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Condé Nast hails Phl islands as world’s top destinations
Readers of the world-renowned luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, Condé Nast, have personally picked the Philippines’ pristine islands of Boracay, Palawan and Siargao as their preferred islands among their choices. Based on the results of the survey, asking about half a million readers who registered to vote online, Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao placed third, sixth, and tenth, respectively. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco elated the good news, affirming how the world-renowned islands continue to mesmerize global travelers. “We welcome the resounding message tourists from around the world say: They Love the Philippines! From the charm of our islands, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, lush landscapes, rich heritage and culture, and the excellent hospitality of the Filipino people, the Philippine experience is always one that is filled with love and happy travels,” she exclaimed. According to Condé Nast Travel, some 600,000 readers who registered to vote took part in the survey conducted online, making the Readers’ Choice Awards sought-after by the travel industry and often seen to forecast travel trends. Taking the third spot in Asia, Boracay garnered a total of 90.74 points, while Palawan got 89.71, and Siargao with 87.37 in readers’ votes. Frasco said: “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and sustainable tourism efforts of our country, from our local communities, national and local government agencies, and stakeholders who have strived tirelessly to preserve and enhance the beauty of these islands.” Asked how this latest recognition will help position the country, Secretary Frasco said, “The awards inspire us to continue developing and promoting the Philippines as a premier travel destination in Asia and the world.” “Our commitment to sustainable tourism practices has not only captivated the hearts of travelers but has also contributed significantly to the growth of our nation’s tourism industry,” the Tourism chief concluded. It is said that Boracay and Palawan are no strangers on the said recognition, making an appearance in the list in the previous years. Last year, Boracay topped the list of islands in Asia, with Palawan ranking eight. The post Condé Nast hails Phl islands as world’s top destinations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tanduay optimistic about entry into competitive Taiwan rum market
Tanduay has a positive outlook about its entry into Taiwan amid stiff competition from other rum brands. “Based on early reviews, we think that the brand will perform well since the Taiwanese market already has a sophisticated taste and is very accepting of brands that offer them something new and unique,” said Marc Ngo, Tanduay International Business Development manager and senior brand manager. He compared the Taiwanese rum market to that of Singapore where people are willing to spend on quality spirits and cocktails. In entering Taiwan, Tanduay partnered with the distributor, Mr. Mixer, Ltd., one of the leading spirits and other liquor distributors in the country. “They believe in the brands and they share our passion for bringing our world-class rums to the Taiwan market,” Ngo said. Mr. Mixer, Ltd recently held a grand launch of Tanduay at Driftwood Bar in Ximending District and invited Taiwan’s premier mixologists Mars Chang and the members of “To Infinity and Beyond Team”, the 2021 World Class competition Taiwan champions, to showcase their outstanding mixology skills as they infused Tanduay rums into unique signature cocktails. Seven world-class rums Tanduay is making its award-winning and best-selling rums available in Taiwan. These include the Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, Tanduay Double Rum, Boracay Rum Coconut, Boracay Rum Cappuccino, Tanduay Dark and Tanduay White. Ngo said they are currently focused on opening and partnering with on-trade accounts to feature their brands and for consumers to try. “At the same time, we are having discussions with big chain accounts for them to carry Tanduay rums in their stores. We are also planning to join the Tainan Cocktail Event on 20-21 October to feature our brands more to local consumers,” he said. The brand’s international business has been on a steady growth trajectory in recent years. Taiwan is the 19th country where Tanduay rums are being sold. In Asia, it is already available in China, Singapore, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. In Europe it is being distributed in France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Austria, Poland, Georgia, Armenia and the Czech Republic. It is also available in the United States and Canada in Northern America and Costa Rica in Central America. Apart from its increasing global footprint, Tanduay has received numerous accolades from international competitions, such as the World’s Number 1 Rum recognition from Drinks International Magazine for six consecutive years, and Brand of the Year from the World Branding Awards. Not one to rest on its laurels, Tanduay is eyeing further international expansion in the coming months. The post Tanduay optimistic about entry into competitive Taiwan rum market appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Piso sale!
Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, is giving every Juan an early Christmas gift as it brings back its trademark Piso Sale in time for the BER months. From 7 to 10 September, CEB travelers can book their flights to select domestic destinations including Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Kalibo, and Laoag, and international destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Macau, Seoul, Singapore and Taipei for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of surcharges and other fees. The travel period will be from 1 April to 31 August 2024, allowing passengers to book ahead and score value-for-money fares. Aside from the Piso Sale, the airline is also offering a special 27-percent discount on CEB Transfers for all its routes serving Boracay, making travel to one of the world’s best island resorts much easier and more affordable. CEB currently flies to Boracay eight times daily from Manila, twice daily from Cebu, and six times weekly from Clark. CEB pioneered its trademark Piso Sale as early as 2004. Since then, many Filipinos have been able to fulfill their travel dreams and explore various local and international destinations through the airline’s signature promo. Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of add-ons. CEB also offers multiple payment options, including payment centers, credit or debit cards and e-wallets. CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 24 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. The post Piso sale! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Close business, gov’t collab spur growth — Pascual
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual is urging private entities to continuously work with the government in addressing issues crucial to economic recovery and growth. At the 3rd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council meeting in Cebu City last Friday, Pascual said the partnership between the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the APEC Business Advisory Council is actually regarded by the Philippine government as a cornerstone of its vision for the country’s future. “It exemplifies the power of synergy — when government and business come together and connect, we lay the groundwork for a trade environment that is not just functional, but inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. This dynamic collaboration enables us to stay agile and responsive as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology,” he said in a speech. In line with this year’s theme, “Equity, Sustainability, Opportunity,” ABAC Philippines focused on helping communities build back stronger through collective efforts. With critical goals to pursue, Secretary Pascual called for stronger partnership and collaboration among APEC Member Economies in crafting policy reforms that would spur economic growth. Areas of focus For this year’s work program, the ABAC will initially have these areas of focus: (1) Economic Integration Working Group; (2) Sustainable Growth Working Group; (3) Digital and Innovation Working Group; (4) Finance Task Force; and (5) Inclusion Task Force. Secretary Pascual has also commended the efforts of ABAC in shaping a strong, credible, and relevant World Trade Organization even as he recognized ABAC’s strong push toward the eventual realization of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. “The Philippines views the FTAAP as a mechanism to boost economic recovery in the region, especially for medium, small and micro-enterprises most affected by the pandemic. We thus support the immediate implementation of the FTAAP Agenda Work Plan which contributes to APEC’s sustainability and inclusion objectives,” he said. ABAC Philippines is currently focused on several initiatives including the promotion of the availability and accessibility of climate risk scenario information, the exploration of the viability of nuclear energy as a zero-carbon energy source, and other use cases under the Sustainable Growth Working Group. Further, it is working on enhancing cross-border data flow in financial services. For its part, the DTI is prioritizing (1) APEC’s Support for the Safe Passage of Maritime Crew in the Covid-19 Era, (2) Boracay Action Agenda to Globalize MSMEs, and (3) APEC Trade Repository. Aligned with this year’s ABAC meeting theme, the DTI aims to provide equal opportunities for all, promote regulations for environmental stewardship, and commit to fostering a digitally inclusive APEC community. The post Close business, gov’t collab spur growth — Pascual appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Transport hub to aid mall-goers
Megaworld Lifestyle Malls’ Lucky Chinatown’s transport hub is about to make travel easier for its customers going to and from the establishment. The mall, nestled in the heart of Binondo, has alleviated one of its customers’ concerns when it comes to its accessibility. The Filipino-Chinese community’s hub did not have a direct line to one of the bigger transport centers which is in Cubao, Quezon City. The transport hub has included additional jeepney routes going to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange via Taft Avenue and from PITX to Lucky Chinatown via Mabini. A van service has also been provided in the transport hub that goes directly to Sucat via the Coastal Road and vice versa. Lastly, TokTok riders were also included in the hub who can drop off customers at any point in Manila. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls is the retail and commercial development arm of Megaworld Corporation, one of the Philippines’ largest real estate companies. The Retail Asia Awards 2023 Marketing Initiative of the Year awardee’s mission is to make happiness and meaningful connections a lifestyle for its communities as the country’s premier developer of lifestyle destinations with exceptional designs, offerings, and experiences. There are currently 20 Megaworld Lifestyle Malls across the country. These include Eastwood Mall, Eastwood Citywalk, Lucky Chinatown, Uptown Bonifacio, Forbes Town, Venice Grand Canal, Newport Mall at Newport World Resorts, Southwoods Mall, Festive Walk Iloilo, Three Central Mall, Paseo Center, San Lorenzo Place Mall, Arcovia City, California Garden Square, The Clubhouse at Temple Drive, Greenhouse at Village Square Alabang, Alabang West Parade, Twin Lakes Shopping Village, Mactan Alfresco and Boracay Newcoast. The post Transport hub to aid mall-goers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
WFA in Boracay
The Wushu Federation Philippines will host the 52nd Wushu Federation of Asia Executive Committee meeting in Boracay today......»»
Sustainability from plant to shelves to every Filipino home
Procter & Gamble Philippines continues to integrate sustainable solutions in its product manufacturing and business operations so that its trusted and superior products are produced and delivered in more sustainable ways from plant to shelves, and ultimately into every Filipino household. One of the largest players in the consumer goods industry in the Philippines, P&G has stepped up to integrate sustainable solutions in its Cabuyao plant, which manufactures most of its products sold domestically. It purchases 100-percent renewable electricity and maintains a zero-manufacturing waste-to-landfill plant. It recycles over 300 metric tons of non-residual waste every year. P&G’s LEED-certified Cabuyao distribution center houses energy-saving facilities that feature the use of roof skylights, roof ventilators and automatic exhaust and supply fans that only run at specific times of the day to save energy during the cooler times. P&G’s offices and plants have also started converting their use of fluorescent lights to LED light fixtures, which use less energy than other types of light bulbs. The company is reducing electricity consumption by utilizing motion detector devices in its lighting fixtures in the distribution center to eliminate the possibility that the lights will accidentally be left on in the mega-facility. P&G also integrates sustainable alternative solutions into its product packaging. Safeguard multipacks eliminated its virgin plastic overwrap packaging to 100-percent recycled paper carton material, saving 8,500 kilometers worth of plastic waste every year, equivalent to one thousand times the length of the world-famous Boracay shoreline. Herbal Essences Bio: Renew Collection also uses 25-percent post-consumer resin for its bottle packaging. As it works on packaging innovations, P&G has also improved its product bundling packaging by converting single-use laminate-based bellybands and stickers to 100-percent FSC-certified papers, resulting in 66-percent less in bundling material usage and a 380,000 kg reduction in plastic waste. To further expand the company’s efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle waste in its business operations, P&G launched its employee-led Project LESS program in 2021 to provide better and more sustainable alternatives to other significant but often overlooked retail materials such point of sales materials. The initiative resulted in the development of “Flexi-POSMs”, which are collapsible, reusable and paper-based in-store displays. P&G’s flexi-POSM has a changeable visual structure that allows house brands to easily redesign and reuse the flexi-POSMs for other brand launches and initiatives. P&G launched a regional sustainability partnership with a leading e-commerce company to recycle used cartons from its Cabuyao plant for use as last-mile packaging in e-commerce delivery. Cartons converted into honeycomb-like protective wraps are now being used as replacements for the previous plastic bubble wrap paddings. The honeycomb-like protective wrap reduces usage of single-use bubble wrap plastic while providing the same quality of packaging protection. The beauty brand Olay also produced a “Ship-In-Own-Container” molded carton packaging for online purchases, eliminating the need for additional customization and last-mile packaging materials such as bubble wrap, fillers and tape. P&G Philippines was recently recognized at the 2022 Asia CEO Awards with the Sustainability Company of The Year’s Circle of Excellence Award. The award is given to organizations that achieved important success in environmental progress and demonstrated leadership and commitment to sustainability. The post Sustainability from plant to shelves to every Filipino home appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A patriotic act
The Philippines is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that relies heavily on the travel and tourism industry to bolster the growth of its economy. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the travel and tourism industry accounted for as much as 12.9 percent of the country’s gross domestic product. At the height of the outbreak in 2020, its share plunged to 5.1 percent after the lockdowns caused the closure of many businesses that resulted in massive job losses. When the situation began to normalize somehow, travel and tourism were again looked to revive the ailing economy. With the rebound, better facilities and services were needed to leave a long-lasting impression on visitors. With the recent electrical problem at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, the need for a major upgrade once again became the talk of the town. Last 1 May, a power outage hit Terminal 3, affecting 9,000 passengers, following a “fault current” or an abnormal amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit. This may have caused the circuit to trip and the power outage. Technical personnel of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) were quick to arrive and resolved the power outage. This was the second time this year that NAIA was in the news for all the wrong reasons. The first, on New Year’s Day, was when more than 200 flights were canceled, rerouted, and delayed after an equipment mishap triggered a breakdown in the airport’s Communications, Navigation and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management or CNS/ATM system. Following the twin incidents, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista vowed to conduct a full electrical audit of NAIA Terminal 3, as well as Terminals 1 and 2. Businessman and philanthropist Manuel V. Pangilinan or MVP, who currently chairs Meralco, patriotically offered to conduct a full electrical audit of the facility at no cost to the government. A full electrical audit will help the government find the problem, address it, and map out the projects needed to modernize and upgrade the terminal. “The good news is the group of Mr. Manny Pangilinan has offered to do a free electrical audit. I talked to them earlier. Maybe by Monday (8 May) we would have our first meeting,” Bautista said in English and Filipino in a radio interview on 2 May. Government support Even before the Covid-19 pandemic emerged, MVP had been supportive of the government, crafting initiatives geared toward nation-building. When Typhoon Odette hit the Visayas and Mindanao in December 2021, companies under the MVP Group extended assistance to the affected families, such as power restoration, relief packages, and financial assistance, among others. He has also supported the government’s goal of digitalization and achieving food security. Earlier this year, through Metro Pacific Investments Corp., the group acquired a 34.76-percent stake in Axelum Resources Corporation as well as a controlling stake in The Laguna Creamery Inc. The twin investments form part of MVP’s goal and priority “to feed our people first,” and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. MPIC’s subsidiaries have also embraced the digitalization of their operations and initiatives that encapsulate the group’s overall goal to be a leader in sustaining the country’s expanding digital landscape. His support for the public through his various businesses is a clear definition of patriotism for the country as not only will it support the government’s initiatives and goals, but ultimately, will provide better services to the public it serves. The post A patriotic act appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fact check: DOH did not recommend shutdown of resorts due to heat wave
The Department of Health did not recommend the closure of Boracay Island and other tourist destinations due to a supposed heat wave, contrary to posts circulating on Facebook......»»
Troubling issues by developers in Cebu City
The Island of Cebu was dubbed by the Conde Nast magazine as the Best Island in Asia, besting Boracay, the holder of the title for many years......»»
2 high-end KTV bars in Pasay shut down
Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano has ordered the immediate closure of two high-end KTV bars in Pasay City for violating the health protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Rubiano said that Matrix Club and 78 Club at Hobbies of Asia, Macapagal Blvd. were raided by the police at about 11:30 p.m. Friday after receiving a call that […].....»»
Retired US Navy officer proposes ship repair facilities in Subic
A decorated former United States Navy admiral has discounted the possibility of the reported plan to re-establish an American military base in the Philippines like the facility they used to share in Subic Bay.In an open letter to President Duterte, retired US Navy Rear Admiral Daniel W. McKinnon, Jr. instead suggests it would be a “good business” for the Philippines to embrace the idea of bringing shipyard jobs back to Subic Bay. McKinnon was reacting to the statement made by President Duterte during his State of the Nation Address last week where the latter flatly rejected the reported US plan to return to its former naval base in the Philippines. “I saw in the press that in your recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) you voiced concern about the United States Navy returning to establish a base in the Philippines, like the remarkable joint security facility we used to share in Subic. I believe I can assure you it will never happen,” the retired US naval officer said in his letter dated July 29, 2020.McKinnon, who was stationed at the former US base in Subic, said what can happen is that the US Navy can help re-establish a viable “commercial” ship overhaul and voyage repair, or even ship construction industry on historic Subic Bay. “And why not? It is neither war provocation nor threatening to the Philippine people,” the retired US Navy officer said.If approached to bring shipyard jobs back to Subic Bay under a public-private partnership, the Philippine government should embrace the idea, noting that the Philippines is a 7,000-island archipelago straddling a major artery of world commerce. “Repairing ships transiting that artery is only good business,” he said. He explained that the US Navy, and every sea power, commercial or naval, needs voyage repair. For decades the Ship Repair Facility (SRF) on the deep-water port of Subic Bay, and a similar facility in the port of Yokosuka in Japan, helped sustain the upkeep of ships far from home. He recalled having attended the opening of Philseco, a commercial ship repair facility at Subic City in 1981. The US bases, however, were closed in 1992 after the Philippine Senate rejected the extension of its tenure. The facility later became Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction, a commercial bulk cargo ship construction on the Redondo peninsula across the City of Olongapo. “It became of national importance, providing employment to the many skilled Philippine shipyard workers displaced when the US Navy SRF at Olongapo closed in 1992. It was sad to see Hanjin go into bankruptcy and the effect it had on Philippine families,” McKinnon said. In his open letter, McKinnon remembered back in 1968 when his naval ship was undergoing repair in Subic. “I and my friends became tourists. It was wonderful to attend a concert of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, visit the historic island of Corregidor, and learn to love ‘pancit’, both ‘canton’ and ‘bihon’. Doctors loved going into the small communities on Luzon providing family health care. Ships, both commercial and military, need voyage repair. Sailors go ashore, become tourists, and make friends.” Upon the closure of the SRF in Subic, the US Navy workload moved to countries like Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, among others. When the first United States military command was established in Singapore in 1991, it became a regional contracting center, not a base. “It was all about the conduct of business in Asia,” he said. While in Subic Bay, McKinnon was assigned as Director, Shipbuilding and Overhaul Contracts, Naval Sea Systems Command and Commanding Officer, Naval Supply Depot. He co-founded an organization that provides vocational training to unemployed young men, co-founded a foundation that supported the City of Olongapo hospital and orphanage, and later becoming an honorary citizen of the city.In his military career, McKinnon was a recipient of two Legions of Merit and the Navy Distinguished Service Medal and the Distinguished Service Medal of the US Department of Defense. .....»»
LIST: Saint movies to watch this Holy Week
YouTube offers free access to films on the lives of Catholic Saints in time for the Holy Week. .....»»
Philippines beats India for back-to-back wins in women’s Asia ice hockey tiff
The Philippine women’s ice hockey team picked up where they left off after their opening win in the 2024 IIHF Women’s Asia and Oceania Cup with a 7-0 shutout of India at the Bishkek Arena in Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday......»»
Survey shows Cha-cha still unpopular with Filipinos — Senate leaders
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that the findings of the survey by private pollster Pulse Asia, which was released on Wednesday, show that Charter change is an "unpopular move.".....»»
Unlock business success at Franchise Asia Philippines Expo
The Franchise Asia Philippines Expo 2024 is set to hold a series of dynamic seminars designed to empower entrepreneurs, investors and business enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the ever-evolving world of franchising. Slated from April 12 to 14 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, these seminars offer invaluable insights into key aspects of franchising and business growth......»»
Baltimore bridge collapse could lead to delayed shipments, higher shipping costs
The closure of the Port of Baltimore in the US following the collapse of the Baltimore key bridge is expected to lead to shipment delays and higher shipping costs......»»
Marian Rivera takes on projects that her children can watch
With her upcoming primetime show, “My Guardian Alien,” Marian Rivera has added sci-fi to the growing array of genres — from drama, fantasy, romance, and action to historical and comedy — that the Kapuso actress has successfully ventured into thus far......»»
88% of Pinoys oppose Cha-cha – Pulse Asia
Public opinion on Charter change, which last year was roughly divided among Filipinos, is now largely skewed toward those opposed to changing the country’s Constitution, a survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed......»»
Ati tribe fenced off in Boracay
Tension has sparked in Boracay after security guards allegedly fenced off parcels of land owned by members of the Ati tribe......»»