Probably the biggest and oldest musical instrument of its kind, the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is a unique and remarkable device that has captured the attention of music enthusiasts and history buffs around the world. Considered as a Philippine National Treasure, the bamboo organ can be found in its home inside the St. Joseph Church in Las Piñas City in Metro Manila. The organ is renowned for its beautiful sound and unique construction, which uses bamboo as its primary material.


History of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 19th century. The organ was built by Las Piñas residents led by the Spanish missionary Fr. Diego Cera, who arrived in the Philippines in 1795. Fr. Cera was a member of the Franciscan Order and was assigned to the St. Joseph Parish in Las Piñas, where he was tasked with the construction of a new church.

The sound of the bamboo and its availability as the main material for the organ's construction during those times were said to have motivated Fr. Cera, who was well-known for his musical ability and enthusiasm in the creation of musical instruments. On the other hand, the German Jesuit priest Fr. Ignacio Villanueva, who constructed a pipe organ in Manila in the 18th century, reportedly taught him how to construct pipe organs.

The bamboo used for the construction of the organ was harvested from the nearby Las Piñas and Zapote forests. The bamboo was carefully selected based on its thickness and sound quality. Fr. Cera used a special technique to treat the bamboo, which involved soaking it in saltwater and drying it in the sun for several months. This process helped to preserve the bamboo and improve its durability.


Construction of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

The construction of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ began in 1816 and was completed in 1824. The organ consists of 1,031 bamboo pipes, ranging in length from 8 inches to 16 feet, and is controlled by a keyboard with 13 ranks and 14 stops. The organ is housed in a wooden case with ornate carvings and decorations, which were crafted by local artisans.

Given the limited resources and technology available at the time, the creation of the Las Pias Bamboo Organ was a remarkable accomplishment.  The inventiveness and imagination of Fr. Cera, along with the craftsmanship of the Filipino artisans, led to the creation of a musical instrument that was not only unique but also beautiful and functional.

(Photos by Jumalynne V. Doctolero/PIA-NCR)

*Special thanks to the Offices of Las Piñas Mayor Imelda "Mel" Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar, and the Public Information Office

Short history of the Bamboo Organ

1816 - Cutting of the bamboo and selection of wood

1821 - Completion of the Bamboo Organ, except for the reed stops

1824 - Addition of the 122 horizontal reed pipes

1880 - Bamboo Organ and Church severely damaged by three earthquakes. The Bamboo Organ is disassembled and the pipes are placed in the old sacristy

1882 - A typhoon blows up the roof, the chest of the Bamboo Organ suffers additional damages

1888 - The church is rebuilt. However, the Bamboo Organ remains unplayable for the next decades

1911 - The Bamboo Organ is rediscovered by tourists

1917 - Only two stops of the Bamboo Organ are repaired

1932 - An electric motor is installed to supply the wind

1943 - Partial repairs are made; 1961 - Additional partial repairs are made

1972 - Award of the contract for the restoration of the Bamboo Organ to Johannes Klais Orgelbau KG in Bonn, Germany

1973 - (June 29) The complete Bamboo Organ is shipped to Bonn Germany

1975 - (Feb 17) The restored Bamboo Organ is played again for the first time at the Klais factory in Bonn, Germany

1975 - (March 13) The complete Bamboo Organ is flown back to the Philippines via Sabena Airlines

1975 - (May 9) Inaugural concert of the Bamboo Organ by Wolfgang Oehms, an organist of the Trier Cathedral, Germany

(Source: Las Piñas Bamboo Organ Museum)

The Sound of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

The soft, mellow tone of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ's distinctive and alluring sound is reminiscent of the sounds of nature. The adaptability of the organ allows it to play a variety of musical genres, including classical, religious, and folk music. It has been utilized in numerous concerts and events through the years.

The organ's unique sound is due to its bamboo pipes, which produce a warmer and softer tone than traditional metal pipes. The bamboo pipes also have a natural vibrato that gives the organ its distinctive sound. The sound of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is further enhanced by the acoustics of the St. Joseph Church, which was designed to amplify and enhance the organ's sound.

The Significance of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is more than just a musical instrument. It is a cultural and historical landmark of the Philippines and an important symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage. The organ has survived earthquakes, typhoons, and wars, and has become a symbol of resilience and perseverance.

The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is also a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Filipino people. It is a remarkable and unique musical instrument that embodies the ingenuity, creativity, and cultural heritage of the Filipino people.

On the other hand, the construction of the organ, using bamboo as the primary material, is a testament to the resourcefulness and adaptability of early Las Piñas residents, who have long been known for their ability to make the most out of limited resources.

How to get to the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is located inside the Saint Joseph Parish at 1742 Quirino Avenue, Las Piñas City.

From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), there are several ways to get to the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ from the, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the most common options:

Taxi or Ride-hailing Service - This is the most convenient and quickest way to get to the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ from NAIA. You can either hail a taxi, for a metered fare, or book a ride-hailing service such as Grab or Angkas. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Private Car Rental - If you prefer to have your own car and driver, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies located at the airport. This option is more expensive than taking a taxi or ride-hailing service, but it offers more flexibility and convenience.

Public Transportation - For a more budget-friendly option, you can take public transportation from NAIA to Las Piñas. From the airport, take the airport shuttle bus or jeepney to Baclaran or Pasay. From there, take a bus or jeepney to Las Piñas. Once you reach Las Piñas, you can take a tricycle or taxi to the St. Joseph Church where the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is located.

From LRT Line 1: Take the Light Rail Transit Line 1, from Roosevelt Station to Baclaran Station, and get off at the Baclaran Station. From there ride a bus (Moonwalk or SM Southmall) or jeepney going to Alabang-Zapote (Please note NOT to ride the jeepney with the "via COASTAL" signage and to choose “via QUIRINO” instead).

From Alabang: Ride the traditional or modern jeep with the signboard Las Piñas bayan or Baclaran via Kabihasnan and alight in front of the St. Joseph Cathedral.

To commute by bus from Alabang, ride the PITX bus beside Starmall Alabang and ask the conductor to drop you off before Zapote flyover. From Zapote, ride the jeepneys heading to Las Piñas bayan or Baclaran via Kabihasnan/San Dionisio.

From España or Quezon Avenue: Take a jeep going to Lawton. Alight at the Philippine Post Office. From there take a UV Express to Alabang-Zapote.

It is also important to note that traffic conditions in Metro Manila can be unpredictable, and it is best to plan your trip accordingly, especially if you have a specific time schedule. It is also recommended to travel during off-peak hours to avoid heavy traffic congestion.


Other sites to visit

Adjacent the Saint Joseph Parish is a museum dedicated to the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ. Here visitors can learn more about the history and challenges of having and maintaining the Philippine National Treasure. There is also a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and memorabilia of the one-of-a-kind musical instrument.

Just a few steps away from the museum is the Caritas’ Segunda Mana, where visitors can shop quality second-hand items and clothing at a very cheap price. Plus, you can ask for a more reasonable discount from the very friendly and accommodating store cashier. (PIA-NCR)




The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines will once again promote the country’s amazing dive destinations to the international dive market at the largest and longest-running consumer dive and trade show in Asia, the Asia Diving Expo (ADEX) 2023. To be held at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore on March 31 to April 2, this event brings together diver enthusiasts, industry professionals and marine conservationists from around the world. 


“With its beautiful beaches, stunning coral reefs, and exciting marine life, the Philippines is indeed a must-visit destination for any diver or traveler looking for an amazing, educational and unforgettable experience,” says TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 


“For avid underwater explorers, you will find safety, affordability, diversity and unique experiences that will definitely stay with you when you visit the Philippines,” Nograles added. 


The TPB’s participation in ADEX is a welcome opportunity for the various dive tourism industry stakeholders to showcase their products and services, and sustain their global network. This year has the biggest contingent ever with 21 participants from the dive industry and airlines in the private sector and these are:  ILA Adventures, Inc.; Thresher Shark Divers; Bohol Beach Club; Sea Explorer Dauin; Fun & Sun Dive & Travel; The Asri Dive and Leisure Resort; Kasai Village Dive Resort; Solitude Acadia Resort; Lalaguna Holdings, Inc.; Fisheye Divers Corp.; Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort; AIRTRAV Philippines; Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa / Salaya Beach Houses; Atlantis Dive Resorts and Liveaboards; Pier Uno Dive Resort; Scandi Divers; El Galleon Resort / Asia Divers; My Resolute / Far East Liveaboards, Inc.; Kokay’s Maldito Beach Resort and Kokay’s Diving Shop; Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. The Department of Tourism regional offices from DOT region VII, DOT region IV-A and DOT region IV-B are also included.



The Philippines is coming from back-to-back wins in international diving shows and conventions, having been recently named as the Best Diving Destination in the Diving, Resort and Travel Show in Malaysia; World’s Leading Dive and Beach Destination in the World Travel Awards (WTA) 



2022 and consistently from 2019 onwards as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination. These accomplishments make TPB’s participation in ADEX more noteworthy as it seeks to further drive more tourists and investments to the country’s dive industry, and create more collaborative developmental and promotional opportunities with dive communities and stakeholders. 


The three-day trade event features a range of activities, including diving and underwater photography exhibitions, live judging of photography competitions in the ADEX Voice of the Ocean, and presentations and discussions on marine conservation. There are also networking opportunities with fellow divers and industry professionals, learning about the different dive operators and dive tourism packages and services as well as the latest diving equipment, gear and technology.



In addition to the exhibition hall, ADEX also features a range of talks about the latest conservation efforts and initiatives of the tourism boards across the world, protecting the oceans and marine life. 


“For our island based and archipelagic economy, pursuing sustainable tourism is the way for safeguarding our resources, and our means of livelihood.  That is why we at the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines ensure that conservation and sustainable development are incorporated into every tourism activity that we craft,” shares Nograles.


Expected to draw close to 30,000 attendees, ADEX 2023 is a great opportunity to connect and share knowledge and experiences, learn new diving techniques and technologies, explore new diving sites, and support marine conservation efforts with fellow divers, customers and trade representatives.


Awesome self-expression and awesome entertainment anywhere is now accessible to everyone with the latest Samsung Galaxy A Series phones, which are now up for pre-order from March 15 – 30, 2023.

Pre-order the Samsung Galaxy A54 and A34 5G and enjoy a discount worth PHP 2,949, including a free travel adapter and a storage upgrade. During pre-order period, the 8+256 GB memory variant of the Galaxy A54 5G is priced at PHP 24,990 instead of PHP 26,990, while the 8+128GB variant of the Galaxy A34 5G is priced at PHP 19,990 instead of PHP 21,990. 

If you want to trade in your old device, you can also enjoy savings of up to PHP 10,150. Bundle deals are also available with other Samsung devices – get 50% off on the Galaxy Buds2 Pro and Galaxy Buds2, and 30% off on the Galaxy Watch5 Series.

The Galaxy A54 and A34 5G is available for pre-order through samsung.com, Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com and MemoXpress Online. 


Awesome Upgraded Design

The Galaxy A54 5G and A34 5G have received some awesome upgrades to their design. They come in a slim and sleek unibody for a more comfortable hand feel with a minimalist camera housing. The metallic finish includes a luxe glossy back glass panel for the A54 5G and a prism patterned back panel for the A34 5G that are #aesthetic.

The Galaxy A54 5G and a A34 5G also comes in trendy colourways - the Galaxy A54 5G will be available in Awesome Lime, Awesome Graphite with the Awesome Violet as an online exclusive offer, while the Galaxy A34 5G will be available in Awesome Graphite and Awesome Violet. 


Awesome Photography and Videography 

The Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G delivers stunning images with clear quality and comes with a variety of creative editing tools for awesome photos and videos.  The A54 5G comes with a 50 MP main camera, 32 MP selfie camera, a 12 MP ultrawide and a 5 MP Macro camera while the A34 5G 48 MP main camera, 13 MP selfie camera, an 8 MP ultrawide and a 5 MP Macro camera.

The Galaxy A54 5G and A34 5G also produces video with amazing clarity, combatting shakiness and blur with improved optical image stabilization (OIS) and video digital image stabilization (VDIS).  For those awesome nightlife shots, Night mode helps users to capture more detail by increasing the camera’s pixel size.

It’s also easier to remove unwanted shadows, reflections and objects, thanks to the enhanced object eraser. Getting better quality photos and gif videos is also a lot easier with the enhanced photo and gif remastering tools on the latest Galaxy A series devices.


Awesome Performance with Vivid Display 

Both the A54 5G and A34 5G feature immersive Super AMOLED displays, 6.4-inch on the Galaxy A54 5G and 6.6-inch on the Galaxy A34 5G, with FHD+ resolution for realistic colours. They also come with a hyper-reactive display at 120H refresh rate to make opening apps and gaming a smooth operation, and improved brightness and outdoor visibility with 1,000 nits of brightness so that you can easily move between different lighting conditions.

Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G also guarantee up to four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates. These features allow users to access the latest software and security to maximize the smartphone lifecycle.


Awesome Connectivity and Battery Life 

Both devices come with fast 5G connectivity for awesome downloads, streaming and gaming possibilities. They also offer super-fast charging – get up to 50% at only 30 minutes of charging and get more than 2 days of power with a single charge. When it comes to uninterrupted content creation, video playbacks and gaming sessions, the A54 5G and A34 5G are truly awesome!

The Galaxy A54 5G and A34 5G were built to last – it was designed to withstand dust and sand and can even withstand up to 1 meter of fresh water for up to 20 mins.

So if you can’t wait to meet your awesome new best buddy, pre-order the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G or the A34 5G now!



Returning to the global scene with the biggest delegation of tourism stakeholders to date, the Philippines made a big comeback at the Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB) 2023 Convention in Messe Berlin, Germany on 07 to 09 March 2023, spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its marketing and promotion arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the combined group of 26 co-exhibitors from the public and private sector consisting of 40 delegates attending the event. TPB Chief Operating Officer Margarita Nograles and other DOT officials also joined the Secretary. The Philippines is expected to highlight the country’s tourism developments and product offerings to over 160,000 visitors expected to attend the world's largest travel and tourism trade fair. 



The Philippines’ participation at the ITB Berlin aims to strengthen the country’s global tourism campaign through partnership opportunities with various tourism private sectors including tour operators, online travel agencies, new online distribution platforms, travel websites and communities, journalists, and influencers, among others.



“The ITB Berlin holds great opportunities for the Philippines to showcase to the world its award-winning destinations such as Boracay, Cebu, Siargao, and Palawan, and also to include Banaue, Intramuros, and South Cotabato, among others. We also look forward to giving the world a view into our distinct and diverse culture, as well as the country’s best asset: the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people,” said Secretary Frasco.


“Our participation is pursuant to further positioning the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse in Asia, and hopefully the world in the years ahead,” she added, citing also that the ITB attendance will help fastrack the recovery efforts by the DOT of the pandemic-hit industry.


The Philippines booth at the ITB Berlin featured the country’s rich culture and sustainable tourism through the artistic works of T’nalak weaver Myrna Pula of South Cotabato and Yakan Weaver and Entrepreneur Angelita Pichay Ilul of Zamboanga. Moreover, visitors got a taste of Philippine coffee and chocolates through Kape de Filipina, a brand offering products meticulously grown by farmers and communities in the Philippines. 


The DOT and TPB will then host a cocktail reception for international buyers, Philippine sellers and industry partners on the second day of the convention where they were treated with traditional Filipino cuisine by Ayan, a Filipino street food restaurant based in Berlin and live performances from Lapu Lapu Arnis de Abanico, Songwriter and Singer David Mercado and Princess Virtudazo.



“What we have showcased in this year’s ITB is just a glimpse of our country’s rich culture and wide range of tourism offerings, curated to bring more ideas and inspiration to promote the Philippines as a meaningful and purposeful destination. We are more than ready to welcome you to our home. Come visit to witness, firsthand, the Philippine Experience,” enthused TPB COO Nograles.


This year, more tourism stakeholders joined the Philippine delegation to reintroduce the country as a world-class tourism destination such as Airtrav Philippines, Araw Hospitality Inc., Amorita Resort, Annset Holidays, Inc., Baron Travel Corporation, Blue Horizons Travel & Tours Inc., Bohol Beach Club, Chroma Hospitality Inc. (Crimson Hotels & Resorts), Club Agutaya Inc., CTPH lifestyle & Travel Services, Divaishnavi International Inc., El Nido Resorts, Evasion Tropicale Travel and Tours, GI Philippines Corp., Intas Destination Management Inc., Marsman Drysdale Travel Inc., MyTRIPS Travel and Tours,  Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Rajah Tour Philippines, Sharp Travel Service, Sarah Lea Travel and Tours, The Funny Lion, Total Exhibit & Expo Solutions, Inc., Travelexperts, Inc., Travelite Travel and Tours Co., and the Philippine Retirement Authority.


Negros Occidental bags Green Story Destination Awards


Two Negros Occidental cities brought honor to the country during the Green Destinations Awards at the ITB Berlin 2023 after being recognized for their inspirational sustainable tourism practices and efforts.


Sagay City bagged the People's Choice Award and ranked 2nd under Nature and Scenery Category with its entry, "Mangrove Forest Protection through Community-based EcoTourism Project". The city’s Suyac Island Mangrove Ecopark, located inside the Sagay Marine Reserve, is the first fully community-based ecotourism site in Sagay, that offers an unparalleled experience and allows travelers to connect with nature and local culture.


Another pride of Negros Occidental, Bago City’s entry “Reviving the Majestic Diversity of Bago Watershed” was awarded 3rd among the finalists under Environment and Climate Category. Bago City’s Watershed plays a vital role in steering the wheel of the economy of Negros Occidental by supplying water to about 19,000 hectares of agricultural areas. To protect, conserve and rehabilitate the watershed, the city government mobilized its resources and strengthened community involvement through Integrated Ecosystem Management Approach (Ridge to Reef Environmental Management).



The prestigious Green Destinations Story Awards at the ITB Berlin showcases the most inspirational initiatives for sustainable tourism development from stories submitted to the yearly Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition.



With the long-term goal of securing increased arrivals, receipts, and investments for the country, TPB annually participates in the ITB Berlin, which provides the Philippine travel trade an opportunity to network with relevant decision-makers from new and existing tourism markets across Europe, America, and Asia.




The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism, recently led the opening ceremony of the Philippine M.I.C.E. Conference (MICECON), the country's premier gathering for professionals in the meetings, incentive travel, conventions, and exhibitions, in Davao City. With the theme "MICEConverge: Blaze New Trails", the 3-day event was designed to surpass previous MICECON events, boost tourism and economic activities, and showcase Davao City as a preferred MICE destination in the Philippines and in Asia. Photo shows (standing fourth from left) Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the TPB, alongside Atty. Jay Melchor B. Quitain, Jr., Vice Mayor of Davao City. Surrounding them are members of the Kathara Dance Collective, representing the 11 tribes of Davao.



For more news, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph


 After 10 years, the Philippine M.I.C.E.Conference (MICECON) returns to Davao City where it will showcase the region’s rich culture, stunning natural environments, vast culinary offerings, and vibrant hospitality to a global audience. The convention will be held at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier on 1-3 March 2023 with over 600 participants from the tourism and business events sector.


 

The MICECON 2023 is the biggest gathering of the Meetings, Incentive Travel and Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) professionals in the country bringing together a special mix of local and foreign delegates in the MICE industry to learn about the different global trends in business meetings, witness the beautiful sceneries of the premier city of the south, and invite them for networking opportunities with both the local and international MICE experts. This is in collaboration with the City Government of Davao, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

 

One of the key developments in the business meetings industry is the rise of “bleisure” or combining business and leisure travel experiences. Davao stands as a shining example of the country’s bleisure destinations with its varied cultural and entertainment offerings for business travelers. Davao is home to 11 indigenous tribes and has a rising expat population from varied religious and cultural backgrounds. Blessed with pristine beaches, amazing dive spots, an abundance of flora and fauna, the freshest and quality produce, and delicious cuisines which tourists crave for, Davao City is an ideal bleisure destination. It also continues to grow its capacity as a MICE destination with more venues and accommodations for conventions as well as professionals who show the Philippines’ best quality of hospitality, diversity, peace, and stability.




 

A global panel joins MICECON 2023

 

MICECON 2023 will highlight sustainability, inclusivity, and legacy as key themes to discuss at the conference. Global travel guide, TripZilla, was awarded the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines as Sustainability Leader of the Year for 2022 in its TripZilla Excellence Awards. The cities of Bago and Sagay in Negros Occidental have been nominated for the Green Destinations Story Awards. In 2022, the City of Dreams Manila hotels bagged the ASEAN Green Hotel Award at the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cambodia. These global recognitions showcase the country’s efforts towards becoming a key sustainable leisure, MICE, and investment destination.

 

The roster of speakers includes Pacific Asia Travel Association President, Liz Ortiguera, who will lead the first plenary and discuss the global trends in the travel industry for 2023. She will be followed by Filipina global advocate for sustainability and President/CEO of the Society for Sustainable Tourism and Development, Susan Cardenas, to delve into how to integrate sustainability in conventions and exhibitions. World-renowned keynote speaker and Founder of Pathwayz Group, Amber Venderburg, will be conducting a breakout lecture on the first day but will later address the plenary on the second day to talk about Legacy as the MICE industry moves forward.

 



A series of advertising and media executives will share communication and storytelling techniques to help participants cope with the communication gaps for their events and promotions. Among the confirmed speakers are Peng Ee Ooi who is the Publisher of the TTG Tourism Group, Ron Jabal who sits as the CEO of PAGEONE Group, and Alan Elliot Merschen who founded The SIGMUND Project and concurrently serves as a partner for International Insights under MMGY Global.

 

“We are proud to have a strong panel of speakers for this year’s MICECON. This is our commitment to our MICE stakeholders to provide access to the best and most relevant information that will help upskill their teams and revisit our world-renowned Filipino standard of service as we cater to a new and better normal in the tourism sector,” shares Tourism Promotions Board Philippines Chief Operating Officer, Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

 

Another innovation in the program is a personal development segment to help tourism frontliners with power dressing featuring Philippine weaves. This puts on the spotlight modern ways of incorporating the country’s cultural heritage in apparel and how it can be showcased with fashion-forward designs and uses, while keeping the spirit of the tradition and preserving the art of weaving. The workshop will be done by the co-founder of STYLEdit Group and top fashion stylist, Kat Cruz – Villanueva.

 



Integrated in the 3-day conference is the evaluation of the bidding proposals received for the hosting of MICECON 2024. A panel from the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, and the MICE Advisory Council composed of private and public sector representatives will evaluate the proposal if it meets the criteria for logistics support, engagement of local stakeholders, and infrastructure capacity to host the event.

 

Social responsibility integrating sustainability and legacy

 

Corporate social responsibility is always at the core of MICECON. This year will be at the Philippine Eagle Center in Barangay Malagos, Davao City. Flowing from the industry’s thrust to highlight sustainability in its tourism efforts, MICECON delegates will visit the sanctuary in the hopes of raising awareness of the preservation of critically endangered species housed in the Philippine Eagle Center. The center welcomes donations as it continues to expand its care for more animal species and breeding of Philippine Eagles.

 



"Eco-travel elements such as community immersions, working on nature reserve, protection areas, or engaging in conservation work have risen in recent years. In a corporate social responsibility initiative we integrate sustainability and legacy by enjoining our delegates to take part in the conservation of the Philippine Eagle”, said Nograles.

 

The MICECON event is made possible with the support of the following sponsors: Canadian Tourism and Hospitality Institute, Cebu Pacific, Cvent, Destileria Limtuaco & Co.,Inc., Duty Free Philippines, Engkanto Brewery, Eudoo Technologies, Hotel 101, MAC Cosmetics Philippines, Philippine Airlines, and TIEZA.




Delicious treats and some entertainment activities will also delight the guests at the conference courtesy of the following sponsors: Department of Tourism Region XI and Waterfront Insular Hotel for the Welcome Dinner; Villa Margarita for the first day; Agriya, Panorama Summit Hotel, Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Discovery Samal, Acacia Hotel, Royal Mandaya Hotel, and Rogen Inn for the second day; Annipie Bakery Cafe, Davao Region Cacao Development Council, Cacao City, Davao Bakers Club, Inc., Phil. Baking Institute, Maan’s Bakery, Davao Region Coffee Council, Coffee for Peace, and Dusit D2 Davao for the last day of activities.



While venue-related and logistical sponsors are as follows: Al-ag Group of Companies, Habi at Kape, Holiday Group, Holiday Tours, Invex Philippines, JVA Group of Companies, M. Tanoy Concepts, MGCP Steelworks and Allied Services, Mr & Mrs B, Park Inn by Radisson, PLDT Enterprise, Seda Abreeza Hotel, SM Lanang Premier, SMX Convention Center, The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases, and Zegen Management Group.


The success of the event is also with the generous support and contributions of 1st Congressional District of Davao City, Aboitiz, Alsons Development and Investment Corp., Anchor Land, Davao City Water District, Land Bank of the Philippines, Mr. & Mrs. Jose Claro H. Velez, PAGCOR, PBA Partylist, PHINMA Property Holdings Corporation, Sta. Lucia Land, Inc., Uratex, and Vista Land.

 

Check out www.tpb.gov.ph for more information.