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Travel Updates


Okada Manila Earns Dual Top 3 Honors at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026
Named among Asia Pacific’s Top 3 Best Integrated Resorts and the Philippines’ Top 2 Best City Hotels, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for luxury hospitality, dining, wellness, entertainment, and gaming. MANILA, Philippines — Okada Manila has earned dual Top 3 distinctions at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, ranking among Asia Pacific's Top 3 Best Integrated Resorts and the Philippines' Top 2 Best City Hotels. The achievement reinforces O
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 252 min read


Big Spaces, Bigger Flavors: Citadines Bacolod City Elevates Events And Dining In The City Of Smiles
Left_ Buglas Ballroom at Citadines Bacolod City Right_ Fuego Lounge and Bar at Citadines Bacolod City BACOLOD CITY, PHILIPPINES — Citadines Bacolod City, a premier hotel managed by the international hospitality chain The Ascott Limited, is firmly establishing itself as the region’s destination for both momentous events and sumptuous dining experiences. Strategically located along the vibrant Lacson Street corridor, the property seamlessly pairs Bacolod’s modern MICE (Meetings
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 192 min read


Batanes Launches Smart Tourism Portal to Enhance Visitor Experience
The Provincial Government of Batanes has officially introduced Executive Order No. 23, Series of 2026, marking a significant transition toward digital visitor management. This new policy adopts the Batanes Smart Tourism Registration Portal and Visitor Identification System, a centralized platform designed to streamline the entry process for both local and foreign travelers. By integrating pre-registration and identity verification into a single digital interface, the province
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 192 min read


Soccsksargen Emerges as the Philippines' Premier Wellness Destination
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 12 has officially positioned Soccsksargen as a burgeoning hub for holistic wellbeing with the launch of the first SOX Wellness Tourism Summit. Held at the Buda Vista Garden Resort in Arakan, the summit marks a significant milestone in the region's two-year initiative to integrate cultural experiences, natural landscapes, and specialized wellness offerings. This strategic move aims to provide an immersive travel experience for visitors wh
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 192 min read


New Manila International Airport: A Game-Changer for Philippine Aviation and Tourism
The Philippines is poised for a significant transformation in its aviation and tourism sectors with the ongoing development of the New Manila International Airport (NMIA). This ambitious infrastructure project, spanning 2,500 hectares in Bulakan, Bulacan, is designed to alleviate congestion at the existing Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and serve as a crucial catalyst for economic growth and enhanced global connectivity. With its strategic vision and comprehensive
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 182 min read


Philippine Based Airlines Announce Seat Sales and Lower Fuel Surcharges for June Travel
Filipino travelers can look forward to more affordable and flexible travel options this June, as three major airlines have announced significant seat sales. This development, coupled with a reduction in fuel surcharges, signals a positive trend for the Philippine travel industry, making both domestic and international destinations more accessible. These initiatives are poised to stimulate travel demand and provide much-needed relief to budget-conscious travelers. Cebu Pacific
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 182 min read


Proposed P480 Border Security Fee: What Filipino Travelers Need to Know
A new proposal in the Philippines could soon introduce a P480 round-trip border security fee for all travelers entering or leaving the country. This charge, part of a Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services (CAISS) project, aims to modernize the Bureau of Immigration's processing of international travelers through an integrated digital system. While the government asserts the project will come at no direct cost to taxpayers, the fee would effectively be shouldered by
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 182 min read


DOT Launches New Transit and Regional Tours to Boost Philippine Tourism
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has unveiled two significant initiatives for June and July 2026, designed to enrich the travel experience for both international and domestic visitors. These programs, the Transit Tours for international layover passengers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) Regional Tours, aim to deepen visitor engagement, highlight the nation's rich culture and heritage, and bolster community-bas
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 182 min read


Come Find Your Iloilo at Belmont Hotel Iloilo
There are places you visit, and there are places you discover. Iloilo has always been the latter. A city where heritage churches stand alongside modern skylines, where age-old recipes are lovingly preserved and reinvented, and where a gentle rhythm of life encourages travelers to linger a little longer. As the newest destination within Iloilo City, Belmont Hotel Iloilo invites guests to experience the city not merely as a stopover, but as a story waiting to unfold. From left:
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 113 min read


The Philippines: Your Ultimate Family Travel Destination for 2026
The Philippines is rapidly gaining recognition as the premier choice for family travel in 2026, offering an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and profound cultural immersion. This Southeast Asian gem is establishing itself as a top-tier destination where every generation, from toddlers to grandparents, can forge unforgettable memories through shared experiences. With its stunning natural beauty, secure environments, and a wealth of engaging activities, the archipel
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 92 min read


Philippines and Vietnam Forge Stronger Tourism Ties: A New Era of Regional Travel
The Philippines and Vietnam have officially embarked on a new chapter of tourism collaboration, signing a comprehensive Tourism Cooperation Program for 2026–2029. This landmark agreement, formalized during Vietnamese President Tô Lâm's state visit to Manila, signals a strategic move to bolster regional travel and cultural exchange, promising exciting prospects for both nations' tourism sectors. This initiative is particularly significant for the Philippines, as it aims to cap
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 92 min read


DOT Backs DICT Internet Connectivity for Cagayan Valley Tourism, Boosting Digital Transformation
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Cagayan Valley has officially thrown its support behind the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) initiative to expand internet connectivity across the region’s tourism destinations. This strategic collaboration, highlighted by the soft launch of the Provision of Internet Access through Low Earth Orbit Satellites (PIALEOS) program, marks a significant step towards accelerating digital transformation and enhancing visi
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 92 min read


Rookie PH Opens New Stores in Greenhills and One Ayala Ahead of Back-To-School Season
As the back-to-school season approaches, Rookie PH continues its retail expansion with the opening of new stores in Metro Manila, bringing its curated selection of kids’ apparel, footwear, bags, and accessories closer to more Filipino families. Rookie PH officially opens its newest branch at Greenhills Mall, located on the third floor of Greenhills Mall at Greenhills Shopping Center along Ortigas Avenue in San Juan City. The store offers a fresh shopping destination for pare
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 52 min read


Philippine Airlines Boosts Long-Haul Capacity with Second Airbus A350-1000: Enhancing Connectivity to North America
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has significantly strengthened its long-haul capabilities with the arrival of its second Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking a pivotal moment in the airline’s fleet modernization strategy. This advanced widebody jet, which landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila on May 29, is set to enhance PAL’s capacity on crucial transpacific routes connecting the Philippines with the United States and Canada [1]. The expansion comes as international
Joanna Garingarao
Jun 22 min read


Philippine passport holders can now visit Angola visa-free for up to 30 days
MANILA, Philippines — Filipino travelers may now enter Angola without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, according to the Department of Tourism. The tourism department recently announced that Angola’s tourist visa exemption policy now covers Philippine passport holders, a move later confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs. “For context, the Embassy of Angola in Manila informed the DFA on 6 March of the visa-free entry arrangement for Filipino tourists for short-term st
Joanna Garingarao
May 211 min read


Enhanced Global Connectivity: Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines Expand Strategic Partnership
In a significant move set to redefine air travel for passengers in the Philippines and beyond, Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have announced a major expansion of their strategic codeshare network. This enhanced collaboration, effective June 1, 2026, promises seamless connectivity and enriched travel experiences, underscoring the growing importance of the Philippine market in global aviation. The partnership is poised to offer travelers unparalleled access to a wi
Joanna Garingarao
May 212 min read


Shaping the Next Generation of Filipino Hospitality Leaders
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and Lyceum of the Philippines University–Batangas Forge Strategic Partnership for Hospitality Education and Sustainable Tourism Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and Lyceum of the Philippines – Batangas forge strategic partnership aiming to elevate hospitality education. In a landmark move that strengthens the future of Philippine hospitality and tourism education, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas officially si
Joanna Garingarao
May 143 min read


Philippine Aviation Soars: Fastest Growth in Southeast Asia
The Philippines has emerged as Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing aviation market for April 2026, according to a recent report by aviation analytics firm OAG, signaling renewed momentum for the country’s travel sector despite mounting operational pressures across the region. Data from the report showed the Philippines added 687,000 airline seats year-on-year, translating to a 13.4 percent increase in flight capacity — the highest growth rate among Southeast Asian markets. The e
Joanna Garingarao
May 112 min read


Entalula Beach in Palawan named World’s No. 1 Beach for 2026
EL NIDO, Palawan — The Philippines has claimed the top spot in the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2026 list, with Entalula Beach in El Nido crowned as the No. 1 beach in the world. Often described as Palawan’s “overlooked slice of heaven,” Entalula Beach is known for its powdery white sand, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters—features that helped elevate it from No. 2 in 2025 to the top spot this year. In its citation, World’s 50 Best Beaches praised the destination
Joanna Garingarao
May 62 min read


Cebu Gears Up for ASEAN Hosting with Special Non-Working Holidays
The vibrant heart of the Visayas, Cebu, is set to take center stage as Lapu-Lapu City and the Municipality of Cordova prepare to host a significant ASEAN event. In anticipation of this international gathering, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially declared May 6 to 8, 2026, as special non-working holidays for these key areas. This declaration not only facilitates the smooth execution of the ASEAN hosting duties but also presents a unique opportunity for both residents
Joanna Garingarao
May 62 min read


Travel Madness Expo 2026 Partners with Metrobank for a "Funtastic" Travel Extravaganza*
MANILA, Philippines — Pack your bags! The Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2026 is officially joining forces with Metrobank to present the most anticipated tourism event of the year. This powerhouse partnership is set to deliver "funtastic" rates, exclusive travel perks, and a seamless booking experience unavailable anywhere else. Photo shows guests during 2025 TME Metrobank’s Swipe, Save, Soar Whether you are dreaming of autumn in Japan, a scenic escape to the mountains of Georgia,
Joanna Garingarao
May 62 min read


Camiguin: The Philippines' Untouched Gem Captures Global Attention
Camiguin Island, often celebrated for its serene beauty and absence of traffic lights, has recently earned a coveted spot on The New York Times' prestigious "52 Places to Go in 2026" list. This recognition positions the island as the sole Philippine destination highlighted, drawing international focus to its unique blend of natural wonders and authentic cultural experiences. The island's growing appeal is further bolstered by significant infrastructure developments. A major w
Joanna Garingarao
May 52 min read


Manila and Chongqing: A New Chapter in Regional Connectivity
The landscape of Philippine aviation reached a significant milestone this week with the arrival of Air China’s inaugural flight from Chongqing to Manila. This development marks a pivotal expansion in our regional network, signaling a robust recovery and a strategic deepening of ties with one of China’s most dynamic economic hubs. For the Filipino traveler and the local tourism industry, this direct link represents more than just a new route; it is a testament to the growing c
Joanna Garingarao
May 42 min read


Philippines as the next Taiwan? : Philippines, US to Establish Industrial Hub for Supply Chain Security
The Philippines and the United States are joining forces to build a 4,000-acre industrial hub in New Clark City , north of Manila, as part of a Washington-led push to secure global AI and semiconductor supply chains. The project follows Manila’s entry into Pax Silica , a U.S.-driven initiative now backed by 13 countries—including Australia, Finland, India, Qatar, South Korea, and Singapore—designed to safeguard critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, and data infrastructur
Joanna Garingarao
Apr 201 min read


First Russian Oil Shipment in 5 Years Arrives in The Philippines as Energy Crisis Deepens
Photo courtesy: Department of Energy MANILA — A tanker carrying 100,000 tonnes of ESPO blend crude from Russia’s Kozmino port has docked at Petron’s refinery in Limay, Bataan, marking the Philippines’ first Russian oil import since 2019. The Sierra Leone-flagged Sara Sky arrived on March 23 at 2 p.m., according to shipping tracker Marine Traffic. The move comes amid heightened concerns over supply disruptions as Iran’s conflict with the United States threatens passage throug
Joanna Garingarao
Mar 261 min read


Fiesta de Mayo for Mom at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel is dedicating this festive month of May to all mothers with its Fil-Mex-inspired takeaway fare featuring...
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May 6, 20212 min read


Practical Tips for S.A.F.E. T.R.A.V.E.L.S.
Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel are certified quarantine hotels that offer full board packages for worry-free...
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Apr 14, 20214 min read


Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Brings Summer Fun to the City
The heat is on in the City of Love and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is kicking off the summer season with a bevy of irresistible promos to...
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Mar 25, 20212 min read


Richmonde Hotel Ortigas Celebrates 22 Years with You
Since current quarantine restrictions in the metro still prevent us from gathering to commemorate special occasions, Richmonde Hotel...
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Mar 12, 20211 min read


Primed for Love at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s Eastwood Café+Bar offers a meaty Valentine’s Day to prime you for love and romance. (Left) Enjoy al fresco...
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Feb 7, 20212 min read


Let Love Surprise You A Valentine’s Date at Home
It’s the love month and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Indeed, let love surprise you as you enjoy a romantic date right at...
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Feb 3, 20212 min read


CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF THE OX AT DIAMOND HOTEL MANILA
Welcome the Year of the Metal Ox at Diamond Hotel Philippinesto invite prosperity and luck in a festive Chinese New Year celebration. The...
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Jan 30, 20212 min read


Spend the Days of Dinagyang at Richmonde
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s Festive Buri Boxes The celebration of the Dinagyang Festival continues in the new normal! Richmonde Hotel Iloilo...
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Jan 22, 20212 min read


Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Supports Local Entrepreneurs
The spirit of community is alive and well in the City of Love and this has never been more eminent than during this pandemic. At a time...
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Jan 17, 20212 min read


Holiday Inn Baguio City Centre makes important moments come to life
Momentous occasions just have to happen in the best venue and Holiday Inn Baguio City Centre makes every step a celebration. The first...
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Jan 16, 20211 min read


Savor the Holidays with Feasts from Richmonde Hotel Iloilo
Celebrate Christmas & New Year’s as you stay safe at The Granary’s Holiday Luxe Buffets. Nothing can stop Filipinos from enjoying the...
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Dec 23, 20203 min read


Culinary Yuletide Wishes Come True at Diamond Hotel
The festive season will be merrier with culinary masterpieces that will make your celebrations and gift-giving truly momentous. From...
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Dec 22, 20202 min read


TASTES OF THE HOLIDAYS AT DIAMOND HOTEL
Diamond Hotel Philippines is ready to delight you with the perfect holiday table. Let the talented chefs do their magic in the kitchen...
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Dec 21, 20201 min read


EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL CONCLUDES FIRST KITCHEN MASTERS: HOME EDITION COMPETITION
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel kicks off its anniversary month last November with the first ever cooking competition, Kitchen Masters: Home...
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Dec 7, 20202 min read


A DECADE OF EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL
Eastwood Richmonde Hotel (ERH) recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a public a virtual event streamed via its official Facebook...
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Dec 5, 20201 min read


Ascott is recognised as leading serviced apartment brand in Asia and Europe at World Travel Awards
Philippines, 9 November 2020 – CapitaLand’s wholly-owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), has been recognised as the...
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Nov 27, 20203 min read


Diamond Hotel Philippines Presents A Spooky Kooky Virtual Halloween Event
Have a howling great time this Halloween at Diamond Hotel Philippines’ Spooky Kooky Virtual Halloween Event on October 25, 2020! It’s a...
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Oct 20, 20202 min read


Culinary Feasts for a Cause Offered by Diamond Hotel Philippines
The winds of change have affected us all – including the hardworking employees at Diamond Hotel Philippines. To delight their valued...
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Oct 1, 20202 min read


IT’S ALLSAFE IN NOVOTEL MANILA ARANETA CITY
Welcoming, safeguarding and taking care of others is at the heart of hospitality and Novotel Manila Araneta City has, in accordance with...
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Oct 1, 20202 min read


Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Wins Awards fromthe Biggest International Travel Sites
Touted as the trailblazer in the first class hotel category in Iloilo City, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, a member of the Megaworld Hotels...
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Aug 17, 20202 min read


Cook your way to greatness with Enchanted Kingdom’s Kiddie Chef Challenge 2020
It’s time to give your little ones a break from their usual home activities and let them discover the joys of cooking! Unleash the little...
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Aug 11, 20201 min read


Baked Sushi, Ube Pandesal and Frozen Dimsum Offeredat Diamond Hotel’s Online Shopping Site
Inspired by the latest food trends, Diamond Hotel Philippines presents two delicious newcomers, ready to steal your heart and your...
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Aug 11, 20202 min read


Eastwood Richmonde Brings Choice Meals & Feastsfrom Their Kitchen to Your Table
Staying home and staying safe doesn’t mean depriving yourself of the delectable dishes you’ve come to love and enjoy at Eastwood...
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Jul 30, 20203 min read


Drink, Dine & Unwind at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo as It Turns Five
On its birthday month this July, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates “new normal-style” with exciting offers on room accommodations, dining...
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Jul 17, 20203 min read


Rediscover the Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can and Corniche A la Carte Selections at Diamond Hotel
Award-winning authentic Japanese restaurant Yurakuen at Diamond Hotel Philippines has re-opened its Teppanyaki private rooms, bringing...
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Jul 12, 20202 min read
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