DOT advises public to ‘travel wisely’ this Holy Week
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is advising the public to “travel wisely” to ensure safety during the Holy Week celebrations. “Travelers needing accommodation, tours, transportation, and other tourism-related services are strongly advised to patronize DOT-accredited tourism enterprises. Accreditation by the DOT recognizes establishments as having complied with the department’s minimum standards set.....»»
Travel agencies group warns about cheap, illegal operators
The Davao Travel Agencies Association (DTAA) has issued a warning about unregistered and illegal travel and tour operators in their area. These operators have been found to be offering travel and tour services without proper licensing, leading to issues such as lack of refunds, scheduling problems, and other travel arrangement discrepancies. Pia Partoza Montano, a travel agency owner and Vice-President for the Travel and Tours Sector of DTAA, emphasized the prevalence of these unauthorized operators, particularly in inbound tourism, and the challenges in monitoring and regulating them due to their large numbers. Montano also highlighted the potential risks associated with using these unregistered agencies, as they may offer cheaper rates but could lead to problems in case of incidents. To address this issue, the Department of Tourism-Davao (DOT-Davao) has introduced a QR code system to help the public verify the legitimacy of travel agencies by accessing data on authorized and registered operators. The DOT-Davao encourages travelers to transact with accredited enterprises to ensure the quality and reliability of their travel arrangements. Currently, there are at least 109 registered travel and tour agencies in Davao City under DOT-Davao's accreditation. The DOT-Davao also provides information on the requirements for registration and renewal for travel agencies on their official website. This warning serves as a reminder for the public to be cautious and discerning when engaging with travel and tour operators to avoid falling victim to unauthorized and illegitimate services......»»
10th ID bashes Canadian gov’t for travel advisory vs Mindanao
The 10th Infantry Agila Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army criticized the Canadian government for issuing a travel advisory against all parts of Mindanao, which includes their area of responsibility. Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the 10th ID, emphasized that the regions under their jurisdiction are peaceful and free from terrorism and violent threats, contrary to the Canadian embassy's advisory. The division oversees 12 provinces, seven cities, and 72 municipalities in various parts of Mindanao. Tito expressed bewilderment at the basis of the travel advisory, asserting that the Canadian government lacks awareness of the actual situation on the ground. He highlighted the peaceful nature of the entire Davao Region throughout 2023, with no recorded incidents of terrorism or insurgency. Despite the exclusion of Davao City from the advisory, Tito noted that the region would still be impacted. The Canadian embassy's advisory warned its citizens to avoid visiting Mindanao due to ongoing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, high levels of violence, and encounters between rebel forces and government security authorities. Specific provinces and regions were singled out for caution or non-essential travel, including Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Eastern Mindanao. Contrary to the advisory, the 10th ID has been actively weakening and eliminating guerilla forces within its jurisdiction as part of the Philippine Army's efforts to establish an insurgency-free zone. In fact, on October 27, 2023, the Davao Region celebrated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free region in the Philippines. This dispute has led to other related stories, including the Chamber's intention to engage in discussions with the Canadian government regarding the travel advisory, as well as refutations from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and celebrations of the Davao Region's insurgency-free status by the Regional Peace and Order Council. In summary, the 10th ID vehemently opposes the Canadian government's travel advisory, citing the peaceful and secure nature of the regions under their jurisdiction, and highlighting the significant strides made in eradicating insurgency in the Davao Region......»»
PHO advises the public to keep hydrated
PHO advises the public to keep hydrated.....»»
Agoda’s Eco Deals Survey: 4 in 5 Travelers Care About More Sustainable Travel
As Pinoy travelers venture to explore new horizons, they are increasingly mindful of the potential impact of their choices. According to a survey conducted by digital travel platform Agoda, 92% of Filipino travelers care about more sustainable travel. Respondents highlighted that financial incentives, the availability of sustainable travel packages, and clearer guidance on sustainable travel […].....»»
The Mental Wellness Odyssey: Unveiling Travel’s Transformative Power
In our hectic world, travel transcends leisure, impacting mental health beyond its scenic and cultural appeal, as supported by scientific evidence. Escape Stress: Travel breaks routine, offering a refreshing respite from daily demands, reducing stress. Joyful Exploration: Experiences, not possessions, bring happiness. Travel’s thrill and diversity elevate joy. Mindful Journey: Travel promotes mindfulness, offering moments […].....»»
SEC advises investors: Watch for red flags before investing
SEC advises investors: Watch for red flags before investing.....»»
Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards 2023 celebrates foremost developers, projects and agencies
The Southeast Asia real estate market currently faces challenges in the face of the global economic environment and tightening access to finance, however, the winners at this eighth annual Dot Property Southeast Asia Awards were celebrated in recognition of their resilience and adaptability to both the evolving needs of home seekers and the surrounding market conditions......»»
Navigating Holy Week Travels: A Pilgrim’s Guide
As the solemnity of Holy Week draws near, many embark on journeys, seeking spiritual solace or simply a break from the daily grind. Yet, traversing the roads during this sacred time requires a mindful approach. Here, we offer a compass to navigate the seas of travel during this revered period. First and foremost, foresight is […].....»»
MagsPeak Mountain Resort & Villas to open its doors to the public this Holy Week
MagsPeak Mountain Resort & Villas to open its doors to the public this Holy Week.....»»
MagsPeak Mountain Resort & Villas to open its doors to the public this Holy Week
MagsPeak Mountain Resort & Villas to open its doors to the public this Holy Week.....»»
DOT seeks inclusion in protected areas board amid Chocolate Hills issue
Department of Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco —INQUIRER.net file photo / Ryan Leagogo After the recent controversy surrounding a resort development near Chocolate Hills in Sagbayan town, Bohol, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced plans to advocate for its inclusion in the national government’s Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco stated during a.....»»
NEWS BRIEFS | 19 February 2024
DOT-10 opens historical trail in Cagayan de Oro The Department of Tourism-Region 10 (DOT-10) has launched the “Cagayan de Oro Historical Trail Walkthrough,” which covered the historical sites in the city. The trail will start at the wooden cross in front of the St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral in downtown Cagayan de Oro. The cross, erected in […].....»»
DOT To Launch Tourism Program for OFWs
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) have teamed up for the Balik Bayani sa Turismo program, recognizing the key role OFWs play in boosting the Philippine economy. Aligned with the National Government’s OFWs Reintegration Program, it focuses on providing livelihood and financial literacy opportunities through tourism training for OFWs and their […].....»»
Holy Week 2024: Testimonies of conversion, healing echo at Tabor Hill
CEBU CITY, Philippines – In the serene hills of Talamban in Cebu City, devout Catholics gathered at OAD Tabor Hill to partake in the timeless traditions of Holy Week 2024. These practices have become integral in their lives as they hold deeply engraved meaning for their faith and personal devotion. READ: Holy Week 2024: Tabor.....»»
CCLEX offers motorists assistance, free towing services on Holy Week
To ensure safe and convenient travel experiences, the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC) is offering motorist assistance and free towing services to users of its expressway this Holy Week. CCLEC, along with the other toll road networks of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), is implementing anew its Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko (SMSK) motorist.....»»
Holy Week drugs: CV police seize P39.3M in illegal drugs
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Holy Week drugs worth P39,370,368 were seized by Central Visayas police who also apprehended 1,296 suspects during this period. According to data from the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7), this accomplishment was the result of unrelenting police operations conducted from March 24-31, 2024. PRO-7 earlier relayed that this year’s.....»»
Meralco reminds public of electrical safety tips this Holy Week
Electric concessionaire Meralco said that its personnel will attend to the needs of its customers during Holy Week despite its offices being closed from Maundy Thursday to Black Saturday......»»
iWantTFC brings inspirational programming this Holy Week
iWantTFC brings inspirational programming this Holy Week.....»»
Repent and reflect this Holy week
Repent and reflect this Holy week.....»»
Jesus: “Live this Holy Week as you have never lived it before”
Jesus: “Live this Holy Week as you have never lived it before”.....»»