Tony Chavez

People-centered services greet travelers at NAIA Terminal 3, says PBBM

Travelers passing through Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 can now expect a more welcoming, people-first experience, following the launch of the Department of Tourism’s first-ever Transit Tours and Medical Tourism Concierge—flagship initiatives under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aimed at transforming the country’s main gateway into a service-driven tourism hub. President…

Read More

Cebuano cuisine gets global lift as MICHELIN recognition drives diners and dollars

CEBU CITY — More than a month after the MICHELIN Guide officially arrived in the Philippines, Cebu’s culinary scene is already feeling the impact, with chefs and food entrepreneurs reporting fuller tables, rising revenues, and a renewed global interest in the island’s rich regional cuisine. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco heard these stories firsthand as…

Read More

DOT celebrates Philippines’ recognition as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has welcomed the Philippines’ recognition as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination at the 11th TripZilla Excellence Awards, calling it a strong affirmation of the country’s growing stature as one of the world’s most attractive places to retire. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the accolade reinforces the Philippines’ position not just…

Read More

DOT, Cebu Pacific, hotels roll out flight and stay deals to revive Cebu tourism

LAPU-LAPU CITY — The Department of Tourism is stepping up efforts to revive travel to Cebu by rolling out flight incentives and hotel promotions through a new partnership with Cebu Pacific and the Hotel, Resort, and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc., aimed at drawing more visitors back to the island province after recent natural calamities….

Read More

PDEA warns public against peyote cactus

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is urging the public to remain vigilant following reports on the growing presence of Peyote (Lophophora williamsii), a spineless cactus that contains mescaline—a highly potent hallucinogenic substance classified as a dangerous drug. PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez issued the advisory after learning that Peyote cacti are being…

Read More

Swift aid for tourism workers as DOT, DSWD mobilize post-quake support

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) rolled out emergency cash assistance this week to tourism workers affected by recent earthquakes in Davao Oriental and Bogo City, Cebu—reinforcing the national government’s commitment to help communities recover quickly and sustainably. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Social Welfare Secretary…

Read More

DOT chief says VietJet’s new Ho Chi Minh–Manila flights strengthen PHL tourism links

The Philippines marked another milestone in regional tourism connectivity as the Department of Tourism (DOT) officially welcomed VietJet Air’s inaugural direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Manila on Sunday morning, November 23. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco described the new route as a strategic boost to the country’s international gateways, noting that deeper…

Read More

DOT, DMW launch investment window to help returning OFWs build tourism businesses

Returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) will soon have more opportunities to invest, earn, and build their own businesses in the country’s thriving tourism sector, following a new partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The two agencies formally sealed their collaboration for the Investment in Philippine Opportunities for…

Read More

MIMAROPA shines as premier tourism gem at the 16th Regional Travel Fair in Puerto Princesa

Sellers, together with DOT Undersecretary Jumapao, during the B2C Opening of the16th Regional Travel Fair. The 16th Regional Travel Fair (RTF) lit up Puerto Princesa City, Palawan from November 14 to 16, 2025, as the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines brought together thousands of tourism stakeholders for one of the country’s most vibrant travel events. The…

Read More

Perth–Manila direct flights seen to lift PH tourism, open new doors for Aussie travelers

Travel between the Philippines and Australia just became faster, easier, and more exciting with the launch of Jetstar Airways’ new direct flights linking Perth and Manila. The inaugural service touched down at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Friday, November 28, greeted by lively Filipino performances that gave 169 arriving passengers a…

Read More