last frontier, and discover several beautiful sites at their own privacy, nestled nearby mangroves.

The resort was built with a medley of modern luxury and contemporary feel, dwelling with details and elements that capture Filipino hospitality at its best.

- SLEEP Rest from a whole day wander at Bacau Bay Coron’s luxurious rooms. The resort boasts 64 Deluxe Rooms, 15 Premier Suites, and a Presidential Suite with the coziest beds. It also melds the feel of a modern luxury room with a hint of contemporary sensibilities. Rooms range from 32sqm to 144sqm, each room has a balcony extension where guests can lounge as they watch the Coron’s beautiful sunset.

- EAT Satiate your appetite with the best cuisine at Bacau Bay Resort Coron’s Amihan Restaurant where dishes are masterfully prepared by skillful chefs. Guests are treated to a distinct dining experience with the restaurant’s array of international delicacies and well- loved local dishes. Pugon Café takes you straight to Italy overwhelming your taste bud with Italian dishes while enjoying the view of the resort’s mangroves and man-made beach. To cap off the night, guests can swing by at the Isla Pool Bar or at Serena Pier Bar while bonding with friends over delicious cocktails.

- DO Guests will never run out things to do in Bacau Bay Resort Coron! With its exclusive pier, island hopping has never been easier. Guests also have the exclusive access to a secluded portion of Paca Island, an extension of Bacau Bay Resort’s offers to its guests. For those who would like to take it easy and stay at the resort for a day, activity areas where guests can enjoy sungka (mancala), table tennis, badminton, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more, are incorporated within the resort’s 1.5 hectares of open green space and majestic mangrove plantation. While, for guests who would like to maximize their rest and relaxation period, they may go to the resort’s Alon Spa which offers a wide variety of massages and body scrubs.

For more information about Bacau Bay Resort Coron, visit: www.bacaubayresortcoron.com or email at reservations@bacaubaycoron.com

PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

MANILA

MANILA IS THE Philippines’ capital – a megacity with a greater metropolitan population edging towards 13 million. At first glance, the city is an overwhelming sprawl of malls, skyscrapers and congested roads. But look a little more closely and you’ll find a whole host of hidden gems, from crumbling ruins to hip new art galleries.

To delve deeper into the city’s

Spanish colonial past, head to Manila’s historic centre, the remnants of a walled city known as Intramuros.

Fort Santiago is a landmark bearing traces of the city’s troubled history – it was occupied by the British in the 16th century and used as a prison and torture chamber by the Japanese during World War II. You’ll find heritage churches and art galleries here as well.

If you’re getting hungry, check out Binodo – the oldest Chinatown in the world. The winding streets are home to hundreds of hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving mouth-watering Asian cuisine.

Manila has plenty of bars, museums and other landmarks for you to explore. There’s never a dull moment in this energetic city.

Come home to the

Best location in Manila Whether staying for business for leisure, the Makati Diamond Residences is ideally located in the heart of the Philippines’ business district, with easy access to many multinational corporations, shopping, dining and entertainment destinations.

410 guestrooms • 1,500 square meters of function room space • 24 hour restaurant and gym • Indoor lap pool • Club Lounge

MAKATI DIAMOND RESIDENCES

118 Legazpi Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City 1229 Philippines Trunk Lines +632 5317 0999 or +632 8878 9699 • www.makatidiamond.com Makati Diamond Residences

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS EAT: F O R H O M E - CO O K E D I TA L I A N S O U L F O O D… F O R B U D G E T T R AV E L L E R S …

Mama Lou’s is a business born out of a family kitchen in Las Pinas. It has now become Mama Lou’s Group, comprising two Italian concepts— Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen and Nonna’s Pasta & Pizzeria.

At the branches of both restaurants you can expect home-cooked Italian soul food, such as pasta vongole and pepperoni pizza.

F O R E AST M E E TS W E ST F I N E D I N I N G …

Blackbird at the Nielson Tower F O R F I L I P I N O F L AVO U R S …

Rural Kitchen of Liliw

SLEEP: F O R A N AT U R A L OAS I S N E A R CO R O N …

Bacau Bay Resort Coron is an upmarket resort, nestled in amongst the mangroves. You can expect luxurious accommodation and facilities, including a lavish spa and a lagoon-like outdoor pool. The resort also has its own private pier and dive school, so you can explore local attractions both across and under the water.

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F O R A N E XC LU S I V E B E AC H F R O N T LO C AT I O N …

Crimson Resort and Bar Boracay has an enviable location on a pristine white sand beach. It has a minimalist design – venues such as the Pavilion have glass doors and walls, offering panoramic views of sea and sky. Guests stay in luxurious accommodation – we especially recommend the villas, which have their own private plunge pools.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS F O R E L E VAT E D B U S I N E SS T R AV E L …

Makati Diamond Residences is a chic hotel located in Manila’s Central Business District. The F O410 R Bluxury UDGE guest T T Rrooms AV E Lhave L E RaSmodern … design and amenities, including a fully equipped kitchenette.

Guests can enjoy an elevated hotel experience with the hotel’s 24-hour gym, an indoor lap pool and a restaurant serving American-inspired cuisine.

A business centre and function rooms are available to hire.

F O R M O U N TA I N TO P LUXU RY… Sierra Pines Baguio Hotel is our top pick for Baguio, located in spacious, forested grounds in a quiet city suburb. The hotel offers deluxe rooms and fantastic facilities, including a spa and wellness centre, and a gallery displaying works by Filipino artists. You’ll love dining in the onsite steak house, or tucking into Filipino comfort food at the airy Atrium Lobby Café.

F O R ST Y L E A N D CO N V E N I E N C E …

Mella Hotel is located in Las Pinas, mere minutes from Manila’s international airport. Both business travellers and families will love the stylish and comfortable rooms, the lavish spa and the outdoor swimming pool. The hotel can cater to a variety of events, thanks to its tech-enabled meeting rooms and conference halls.

DO: F O R S C U B A D I V I N G I N C E B U… Kontiki Divers F O R P L AY I N G AT B E I N G A M E R M A I D… Philippines Mermaid Swimming Academy F O R L E A R N I N G H OW TO CO O K F I L I P I N O F O O D… El Kusina El Nido 14 | Asia Outlook issue 42

Discover Local

Contact Details C5 Extension, Global South, Las Piùas City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1742 Tel (+ 632 ) 8882 – 8181 mellahotel.com

VULCAN POINT A tiny island in the middle of a large lake in the middle of a volcano, located on the island of Luzon

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S

BARRACUDA LAKE A shimmering turquoise lagoon, where underwater temperatures can rise to 38ËšC

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PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE

GETTING THERE AND AROUND THE PHILIPPINES IS a popular tourist destination, with frequent international flight connections. The largest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport near Manila, which handled 42 million passengers in 2017. More than 30 airlines offer direct flights to destinations ranging from Hong Kong to New York.

Air Asia, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific are the three largest domestic carriers, offering scheduled flights to destinations across the archipelago. The islands are also linked by a network of ferry routes, ranging from multi-decked passenger ferries to “bangkas” – small, motorised outriggers.

Get around cities using metered taxis or use local jeepneys – jeeps left behind after World War II, customised with religious art, neon-coloured paintings and colourful headlights.

CADLAO ISLAND A gorgeous island renowned for its white sand beaches and coral gardens

PHOTO BY BY MITHRIL CLOUD AT ENGLISH WIKIPEDIA, CC BY-SA 3.0

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joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 676 jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 668 krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 682 matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 669 w w w. o u t l o o k t r a ve l m a g . c o m