ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines’ Department of Tourism unveiled a new tourism campaign slogan – ‘Love the Philippines.’ It replaces the iconic ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines,’ which has been used for more than a decade. “It is not a mere branding campaign, but rather a call to action to every Filipino to remember the beauty of our country,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco. “Love the Philippines is a recognition of our natural assets, storied history and rich culture.” The country has ‘so much more to offer in addition to fun.’ “Brand enhancement is imperative to stay competitive and relevant.” The previous campaign’s custom-made type font will be retained. It is the font used on jeepneys. “We will continue to market the Philippines as fun but we will also articulate that the Philippines has so much more,” Frasco added.

Philippines VAT refunds will be offered to foreign tourists next year. President Ferdinand Marcos approved a refund scheme for foreign tourists. The Philippines’ VAT on goods consumed within the country is currently 12%. Philippines VAT refunds are one of a raft of measures proposed by industry to help speed up the tourism recovery. Others include improving airport infrastructure and boosting tourism investment. The president also approved the launch of an online visa this year for Chinese, Indian, South Korean and Japanese tourists The government is targeting nearly five million foreign tourists this year.

The Philippines is set to ease mask-wearing protocols, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr planning to scrap the indoor mask mandate. The mandate on mask wearing outdoors was dropped in September. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the move will put it on a level footing with neighbouring Southeast Asian nations. Unvaccinated travellers entering the Philippines now only need to present a negative antigen test either before departure or on arrival. As of November1, the One Health Pass for arriving travellers will be replaced with the Electronic Arrival Card.

The Philippines hopes to extend its open border policy to all travellers next month. Currently, it offers visa-free access to travellers from 157 countries. The Department of Tourism said the government is targeting April to extend it to all foreign travellers. Since reopening nearly a month ago, the Philippines has welcomed73,000 tourist arrivals. “It’s not big compared to the pre-pandemic levels but, we were pleasantly surprised,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.  

 

WHY CHOOSE THE PHILIPPINES?

  The Philippines’ gorgeous white-sand beaches, stunning scenery, naturally carved limestone formations, unforgettable adventures, friendly and outgoing locals, colorful festivals, world-class diving and surfing sites, fascinating history, and a glorious mix of cultures are just some of the many reasons to visit the Philippines. Whether travelers are coming to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture and flavorful cuisine or to get pampered during a spa vacation, there’s something for everyone!   Several of the country’s islands have been globally recognized as top destinations, promising once-in-a-lifetime adventures and experiences. Topping the world’s best islands are Palawan, Boracay, Siargao, and Cebu. As a year-round tropical destination, its 7,641 islands offer fun for every type of traveler, from aquatic sports to land-based escapades to aerial exploits, from extreme, on-the-edge thrills to relaxing retreats, engaging cultural experiences, and mindful ecotourism activities. It also attracts visitors for a myriad of other reasons: medical tourism, volunteer opportunities, and cruising. Its people are the world’s great hosts with impeccable and incomparable service ethics, the Philippines boasts of its warm, friendly, cheerful, and hardworking people.   But no matter the reason, travelers will discover that one thing is certain: it’s more fun in the Philippines, providing lifelong memories through unforgettable experiences and activities. Learn more about the Philippines by becoming a Philippine Specialist. ENROLL NOW!

With the Philippines open again to foreign travellers, island hotspot Boracay hopes to lure tourists with free booster shots. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said tourists can get free booster shots during a holiday on the island. Officials said the local adult population and all hospitality workers are 100% double jabbed as the 'Resbakuna sa Botika' booster programme was launched. It allows foreign visitors to get a booster. "We are really at the forefront of this development. We have the advantage of having fully-vaccinated workers and residents. We are more than ready to open Boracay to foreign tourists," Gov. Florencio Miraflores said. Romulo-Puyat said tourists are able to walk in and have their booster shots at licensed pharmacies across the island. There are currently no active Covid-19 cases on the island. The Philippines reopened borders to foreign travellers last week. Quarantine-free is allowed for double-vaccinated adult travellers from over 150 countries who also test negative for the virus. Children under the age of 18 are exempt.

The Philippines is preparing to reopen to fully vaccinated tourists coming from select countries. It hasn't set a reopening timeline but expects to welcome international tourists again 'soon,' the country's Department of Tourism said. A Special Technical Working Group on Travel is currently discussing the protocols. Visitors from its green list will be allowed. There are currently 44 countries and territories on the Philippines green list such as China, Japan and India.   Read full story