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Tourism: General, Incentives For Investment
Tourism: General, Incentives For Investment
Tourism: General, Incentives For Investment
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Tourism
General, incentives for investment
Some of the most beautiful places in the whole world are situated in the Philippines. These
include, for example, the white-sanded Boracay Island, Baguio, the summer resort, and Palawan,
the last frontier of the Philippines.
The warm, hospitable and friendly Filipinos have a special way of making travellers feel
welcome. This has strongly contributed to the development of the tourist industry in the
Philippines.
The Board of Investments offers attractive incentives to tourism investors. These include 100%
equity participation, income tax holidays and the possibility for capital repatriation. Fiscal
incentives are, however, limited to existing and potential investment centers for tourism
development outside the Metro Manila Area.
The following tourism activities are registrable and entitled to incentives: development of tourism
estate, establishment and modernization of accommodation facilities and operation of tourist
transport facilities.
Ecotourism
The concept of ecotourism is to help protect the environment in which tourism thrives, from
natural resources, and flora and fauna to cultures. It does not limit itself to nature-related tourism
like scuba diving or wilderness tours, but concerns the whole tourist industry as well. Once
understood and practiced, it guarantees sustainable development of the tourism industry not only
for present generations, but for coming generations as well.
Ecotourism is a small but growing segment of the industry. It minimizes the negative
environmental impact of tourism in natural areas and maximizes the economic and social benefits
of tourism for the local communities. The Philippine Department of Tourism provides continuous
research on ecotourism activities.
Rated as one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, Northern Palawan represents one of
the nation's most environmentally and culturally sensitive areas. It is not earmarked for mass
markets. Rather, its primary goal is to develop a tourism sector that is both environmentally and
socially sensitive, sustainable, and internationally recognized.
Adventures
Known as a beach haven for celebrities and travel enthusiasts, the country's unique 7,107-island
geography makes the destination just as perfect for travelers looking for adventure, nature, and
culture.
The Philippines' diverse natural wonders make us a sought-after destination among the pack of
adventurers; those who choose to explore outdoor escapes.
While adventurism has just recently been recognized as a global trend, the Philippines has been
catering to this demand as a way of life being blessed with mountains, caves, white waters,
name it, the Philippines has it!
Air Adventures
Do you get thrills from thousands of feet in the air? Then let the Philippines satisfy your aerial
cravings!
Sky Divings
If skydiving is your passion, then the Philippines is the right place for you. The countrys
affordable skydiving packages allow you to fulfill your dream of hurtling through the sky while
marveling at the majestic views. The Skydiving Center in Tanauan, Batangas presents one of the
most spectacular skydiving scenery in the world, with a drop zone between Mount Makiling and
Taal Volcano.
Ultralight Flying/Helicopter Sightseeing
Ultralight flying is the most basic, elemental of light. Its also the most exhilarating. While it may
be expensive in other parts of the world, its well within your budget I the Philippines. Clark
Field in Pampanga, a few hours north of Manila, has the most affordable Ultralight flying
packages, allowing you to experience the sensation of flying without paying a fortune. A
commendable safety record and world-class pilot support make ultralight flying in he Philippines
as safe as it is thrilling.
Land Adventures
On just all about of Philippines 7107 islands, you can find exhilarating extreme adventures that
allow you to explore our natural wonders.
Mountain Biking
Whether youre a hardcore downhiller, or a jungle trail rider, or you simply crave for a leisure
ride on flat bike trails, the Philippines is for you and you dont even have to go far from Manila.
There are excellent bike bike trails in the outskirts of the capital namely those in San Mateo,
Rizal, and Santa Rosa, Laguna. But for demanding technical riding, you must try out the Aeta
Jungle Luge trail in Subic Bay Freeport, or head off to Baguio City. Its a jump-off point for
many mountain bike trails that begin at the outskirts of the city and take riders as far as La Union
and Nueva Vizcaya. Sagada is also a popular destination for mountain bikers. The Visaya Region
is likewise dotted with dozens of trails like the Die Hard Trail in Loboc, Bohol.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing has caught on big in the Philippines. There are currently about a dozen indoor
walls in Metro Manila, plus great outdoor sites near Mania. Montalban, with its limestone cliffs
as high as 300 feet, is a popular destination. There are also terrific cliffs near Baguio in the north,
and down south in Atimonan, Quezon. But for a truly exotic rock climbing experience, check out
the spectacular cliffs at El Nido and Coron; near the world-class beach resorts of Palawan.
Trekking
The Philippines is full of great trekking and mountaineering spots. Mountaineers flock to the
nations highest peaks, like Mount Pulag in the north and Mount Apo, the countrys highest peak,
in the southern island of Mindanao. But there are other great hiking and trekking sites, like the
eerily beautiful Mount Pinatubo crater. Light treks can also be enjoyed in the outlying provinces
of Metro Manila, like Laguna, Batangas, and Bulacan.
Cave Exploration
The Philippines is a haven for cave exploration enthusiasts. The caves in Sagada feature
spectacular lime formations. These caves are also ancestral burial sites for the local indigenous
people. the famous Callao cave has a chapel made of gothic-like arches formed by stalagmites
and stalactites. And at dusk, visitors are treated to the sights of thousands of bats streaming out of
the mouth of the cave. Meanwhile in Palawan, you can explore the St. Paul Subterranean River,
the worlds longest underground waterway. No doubt there are still hundreds of fascinating caves
in the Philippines that are still waiting to be discovered.
Bird Watching
The Philippines is truly a birdwatchers dream. The country is home to over 760 species of birds,
including some of the rarest species in the world. The Candaba Swamp in Pampanga is a wellknown bird sanctuary. As a stopover for birds migrating from the north Asia, rare birds like the
Eurasian spoonbill and schrencks bittern have been spotted there. The Olango Island Wildlife
Sanctuary, near Cebu, is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 50 different species of migratory
birds have been spotted here, including the rare Chinese egret.
Water Adventures
If you like getting your thrills above and underneath the waves, then the Philippines has so much
to offer!
Sea Kayaking
Paddling out to sea is a great way to commune with nature. Sea kayaking packages are widely
available all over the archipelago, but the prime spot for the sport has to be the Calamian Islands
off Palawan. There you will discover the pristine, palm-fringed limestone island that the
indigenous people of the area, the Tagbanuas, have been exploring for generations. Subic Bay
and Boracay, two major vacation spots, also offer sea kayaking.
Scuba Diving
Divers around the world agree: the Philippines has some of the finest scuba diving sites on the
planet. The archipelago is te center of marine fish biodiversity and home to most diverse marine
ecosystem in the world. The options are endless. Night dives in Anilao, Batangas reveal unusual
creatures like sea goblins, blue-ringed octopi, mandarin fishes and ghost-pipe fishes. The popular
Puerto Galera resort in Mindoro offers a close-up look at fascinating coral gardens and colorful
sea creatures. Balicasag island, off the coast of Bohol, has spectacular black coral forest and
caves to explore. But nothing leaves divers in awe like the legendary Tubbattaha reefs, known for
their underwater splendor. In fact, Tubbattaha was declared on of UNESCOs World Natural
Heritage sites because of its sheer beauty.
Board Sports
These new board sorts are taking the Philippines by storm. Kiteboarding, where you ride the
waves while tethered to a giant kite, has proven to be a huge attraction at the beach paradise of
Boracay, is a mecca for boardsailing enthusiasts. Wakeboarding is a unique thrill especially at the
Camsur Watersports Complex near Naga City, an hours flight from Manila. This new, man-made
watersports park is the epicenter for wakeboarding in the country.
Surfing
Whether youre a novice surfer or a veteran tube rider, the Philippines has a surf venue for you.
Beginners can hone skills in La Union, Zambales, or Leyte. Baler, in the province of Aurora,
offers great Pacific Ocean surfing just a few hours away from Manila. But hardcore surfers must
make a beeline to Siargao. This island off Mindanao is home to the legendary Cloud Nine break,
where the Pacific Ocean regularly serves up to ten-foot waves that offer the ultimate surfing high
Diving/Scuba
visit at least once, to get the real heart of sport. The country is a veritable smorgasbord of worldclass dive sites set in a lush tropical environment with all the trappings you could ever wish for.
The Philippines is a scuba divers dream come true. The warm waters surrounding the Philippines
7,107 islands present an underwater wildlife extravaganza, so spectacular that divers return for an
average of 10 trips each.
Dive into crystal clear waters underwater visibility of up to 60 meters, discover shipwrecks, cliffs
covered with sponges, colorful corals, gorgonians, turtles, sharks, rays, and even the very rarely
seen exotic fishes like Spanish Dancer, harlequin ghost-pipefish, camouflaged frogfish and fire
gobies. Thanks to the convergence of the nutrient rich waters of the Pacific Ocean, South China
Sea and Celebes Sea, you will be a spectator to an aquatic symphony of over 2,000 species of
marine fish as well as more than 400 out of the 500 known coral species in the world.
The Philippines is divided into 3 geographical areas: Luzon, Visayas & Mindanao. All regions
offer premier destinations for divers amidst lush tropical environment with excellent underwater
views.
So whether youre just after a relaxing dive with spectacular views or a chance to perfect your
macro photography skills, take on these dive spots for the best of all worlds. So whether you're
just after a relaxing dive with spectacular views or a chance to perfect your macro photography
skills, take on these dive spots for the best of all worlds.
Golfing
Tee off and experience the beautiful settings of the Philippines unique golfing enclaves, from
lush valleys to mountaintops, seaside resorts, or just within the cityscapes. The courses have been
designed by golf's premier architects, radiating the strategic brilliance of such greats as Jack
Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr., among others. Play at venues
that have been proud sites of some of the most prestigious international and local tournaments,
like the Johnnie Walker Classic, the World Amateur Golf Championships, the World Cup, The
Asian PGA, and the Philippine Open.
wide fairways and a good size of greens suitable for very relaxed and leisurely rounds of the
game.
Medical Tourism
The Philippines has been growing as a tourist destination of choice for health and vacation
because of our world class physicians, modern technology, and our uniquely Filipino brand of
caring and compassion at great values for money with only a fraction of the cost in developed
countries. We are home to some of the best hospitals and stand-alone specialty clinics in the
world, offering world-class expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, topped with the distinct warmth
of the famous Filipino hospitality. We also have some of the world's best spa retreat resorts and
tour destinations in this part of the earth
History
The Philippines has a rich history beginning from its earliest days as one of the busiest trading
posts in South East Asia and later, in the trans-Pacific galleon trade. A period of Spanish
colonization spanning three centuries then made an indelible impression on the country. This
mercurial era, along with the American occupation, played a vital role in shaping the Philippines
and its people. A vivid past has left its mark all over the archipelago in many different forms that
present-day visitors to the country are now discovering.
The rich Philippine heritage can be experienced, not only in textbooks and museums, but also in
beautifully preserved historical sites across the country. A simple textbook description of a
historical event comes to life upon a visit to the place where it unfolded. Isla ng Corregidor, or
simply, Corregidor, is now a tranquil island where the epic dramatic Battle of Corregidor took
place during the last world war. In a country like the Philippines, where history is kept alive, one
doesn't need to go far to travel back in time.
Heritage
and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The area also represents a significant habitat
for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a whole ecosystem --- from mountain to the sea;
and protects forests, which are among the most significant in Asia.
A highlight of each visit is a ride through its 8 km-long underground river which runs through a
dome of stalactites complemented by stalagmites running the entire length of the cave.
The park is a popular destination for bird watching and is known for regular sightings of
threatened bird species of Palawan peacock-peasant and Philippine cockatoo and the endemic
birds Palawan scopsowl, swiftlet, hornbill, flyeater and blue flycatcher, tit and flowerpecker. It is
blessed to have the Palawan flying fox, Oriental small-clawed otter, stinkbadger, binturong,
flying squirrel, mountain tree squirrel and porcupine.
The park also features an exciting Monkey Trail with its series of wooden paths to the forest.
The 16th century town of Vigan is an exceptionally intact and well-preserved example of a
European trading town in East and East Asia. Its architecture reflects the fusion of cultural
elements from the Philippines, China and Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that has no
parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.
Seemingly impervious to time, spared from rebellion and the ravages of war, Vigan has remained
unchanged and its many preserved historic sites more than 180 edifices make it look like a
piece of Spain. With its grand cathedral, massive mansions with red-tile roofs and spacious
balconies, narrow cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages, and friendly faces peering out of
large windows, Vigan is a place where time stood still.
Baroque Churches
Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993
The structural design of the church is extraordinary. It boasts of the only example in the country
of a barrel vault, dome and arched vestibules, supporting its choir loft, all made of stone. Its
faade is notable for its two pairs of columns the lowest pair in Doric style, the upper pair in
Corinthian topped by a pediment surmounted by a Cross. The main door, carved out of Philippine
molave, has a bas-relief of St. Augustine and his mother, Santa Monica. San Agustin Church
represents the art and technology of Spanish, Chinese, and native cultures fused together to suit
human sentiments and faiths that found expression in customs and traditions that were evolved
through the centuries.
As the best-preserved example of an urban ecclesiastical complex in the Philippines, the
compound serves not only as a historical document of the Spanish colonial heritage but also as a
repository of the most important works of art and literature of the period.
Miag-ao Church in Iloilo
Built in yellow-orange sandstone, the large fortress-church of Miag-ao was completed in 1797. It
served as a fortress against raids of marauding Moro pirates.
The church is amazingly beautiful because of its two asymmetric pyramidal towers and its finely
sculptured, yellow sandstone faade. Its faades carving is the pinnacle of Filipino nave art, in
which craftsmen abandon all restraints to interpret Western decorative styles in the local folk
idiom. The central element in the faade is Saint Christopher, clad like a Filipino farmer with
rolled-up trousers. He carries the Christ Child on his back while holding on to a lush coconut tree
for support. Beside him are guava and papaya trees, flanked by ornamental urns. The scene
merges Western Catholic iconography with a folk interpretation of coastal Iloilo countryside.
San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte
Photo by Anna Buenaventura.
The faade of San Agustin Church is astounding but its most prominent feature is the phalanx of
buttresses that juts out perpendicularly from the sidewalls, purposely to strengthen the walls
and the entire structure against earthquake damage. Fourteen massive S-shaped buttresses rise
in rhythmic cadence from the ground to the roofline.
The church is an eye-catcher as it emerges from a beautiful open space, unlike many other
churches located within urban settings.
Nuestra Seora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
The Church of Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria is unique for its utter disregard for
the traditional Spanish urban plan of constructing the church to face the plaza, and less imposing
religious and official buildings grouped around. It also has a citadel appearance as the church,
with its convent and bell tower, stands alone on the crown of a solitary hill encircled by a
stonewall, with stone stairways leading to the church.
It is the only church in the Philippines exuding the ambience of a Mediterranean hill town with its
convent built parallel to the church faade and its bell tower detached from the main church.
Evoking a Chinese pagoda, the bell tower of octagonal shapes of decreasing diameter is crowned
by a small dome, tapering to the sky with an oriental grace.
response to market developments which embraced the new, more specialized, and qualityoriented Incentive Travel Industry. In recent years, the meetings, conventions, and incentive
travel industry evolved into an even wider representation of several specialized sector of tourism
to encompass exhibition and events. The convention industry now became known by the
acronym: MICE, which stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events.
As Asias pioneer in conventions, the Philippines can easily host an international event with
expertise and creative approaches. More importantly, though, it offers the added incentive of
discovering 7,107 island experiences: breathtaking natural wonders that range from the golden
sunset of Manila Bay to the virgin rain forests and mysterious underground rivers of Palawan;
from historic Intramuros and Vigan to the graceful mosques and indigenous tribes of Muslim
Mindanao; from golfing greens to 44,097 square meters of coral reef dive sites teeming with
marine life; from innumerable pristine white-sand beaches to the wonder that is the Banaue Rice
Terraces.
But however each visitor experiences the Philippines, what shines through is the genuine warmth
and gracious hospitality that comes naturally from the heart of every Filipino. This is the
heartware, the extra touch which adds a special, welcoming spark to each guests stay. It is an
added perk that makes any convention or incentive trip to the Philippines a memory that will last
a lifetime.
CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION FACILITIES
1. PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER (PICC)
An architectural landmark on its own, housing works of various Filipino master artists in
painting, the Philippine International Convention Center made history as Asias first
convention center, setting a trend that led to countries to build their own.
Night Entertainment
Spanish-American past. Manila has thrived and survived it all, a bustling megalopolis of 17 cities
and municipalities and over 12 million inhabitants.
Volunteer Tourism
under construction
Wedding/Honeymoons
THAILAND
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Activities
http://www.discoverhongkong.com/uk/see-do/great-outdoors/index.jsp