The Intramuros Administration, Department of Tourism, The Philippine Travel Agencies Association together with The Runway Atelier just held THE GRAND SANTACRUZAN at the Intramuros grounds today starting from Foro de Intramuros (in front of San Agustin Church) going to Puerto Real Gardens in Manila.
The event was participated by Runway Atelier's models and artists, donning specially designed gowns to commemorate history and the Catholic faith. This is a yearly tradition for Filipinos to showcase its religious significance when Santa Elena tried to look for the holy cross. There will be models and escorts coming from The Runway Atelier participating in the procession, and it was so nice seeing them dressed in their gorgeous garbs and outfits, depicting iconic characters from scriptures. Last year (2024) THE GRAND SANTACRUZAN Reyna Elena was Karylle Tatlonghari and Rosa Mystica was her equally gorgeous Mom Zsazsa Padilla.
Folks were at the venue as early as 3pm, and the crowd was a mix of foreign tourists, locals, people from the church, and relatives of those who were participating in the Santacruzan, They also walked around the Intramuros grounds and converged at the Puerta Real Gardens at the eastern part of the walled city. Faces did light up when they saw other participants, and it was so nice to see them wear their very detailed gowns, and suits for the consortes that evening.
They gave special awards to Nazalea Vicera, Trixie Mariscotes. The Best Dressed Awards went to Marian Angeles, Anne Marie Tolentino, Criselle Ava Geronimo and Alynna Orfanel. Mr Photogenic Awards went to Ardie Matsada and Migs Casimiro. Ms Photogenic went to Zoe Shi and Lizzie Aguinaldo. The Crowd Favorite Award went to Rhianna Altos and Theodore Salgado. Mikael Collin also won Best Escort. Then they announced the Best in Arc Awards. 3rd Place went to Mikay Barruiz, 2nd Place was won by Alyanna Orphanel, and 1st Place went to Rhianna Alto and Theodore Salgado.
Congratulations to all the winners and participants of this grand event. I heard there will be more things happening this month, make sure you follow The Runway Atelier social channels as they post events there regularly.
Travel Tour Expo 2024 is happening this year with the theme "The World Within Reach".
Ms. Patria Chiong the TTE Chairperson says "With the help of our sponsors DOT, Unionbank and media partners, the Travel and Tour Expo is happening this year. People are raring to travel, with places that work with their budget, ease of travel and the DOT's "Love Philippines " campaign, PTAA is here to make sure people can make memories in the country. We are confident to exceed the goals of the DOT, people are raring to go out and restrictions are lifted. We are giving travelers choices, it just boils down to budget and in the TTE we've got that. From 3 to 5 star hotels, tour packages, special trips, we can offer to different needs of passengers and customers. We are looking forward to the future, way beyond this event and there's really no way to go but up! I would say it would be up by 20-25 percent (a ballpark figure). The ASEAN, Israel, Taiwan is going to be popular as they are Visa Free."
There will be 4 halls occupied and it has been sold out to travel boards, agents, and businesses. One side will be delegated to business to business markets and exhibitors, and all these will be open to the public on February 2 and 3.
Sellers will include international offers for Australia, Balkan, China, Dubai, Egypt, France, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Morocco, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Turkey, UAE, the US and Vietnam.
As of now they have over 68 sellers and 220 registered buyers in the event. Gates will open 10am on the first day, and 9:30 am on the second day. The TTE secretariat wants to emphasize that we all need to help the DOT succeed as this will be a public and private sector cooperation. The Bayanihan spirit still exists. So see you at SMX 2F Function rooms because this will be big! Unionbank card holders will also get perks especially on the opening day plus some eGC's up for grabs.
There will also be raffle draws, prizes, surprises, entertainment numbers, and an auction for trips so make sure you bring your budget on the day!
Something good is happening over at the Mall of Asia Music Hall this coming January 6 and 7, mall hours called "Panahon sa Taiwan: Ang Iyong Love Story" Travel Fair. With Sparkle artists Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, they'll take you to their recent journey to Taiwan which they were able to do last November.
This is also a travel fair with their partner agencies with the help of Taiwan Tourism Administration, Taiwan Tourism Administration TH through the auspices of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. Ini it are great travel deals and packages from their partner airline companies and travel agencies, so if you're planning a great 2024 Taiwan adventure, this is the place you should definitely go to!
Real life sweethearts Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos will also be announced as their newest travel ambassadors who were picked because of their popularity and influence in the country. This certainly will highlight what deep connections we have with Taiwan, to hopefully bring that experience to even more people. There will also be games, more giveaways and activities prepared for guests or those who plan to visit the 2 day fair at Mall of Asia. If you have questions, visit their official site eng.taiwan.net.tw for more information. Go see Gabbi and Khalil tomorrow!
I've been in this side of the South a couple of times, but wasn't able to see the actual Aguinaldo Shrine in all its glory. Yes, I've been in Kawit, Cavite last week. Honestly, it was so much fun to have been able to veer away from Metro Manila, and see the actual thing we read in history books. For those who don't know, Kawit, Cavite is home to Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the new Republic under the Malolos Congress. To say the least, this part of the world is quite historic. His involvement in the Spanish and American War was quite huge, and has won several times, recorded over years.
Today, the municipality is led by Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo. He is the great grand son of the former President. His namesake was certainly a thing that could pressure him, he was quite aware of it. Though with what leadership and service he provides his people, his personality is quite different. He was so humble and very shy with interviews. What's quite unquestionable is how he's loved by Kawiteños, I've seen their faces light up when talking about him and how they are all eager to share personal stories, experiences on how they were helped by him in one way or another, in their most trying times.
Since it's also Christmas, they hold events at the Aguinaldo Freedom Park where the bronze statue of the former President is located. It's on horseback, and quite massive to be seen by all. This lies in front of the famous Aguinaldo Shrine, where the country's first flag was raised. It was astounding to see the balcony or window immortalized in books and legal tender. While admiring that, we were toured inside the home, the original structure, same wood over a hundred years could tell tons of stories.
The Kawit LGU has made this place light up in recent years. If you saw what I saw during the evening event, more than the lights they installed and fireworks, I was super surprised at the mere number of people who flocked the park. That place is huge, but Moms, friends, their whole families were in tow... with pure smiles on their faces. It was infectious, they fancied light installations set at different colors and speed. They also had lots of light tunnels where the kids run around and took lots of selfies. Various forms of Santa Claus, Butterflies, things that both the LGU and the Mayor wanted so people could celebrate in this place for FREE during the yuletide season. Same reason why even the nearby towns go to the Aguinaldo Freedom Park as well. Just take a look at the actual Aguinaldo Shrine at night, as they also lit up the place with a 3D projector. They were also mighty proud about their churches, I was honestly envious seeing all that!
Here's our interview with the Kawit, Cavite LGU. Meet Mayor Angelo Aguinaldo's Mother Konsehala Armie Aguinaldo, Konsehal Alvin Bunag, Municipal Administrator Engr. Rey Santos, and Kawit PIO Lead Mathew Juganas.
The Aguinaldo Freedom Park and Aguinaldo Shrine just looks so different at night!
They even have the finger heart, symbolizing their triple A goal of #AlagangAngeloAguinaldo, where one exudes Puso (heart) and Malasakit (concern for others).
Well loved Diocesan Shrine of St. Mary Magdalene, concert during the Kawit Christmas lighting ceremony with Kapuso Singer Nef Medina, various artists and Konsehala Armie Aguinaldo.
The very shy Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo, obliged us with an interview. He was very proud of his hometown, and wanted to make known how much of a destination this would be during the Christmas season.
I've seen the reason why they love the Mayor, he goes over and beyond what's expected of him. He knows his mandate, and makes sure every sense of the word "service" gets to the people of Kawit, Cavite. It's no surprise why "sana all" comments abound his FB page, because a LOT of people should be inspired by his story. I would have never thought about visiting Kawit in the past, but THIS has indeed change my mind. It's not just history, but its people that make this place GREAT!
If you want to see the display, it turns ON at around 6PM. They are extending hours til 12AM since it is already December. Thank you for the opportunity to see your beautiful place, and experience how kind people are in Kawit, Cavite. For your convenience, I have embedded a map so you can go there during holidays. Please enjoy!
I know some of you haven't really had the time to go out and travel, but this is revenge travel year and the Philippine Tour Operators Association is about to.hold the 34th edition of Philippine Travel Mart at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. The annual affair houses over 300 exhibitors from around the country (that's 17 regions) which consists of hotels, resorts, agencies, tour operators and offices on September 1-3, 2023. If you're raring to find deals and tour packages to travel in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, this is the place to be in and book it on the spot!
As you know, there's a very strong demand for tours in Baguio, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan and places like Zamboanga, Quirino, Soccskargen so you've got a lot of places to discover.
The President of PhilTOA Ms. Fe Abling-Yu says "Thank you and good afternoon, in spite of the rain and road conditions you are all here. Your presence here today underscores the importance of support we need in the tourism and hospitality efforts in these challenging times. Now with great excitement, I am delighted to share with you the 34th Philippine Travel Mart. It's time to connect, our direction is to help the government to uplift the tourism industry. Our thanks to the DOT, all the 16 regional offices across the nation. With the help of TPB, you will see them there. This industry gave us life, an industry to earn, and we are happy to say even local government units are happy to accept us as guests in their respective regions. We hope you find ways to help us take the message across to satisfy the Filipinos wunderlist especially this year."
Ms. Fe adds "The first row of pavilions will be done by DOT regional offices, and the 34th Philippine Travel Mart is a place you could see affordable tickets, and cooperation from the DOT, TPB. Emerging destinations last year included the colors of Mindanao, apart from that, there's Borongan Samar where PAL will be flying too soon. Also in our mind is Marinduque, Romblon, Masbate, tons of properties that needed to be discovered."
The very passionate Ms. Maria Margarita Nograles the COO of TPB also says "Guests, media friends, good afternoon. As we continue to navigate the challenges in tourism, and as borders open, it is crucial to support our local businesses to engage with partners and suppliers. The Philippines has delightful experiences, scenic spots and rich cuisine for everyone. 3 Million tourism arrivals, local tourism surge is happening right now (almost 7 times) versus the same period last year. It creates employment for thousands of Filipinos. Our country is rich, and the Philippine Travel Mart is helping our tourism sector bounce back stronger. The TPB is fully committed to develop our tourism portfolio for both local and international tourists and is setting bigger goals for years to come. Thank you so much for your help PHILTOA, here's to the continued success for the upcoming 34th Philippine Trave Mart!"
Ms. Mary Ann Ong the 1st VP of PHILTOA says "We have 17 regions participate in the program by presenting their local talents, do games, plus presentations of our partners lime Philippine Airlines, and some new players in the market like Chroma Hospitality, Hotel 101 group, Dusit Davao, and DOT's new call called "The Filipino Brand of Wellness" which will also be featured there."
She also talked about the new logo of Philippine Travel Mart which showcase the colors of the ASEAN. There are a lot of things lined up in the program and it will be announced a week or two before the date so stay tuned for that!
PHILTOA 2nd Vice President Arjun Shroff says "The annual Travel Mart has invigorated the industry. Hotels, airlines, tour agencies has taken advantage of servicing more Filipinos through this and this year is going to be bigger than ever before. From vibrant cities, activities, all designed to make people have unforgettable adventures, to offer something for everyone. 7600 ways to LOVE THE PHILIPPINES, to be wowed, have fun, and the best destinations will be offered on the event. Make sure you're there on September!"
The 34th Philippine Travel Mart media launch was also attended by PhilTOA stakeholders, board members, hoteliers, people from TPB, the Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, media outlets, bloggers and influencers. If you want to know more about the event, visit their official website philtravelmart.com and their social channels @philtravelmart on FB and IG.
Spent quite a few hours at Glorietta 2 Activity Center as the Taiwan Tourism Bureau gave Filipinos a taste of how it feels like in Taiwan these days. The folks treated us to a few song numbers courtesy of artist Unique Salonga in the afternoon while the folks got acquainted with the multitude of airline and tour operators offering the best flight deals, hotel and destination packages right on the spot.
This definitely spurred from the recent developments of giving visa free privileges to Filipinos, making it so easy to go to and from the country formerly known as Formosa. I was certainly even more excited about the street food that they have, the Lantern Festival, the sweet tangy pineapple cakes and one of the most tallest buildings in the world Taipei 101.
They also got us to see Kapuso star and international endorser Gabbi Garcia, the official celebrity endorser who was just in Taiwan to experience Cherry Blossoms, Shopping and just about every food item she loves.
Gabbi was just ecstatic telling us about how patient and helpful people were during her trip, that even if you're a first time traveler, it wouldn't be difficult to actually take public transportation (she took the MRT), or eat on the streets, have some wonderful tea amidst the majestic views of the Taiwanese countryside. This is also the second time that they are holding "Panahon sa Taiwan" which was graced by Ambassador Peiyung Hsu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines and Abe Chou Shih Pi who is the Taiwan Tourism Bureau KL Office Director.
Ticket promotions were available for Taiwan's China Airlines, STARLUX Airlines, our very own Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia. Some of the travel operators like Touristique Travel and Tours and Jeron Travel and Tours Corp. offered not just hotel and tour packages, but a meet and greet with Gabbi Garcia in Taiwan on some dates in March.
The event was hosted by Chuckie Dreyfus
Unique Salonga was quite a talented chap!
Here's what happened during the event on video, please enjoy!
Gabbi also participated in a DIY Milktea activity where she made her own drink in the venue courtesy of the folks from Tea Melody. They also announced that they will be getting her to appear in a meet and greet in National Taiwan Science Education Center on March 19 at 12PM for the Filipino and Taiwanese community. You may visit eng.taiwan.net.tw for more details about it. Else, you can also check facebook.com/tbrockl for updates since they post regularly there.
