Thinking of Going Home This Summer? Here’s How to Make It More Manageable

There’s something about summer that naturally makes you think of home. It’s in the longer days, the school breaks, the fiestas, and those familiar moments that feel best shared with family.

But let’s be honest, traveling home to the province isn’t as easy as it used to be. Rising costs and day-to-day expenses have turned what was once a simple “Uwi ako this weekend” into something that needs a bit more planning.

The good news is that going home is still possible. With the right preparation and a little help when you need it, those summer plans don’t have to stay as “sana.” They can turn into something you can actually look forward to. Because at the end of the day, going home isn’t about spending big. It’s about being there.

Making Essential Trips More Manageable

Start with a clear, realistic budget

Planning your trip early can make a big difference. List down your expected expenses, from transportation and meals to small extras, so you know exactly what to prepare for. If you're flying back home to visit the family, you don’t have to shoulder the ticket cost all at once. GGives lets you book your flights now and pay in lighter, split payments, so you can manage the cost more comfortably over time.

Prepare for unexpected gastos

Even simple trips home can come with surprise costs like extra rides or pasalubong. Whether you’re heading home via bus or taking a ferry to the province, you can stay flexible by using GCredit to book your tickets via QR. You can travel now and pay later, with a limit of up to 50K. If you’re driving, you can also use GCredit via GBills to top up your RFID on the go, for an uninterrupted road trip.

Space out your expenses when you can

Booking early, watching for seat sales, or planning ahead can help spread costs over time. And when timing matters, especially during peak travel seasons, GLoan offers instant cash access to give you the flexibility you need. Easily manage fares across different modes of transport as needed, and keep your journey moving without the stress.

Focus on what truly matters

A meaningful trip home doesn’t have to be elaborate. Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments, like sharing meals, catching up, or just being present, that make it worthwhile. With the right support to help manage costs, you can focus less on the stress and more on the time spent together.

A Little Help Goes a Long Way

Sometimes, all it takes is the right kind of support to turn plans into reality, especially during summer when being home feels even more important.

GLoan – Instant Cash for Your Travel: For moments that can’t wait, whether it’s a family gathering, a special occasion, or a much-needed visit, GLoan helps you secure your trip with quick access to funds.

GCredit – Pay Later for Everyday Travel Expenses: From terminal fares to food along the way, GCredit lets you cover essential travel expenses instantly and pay later, helping reduce hassle when your GCash balance is running low.

GGives – Split Payments for Heavier Travel Expenses: For bigger commitments like airfare, hotels, or planned trips, GGives lets you break payments into more manageable installments, helping you plan ahead without the pressure of paying everything upfront.

This summer, going home can still be something to look forward to. With a bit of planning and the right support, it becomes less about “Kung kaya ba?” and more about “Kailan ako uuwi?” Because sometimes, the journey home to the province is exactly what you need, and now it’s closer within reach.

So if it’s been on your mind, take it as a sign. Baka kaya na. Baka pwede na. And this time, going home can feel a little more within reach.

2GO Partners with Ceres Liner to Enhance Intermodal Passenger Connectivity

PASAY CITY, Philippines, 11 May 2026 — 2GO, one of the Philippines’ leading sea travel providers, has entered a strategic partnership with Vallacar Transit, Inc., more commonly known for its Ceres Liner buses, to provide seamless shuttle services connecting sea and land transportation across key Philippine gateways.

 

Through the agreement, Ceres Liner will deploy dedicated shuttle buses to transport 2GO vessel passengers from their point of disembarkation at port terminals. Its first leg was launched from Nasipit Port to a Ceres Terminal in Butuan City, with Cebu and Cagayan de Oro to follow soon, improving end-to-end travel convenience and accessibility for local travelers.

 

2GO Travel passengers can easily reserve their seats onboard before disembarking, creating a seamless movement from pier to terminal while synchronizing Ceres shuttle operations. This integrated approach enables more efficient passenger movement, reduces waiting time, and ensures better alignment between vessel arrivals and land transfers.

 

“This partnership strengthens access for passengers traveling to and from nearby provinces, making it easier for more Filipinos to connect to key ports and continue their journeys across islands,” said Atty. Collin Derk Isidto, Vice President for Legal, Vallacar Transit Inc. “By improving connectivity between land and sea transport, we help enable more convenient and reliable inter-island travel.”

 

“We hope that through this collaboration, we enable not only regular travelers and groups, but also entrepreneurs and communities to access more destinations across the Philippines,” said Francis O. Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel. “This added convenience opens more opportunities for Filipinos to explore and connect across islands.”

 

This partnership reflects 2GO’s continued push to strengthen its logistics and travel ecosystem by connecting sea and land transport services. By integrating mobility solutions, the company aims to deliver a more seamless travel experience while expanding its role as a comprehensive transport and logistics provider.

 

The parties are also exploring additional ports and terminals as they look to further enhance connectivity nationwide.

 

Travelers bound for Butuan may visit the Front Office onboard for assistance with shuttle arrangements.

 

To learn more about this partnership, visit travel.2go.com.ph.

DTI, 2GO Travel Partner to Sail OTOP Products Across Philippine Seas

MAKATI CITY, Philippines, 14 April 2026 — 2GO, the country’s premier sea travel operator, formalized a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to further support the growth of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding their reach to wider markets through affordable sea travel for trade and the establishment of OTOP Nooks aboard 2GO Travel passenger vessels.

 

The agreement enables the availability of special discounted sea travel rates for DTI-endorsed MSMEs participating in official trade fairs. With up to 50 kilograms of baggage allowance, entrepreneurs can conveniently transport a variety of products across routes. Complementing these travel benefits is the rollout of OTOP Nooks across all 2GO Travel passenger ships, providing onboard retail spaces dedicated to showcasing and selling products from partner micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under the OTOP Philippines Program. The initiative creates new retail touchpoints for Filipino-made products while giving travelers access to locally crafted goods during their journeys.

 

DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for MSMEs, noting that “this initiative strengthens the presence of proudly Filipino products beyond their home regions and enables MSMEs to reach more consumers nationwide, with sea travel supporting their growth and mobility.”

 

2GO will offer special discounted rates for DTI-endorsed MSMEs joining official trade fairs, along with exclusive travel and cargo support to streamline their participation.

 

Francis John Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel, shared that “this collaboration allows both established and aspiring MSMEs to tap into our sea travel network, and we hope that they take advantage of their 50kg baggage allowance that comes with every 2GO Travel ticket. This actually means that starting and growing your own business has never been easier. Now, you can carry the trade you want to sell with you, bring your products directly to passengers across key routes, and strengthen your visibility while maximizing our onboard retail platform.”

The first OTOP partnership between DTI Region XII and 2GO Travel was launched onboard MV 2GO Masinag. With the signing of this nationwide MOA, the initiative now expands to cover all 2GO Travel passenger vessels, further connecting local entrepreneurs to a broader customer base.

 

For inquiries on MSME-exclusive travel offers, contact tours_groups@2go.com.ph.

Holy Week Travel Demand Surges as Filipinos Drive 50% Year-on-Year Growth in International Trips Abroad

MANILA, 31 March 2026 – Holy Week is rapidly emerging as one of the Philippines’ biggest travel moments, with Filipinos increasingly using the extended holiday to take longer leisure trips both domestically and abroad. According to global one-stop travel service provider Trip.com, outbound travel demand among Filipino travellers surged by 50% year-on-year for Holy Week 2026 compared to the same period last year, reflecting a strong appetite for international travel, especially to regional destinations.  

At the same time, domestic travel continues to anchor the holiday season, underscoring the continued importance of Philippine destinations during the Holy Week break. 

Together, these trends position Holy Week as a major travel and economic moment for Filipino travellers – driving demand across airlines, hotels, and tourism experiences. 

Top Outbound Destinations for Filipino Travellers 

Filipino travellers are continuing to favour destinations in Asia for their Holy Week holidays, drawn by short travel times, diverse cultural attractions, and vibrant shopping and dining scenes. Major cities across the region remain particularly popular for quick getaways, offering a mix of leisure, entertainment, and culinary experiences suited to the extended holiday break. 

Top 10 Outbound Destinations
1	Hong Kong
2	Tokyo
3	Singapore
4	Bangkok
5	Taipei
6	Osaka
7	Seoul
8	Macau
9	Kuala Lumpur
10	Hanoi

Table 1 

Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore rank among the most popular outbound destinations, followed by Bangkok and Taipei in the top five list (Table 1). This reflects Filipino travellers’ strong preference for nearby Asian cities, which offer convenient flight access, vibrant cultural experiences, and a variety of leisure and shopping experiences. 

Domestic Travel Remains a Strong Backbone 

Even as international travel gains momentum, domestic tourism continues to play a central role during Holy Week. Bookings rose by 25% year-on-year, highlighting the sustained demand for local destinations during the holiday period. 

The domestic destinations that are most popular among Filipino travellers include Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Malay (Boracay) and Davao del Sur (Table 2).  

Top 10 Domestic Destinations
1	Manila City
2	Cebu
3	Palawan
4	Malay (Boracay)
5	Davao del Sur
6	Bohol
7	Iloilo
8	Negros Occidental
9	Leyte
10	Misamis Oriental

Table 2 

Many travellers combine leisure trips with visits to their hometowns, making Holy Week one of the most important travel periods for domestic tourism each year. 

Filipinos Planning Earlier for the Holiday 

Trip.com’s latest booking data also suggest that Filipino travellers are becoming more deliberate when planning their Holy Week trips. On average, travellers are booking around 74 days before departure, indicating a preference for advanced trip planning as travellers look to secure flights, accommodations, and activities well ahead of the peak holiday period. The data also reveals that 3 April (Good Friday) is expected to be the busiest travel date, as many Filipinos begin their journeys at the start of the long holiday break. For some, this means returning to their home provinces for family gatherings and religious observances, while for others, it marks the start of extended leisure trips both within the Philippines and abroad. 

Travellers Opting for Longer Getaways 

Filipinos are increasingly using the Holy Week break to take extended vacations. 

The average trip length for Holy Week travel is approximately 9.57 days, largely in line with 2025’s 10.03 days, and reflecting a preference for multi-day getaways over short weekend trips. 

Longer stays allow travellers to explore multiple attractions or combine city visits with leisure experiences. 

A More Independent Traveller Is Emerging 

Trip.com’s data also highlights evolving traveller demographics during the Holy Week travel period in the Philippines. Women account for the majority of Holy Week travellers, making up about 60% of bookings, compared to 40% for male travellers. 

Meanwhile, travellers aged 35–49 represent the largest segment at 38%, followed by those aged 25–34 (21%), suggesting that working professionals are driving travel demand during the holiday period. 

One of the most notable behavioural shifts is the rise of independent travel. Nearly 70% of bookings are made by solo travellers, reflecting a growing preference for flexibility, personalised itineraries, and self-directed experiences. 

Indeed, Holy Week is emerging as one of the Philippines’ most significant travel periods supported by strong demand across both domestic and international markets. With outbound travel surging and local destinations remaining resilient, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest Holy Week travel seasons yet. 

Note: The trends highlighted in this media release are based on Trip.com booking data in the Philippines, comparing Holy Week 2026 (1 to 12 April 2026) with Holy Week 2025 (16 to 27 April 2025).

Your Connection is Your Miles: Globe Platinum Reimagines Travel with the All-New GPlan Featuring Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles

Modern explorers embrace travel as a fundamental way of life. They thrive on the thrill of morning coffee in a different time zone, the pursuit of a sunset on a new horizon, and the seamless transition from a high-stakes meeting to a quiet coastal retreat. Recognizing that the world serves as the ultimate destination for its members, Globe has officially signaled a new era of loyalty with the launch of the all-new Platinum GPlan featuring Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles.

This first-to-market innovation transforms the traditional mobile subscription into a continuous "passport for premium experiences," allowing customers to earn airline Miles automatically as part of their monthly plan.

Powering Your Perspective

Globe is shifting its focus from hardware to high-flying experiences, acknowledging that Platinum members prioritize elevated perks that match their sophisticated pace. While airport lounge access remains a staple benefit, the integration of Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles offers a value proposition that grows over time. This ensures that even during months spent at home, members steadily draw closer to their next getaway.

The new portfolio acknowledges the personal nature of value, offering three distinct paths to match a member's specific expression of their lifestyle. Options include the latest technology delivered seamlessly through curated flagship Devices, or boundless Connectivity featuring access to premium data and priority service. Those who view the world as their office and playground can instead turn their plan into an engine for Global Exploration by earning Miles.

"We are taking our commitment to the Platinum lifestyle to new heights," said Globe Platinum Director and Head of Strategy, Experience, and Transformation Leonard Grape. "What if your connection could actually be the reason you get to travel in the first place? With the Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, we are ensuring that your loyalty is rewarded with the ultimate luxury: the freedom to explore."

 

Seamless Experience, Continuous Rewards

In a life defined by constant movement, Globe aims to eliminate friction. This partnership with Philippine Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, ensures a seamless experience where Miles are credited directly to Mabuhay Miles accounts. These Miles can be redeemed with ease for flights, extra luggage allowance, seat upgrades, and inflight meals.

The new Platinum GPlan provides a structured path to travel through tiered monthly rewards designed for diverse journeys. Subscribers of the Platinum GPlan 3799 receive 800 Mabuhay Miles per month, while those on the Platinum GPlan 4999 earn 1,000 Mabuhay Miles. For the ultimate travel experience, the Platinum GPlan 7999 awards members 1,600 Mabuhay Miles monthly, allowing rewards to accumulate steadily toward a chosen destination.

A Gateway to the World

The Miles-enabled Platinum GPlan offers long-term value for the affluent customer who prioritizes experiences over frequent hardware upgrades. It ensures that every month of the subscription remains consistently relevant and rewarding.

"Platinum rewards your lifestyle, not just your phone," Globe Head of Platinum Mark Pasaylo said. "Whether you are flying for a high-stakes meeting or a quiet sunset in a new city, we want you to feel that your partnership with us is truly taking you places."

This initiative reinforces Globe Platinum's position as a lifestyle partner, combining signature perks like airport lounge access, digital lifestyle concierge, and priority store handling with a tangible, premium path to global exploration.

For more information on the all-new Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, visit [https://www.globe.com.ph/help/postpaid/mabuhay-miles].

Experience Taiwan at the Pavilion – Now at SMX Convention Center

Taiwan Tourism brings culture, creativity, and interactive travel experiences closer to Filipino travelers at the Taiwan Pavilion during the PTAA Travel Expo at SMX Convention Center.

Beyond destination displays, the Taiwan Pavilion is designed as an experiential zone where visitors can actively engage with Taiwan’s vibrant culture and tourism offerings. Guests can enjoy interactive games, hands-on DIY activities, and cultural showcases that reflect Taiwan’s unique blend of tradition and modern creativity. These activities highlight how Taiwan transforms travel into meaningful, memorable experiences—perfect for today’s experience-driven travelers.

Visitors can explore travel planning zones, connect directly with airline and travel partners, and discover curated travel packages tailored for Filipino travelers—from city lifestyle escapes and food adventures to nature, wellness, and multi-city Taiwan itineraries.

The pavilion also showcases Taiwan’s evolving tourism storytelling—where culture, creativity, and participation are central to how travelers discover destinations today. Whether you’re planning your next vacation, looking for new travel inspiration, or simply exploring new cultures, the Taiwan Pavilion offers something engaging for every visitor.

Visit the Taiwan Pavilion at the PTAA Travel Expo, SMX Convention Center.

Booth no 499 - 508, 521-530

✨ Join fun cultural games and activities

✨ Experience hands-on Taiwan DIY workshops

✨ Discover exclusive travel deals and packages

✨ Connect with trusted travel partners

Step in, explore, and start planning your next Taiwan journey today.

Charting New Horizons: Sun Life to Turn Dreams into Destinations this 2026

MANILA, PH – January 2026 – As the new year unfolds, dreams of adventure and exploration are coming true for three lucky Sun Life Philippines Clients who each bagged the grand prize travel voucher worth PHP 100,000 from Sun Life’s Client promos. These winners – Mayyi Daquila, Isadelle De Guzman, and Marvin Abrigo – prove that making bright choices can lead to unforgettable experiences.

 

A Conversation Away from your Dream Destination

In 2025, Sun Life held the Client Connect promo, which aimed to encourage Clients to talk to their advisor and schedule a financial needs analysis session. The prizes included VIP concert tickets at the Sun Life Premier Suite in the Mall of Asia Arena, and the grand prize of a PHP 100,000 travel voucher to any local or Asian destination. Mayyi Daquila, an IT business analyst and a Sun Life Client, was the grand prize winner of the Client Connect promo.

 

For Mayyi, this win became a reassuring sign that there will always be brighter days on the horizon. Months before this win, Mayyi’s mother had a stroke and her father was diagnosed with dementia. As they focused on taking care of Mayyi’s parents, plans of travel had to be put on hold. When she found out that she won the grand prize travel voucher, she invited her parents to join the trip, but they encouraged her to use it with her husband, Henry, and their daughter. “I took this win as a sign that I am allowed to rest and recharge,” said Mayyi. “Even though there are dark days, there will still be brighter days ahead.”

 

 

Brighter Possibilities with the Bright Quiz

Each month, Sun Life sends Clients a trivia question on insurance and investments through its email newsletter. By answering, participants automatically enter the Bright Quiz raffle for a chance to win Giftaway e-vouchers and the grand prize, a PHP 100,000 travel voucher to any local or Asian destination of their choice. Isadelle De Guzman, a senior Java developer and Sun Life Client, won the grand prize of the Bright Quiz promo for 2025.

 

After the pandemic, Isadelle had a desire to travel solo around the world. During this time, she also decided to move out of her family home and embrace her independence. “Now that I’m fully independent, I thought to myself: what else can I do?” Isadelle said. When she found out that she won the grand prize, she initially thought it was too good to be true. However, once it was confirmed that she would be receiving the PHP 100,000 travel voucher, she realized that she was given a fresh opportunity to further explore her independence and the possibilities it brings.

 

New Adventures and Travels for the New Year

 

Last holiday season, Sun Life launched the 12 Days of Christmas Promo to give Clients a chance to win Giftaway e-vouchers, VIP tickets to the Sun Life Premier Suite at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, and the PHP 100,000 travel voucher as the grand prize. All they had to do to join the promo was talk to their advisor and schedule a financial needs analysis session. Marvin Abrigo, a virtual assistant and Sun Life Client, was the grand prize winner of Sun Life’s 12 Days of Christmas promo.

 

Marvin has always had a passion for adventure, travel, and the outdoors. He loves the adrenaline rush of climbing a mountain or a discovering a new place. However, he also knows the value of being secure and having peace of mind. When his mother got sick, he struggled with medical bills and realized the importance of having insurance. “There will be things that happen in our lives that we don’t expect, and we’ll realize how important it is to be secure,” Marvin said. When he became the lucky grand winner of the 12 Days of Christmas promo, he also realized that being secure has its rewards. With this prize, he plans to travel to China and seek out new adventures along with his partner, Anthony.

 

Sun Life champions the importance of financial wellness, recognizing that smart choices can open doors to incredible possibilities. The stories of these three grand winners are a testament to this, showing that with thoughtful planning and a bit of luck, one’s dreams may turn into new destinations. These wins are a reminder that you can enjoy the perks of being a Sun Life Client, even without tapping into your policy.

 

To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Your Next Long Weekend Belongs by the Sea at DIscovery Samal

With multiple long weekends spread across the Philippine calendar in 2026, Discovery Samal invites travelers to plan ahead and make the most of their holiday breaks with its Island Escape offer, designed for restful stays by the sea and unhurried moments in a tropical setting.

Timed with the country’s long weekends throughout the year, the Island Escape promotion allows you to turn short holidays into meaningful island getaways. Whether planned months in advance or reserved for spontaneous breaks, the offer allows guests to experience Discovery Samal’s signature hospitality in a setting defined by calm shores and open spaces.

Where the Weekend Slows Down

The Island Escape offer centers on a comfortable stay in Discovery Samal’s well-appointed suites and villas, designed to complement the natural surroundings of Samal Island. Each stay encourages guests to ease into the day, wake up to coastal views, and enjoy the resort at a measured pace, making it an ideal choice for long weekends meant for rest rather than rush. 

For those seeking light indulgence, a 10 percent discount on spa treatments at Samal Escape Spa opens the door to restorative experiences such as signature hilot massages rooted in Filipino healing traditions, tension-releasing Swedish and deep tissue therapies, and calming body rituals to ease the body into stillness.

Surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle waters of the Davao Gulf, the resort creates an environment where guests can step away from routine and settle into island living, even within the span of a few days. 

Flavors That Complete the Escape

Long weekend stays at Discovery Samal are paired with dining experiences that bring warmth and familiarity to each visit. Within the Island Escape offer, guests enjoy a welcome drink upon arrival and access to culinary outlets with a 10 percent discount on food and beverage.  

Breakfast unfolds at Shoreline with comforting morning favorites and all-day classics, followed by leisurely afternoons at Morning Catch, where freshly caught seafood and island-inspired dishes take center stage. As the day winds down, Haribar Lounge offers a relaxed setting for signature cocktails and light bites by the sea, while The Bistro offers an intimate dining experience with thoughtfully prepared specialties for unhurried nights.

Framed by the resort’s easy pace and coastal setting, dining experiences become part of the stay, inviting guests to linger without rush and enjoy the calm of island living.

An Island Escape for Every Kind of Holiday

With long weekends appearing across different months in 2026, the Island Escape offer suits a range of travelers, from families planning shared time away to couples seeking intimate breaks and small groups looking for an easy island retreat. As travelers look ahead to the year’s extended weekends, Discovery Samal offers a reason to mark dates early and return to Samal Island whenever time allows.

The Island Escape offer is available at rates starting at Php 30,000 net per room with a minimum two-night stay, inclusive of daily breakfast for two, welcome drinks upon arrival, round-trip land transfers from Davao International Airport, and round-trip boat transfers from the Davao Welcome Center, along with resort access and select dining and spa privileges. More information is available at www.discoverysamal.com/offers/island-escape. For inquiries and reservations, email reservations@discoverysamal.com or call +63 84 308 2998.

TIEZA and GCash Partner to Streamline Online Travel Tax Refunds for Filipino Travelers

 

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has formally partnered with G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), the mobile wallet operator behind GCash, to significantly enhance the speed, security, and convenience of online travel tax refunds for Filipino travelers.

 

Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in Makati City, TIEZA will now adopt the GCash Funds Disbursement Service (FDS) to facilitate the real-time crediting of approved travel tax refunds directly into the GCash wallets of eligible passengers.

 

This modernization initiative aligns with Executive Order No. 170, which mandates the adoption of digital payment systems across government, and Republic Act No. 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), which empowers TIEZA to institute systems and partnerships that ensure the efficient administration of travel tax collection and refund services.

 

Making digital refunds seamless for Filipino travelers

 

Through the integration of the secure disbursement technology of GCash, passengers approved for refunds will now receive their travel tax reimbursements instantly and seamlessly, eliminating the need for on-site claims or manual bank processing. Notably, the service is offered at no cost to both TIEZA and its clients.

 

“This partnership underscores our commitment to building tourism together by elevating the quality and efficiency of every touchpoint in the Filipino travel experience,” said TIEZA chief operating officer Mark Lapid. “By integrating sophisticated digital solutions like GCash, we are not simply streamlining the refund process—we are advancing transparency, reinforcing institutional accountability, and setting a higher benchmark for how government and industry can collaborate to meet the expectations of today’s discerning travelers.”

 

A collaboration for seamless, digital-first government services

 

Under the partnership, G-Xchange, Inc. will provide the secure digital infrastructure that enables real-time disbursement, supported by robust prefunding and reconciliation mechanisms to safeguard the integrity of public funds.

 

Cleo Celeste C. Santos, vice president and head of GCash public sector, emphasized the value of accessible and efficient financial services and the partnership’s impact on public sector digital transformation. “We are proud to support TIEZA in digitizing one of the most important touchpoints for travelers. Real-time refunds through GCash deliver unmatched convenience, speed, and reliability—empowering passengers with a truly modern and frictionless experience.”

 

“This collaboration reinforces the mission of GCash to make digital financial services easily accessible for every Filipino. By embedding secure, seamless payouts into TIEZA’s processes, we are helping advance a more inclusive, responsive, and future-ready government service ecosystem,” Santos added.

 

---

 

A more convenient, future-ready refund system

 

As global and domestic travel continue to rise, the TIEZA–GCash partnership ensures that public-facing services evolve in step with traveler expectations—reflecting a shared commitment to innovation, efficiency, and good governance in the delivery of essential tourism services.

 

For more information, visit [https://tieza.gov.ph] and follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X.

 

Sun Life Lights Up Boracay with Brighter Holidays

MANILA, PH – December 2025 – Sun Life Philippines has officially ushered in the festive season with its Brighter Holidays campaign, turning Boracay Island into a radiant holiday destination. The celebration began with a tree lighting ceremony that illuminated Laketown with a dazzling Christmas tree.

 

As part of the activation, Sun Life-branded paraws cruise along the Boracay coastline, while on land, Sun Life’s parols that symbolize hope and togetherness can be found all over the island. These activities showcase Sun Life’s dedication to sparking hope and fresh beginnings, empowering every Filipino to embrace the season as they pursue brighter financial and health goals for the future.

 

To make the holidays brighter for more Filipinos, Sun Life has partnered with the NVC Foundation to support its Mingo Meals Nutrition Program, with Sun Life advisors pledging their commitment to this meaningful cause. This will provide a month’s worth of nutritious meals to undernourished children from the Ati Community in Boracay.

 

The festivities will culminate on December 31 with Boracay's official New Year’s Eve Countdown at Station 2 Beachfront, Boracay. Guests can enjoy live music, raffle prizes, and more activities starting at 10:00PM. Everyone is invited to join this unforgettable celebration and welcome 2026 under the stars.

 

Bringing more excitement to the celebration, Sun Life is inviting guests to spot its Christmas tree, paraws, and parols, and join the #SunLifeBrighterHolidays social media promo. Just post a photo or reel on Facebook or TikTok, tag @sunlifeph, use the hashtag #SunLifeBrighterHolidays, and make the post public for a chance to win VIP tickets to BAGETS: The Musical, a Garmin smart watch, or e-gift certificates. The promo runs until January 4, 2026, and winners will be selected via raffle draw.

 

“Boracay is a beloved destination for Filipinos and visitors alike, and we’re excited to bring the joyous spirit of the holidays to the island,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “As we celebrate Brighter Holidays in Boracay, we reaffirm Sun Life’s promise to help Filipinos build a brighter future.”

 

Brighter Holidays reflects Sun Life’s dedication to creating meaningful experiences and fostering hope for a brighter tomorrow for every Filipino.

 

To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

TIEZA’s 16-Year Legacy of Transforming the Travel Tax Into Tourism Development

18 November 2025, Pasay City, Philippines — Since its establishment in 2009, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has emerged as a key driver of tourism-led growth, harnessing the power of the Philippine Travel Tax to fund sustainable infrastructure, attract private investments, and uplift local communities across the country.

Over the past 16 years, TIEZA has redefined how tourism development contributes to nation-building and how every traveler’s contribution can transform into lasting impact through projects that enhance accessibility, preserve heritage, and promote inclusive growth.

Building the Foundations of Tourism

Between 2021 and 2025, TIEZA implemented over 200 tourism infrastructure projects nationwide, improving access, safety, and sustainability in key and emerging destinations. Among its flagship accomplishments is the rollout of 34 Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) across major travel corridors  — modern facilities designed to enhance traveler comfort through clean restrooms, tourism information centers, and spaces that promote local products. This initiative earned international recognition as the TRAs were named “Infrastructure Project of the Year (Tourism Category)” at the GovMedia Awards 2024 in Singapore.

TIEZA also spearheaded the rehabilitation of heritage and flagship tourism assets, including the Banaue Hotel and Youth Hostel in Ifugao, Mount Data Hotel in the Cordilleras, and the Gat Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-Tourism Park in Cavite. It likewise preserved historical landmarks such as the Malinta Tunnel in Corregidor and Escuela Pia in Batangas, supporting the growth of cultural and educational tourism.

“Our role as the builder of tourism infrastructure goes beyond construction, enhancement, and rehabilitation. It’s about connection. Every facility we build connects travelers to destinations and communities to new opportunities,” said TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid.

Driving Investments and Sustainability

TIEZA continues to strengthen the tourism economy by developing Tourism Enterprise Zones (TEZs)  — strategic areas that offer fiscal incentives to tourism-related enterprises. These incentives include Income Tax Holidays, Gross Income Tax in lieu of national taxes, and VAT and duty exemptions, which create a business-friendly environment that encourages both domestic and foreign investments.

Flagship TEZs in San Vicente (Palawan), Panglao Bay Premiere (Bohol), Rizal Park (Manila), and Corregidor Island (Cavite) are now emerging as sustainable, world-class tourism hubs designed to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

In 2024, TIEZA also signed a landmark Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Premier Islands Management Corporation (PIMC) for the management of the Aquilino Q. Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center (APICC)  — a model of efficiency and innovation in government asset management.

That same year, TIEZA’s partnerships generated ₱104 million in revenue, marking a 14.29% year-on-year increase from ₱91 million in 2023. These earnings are reinvested into infrastructure development and community livelihood programs, ensuring that tourism growth remains inclusive and sustainable.

Tourism Assets That Thrive

TIEZA’s own tourism assets have shown exceptional growth, proving the agency’s effective management approach. In 2024, the Club Intramuros Golf Course in Manila generated ₱79.3 million in gross revenue, which marked a 2.98% increase from its ₱76.9 million revenue in 2023, a steady increase since the pandemic.

As one of the oldest golf courses in the country, it stands out as one of the most successful and enduring government assets under the management of TIEZA. Its status as a thriving tourism asset is deeply grounded not only in its operational strengths but also in its cultural value, accessibility, and its contribution to Manila’s tourism and economic growth.

Other flagship assets including the Zamboanga Golf Course and Beach Park in Zamboanga City and Mount Data Hotel in Bauko, Mountain Province have consistently seen significant performance improvements in recent years driven by upgraded facilities, sustainability measures, and stronger local partnerships.

Recognitions and Reforms in Public Service

TIEZA’s institutional reforms have been recognized nationally and internationally. In 2024, the agency received the Civil Service Commission’s Bronze Award (Level 2 PRIME-HRM) for organizational excellence and achieved ISO 9001:2015 recertification, reinforcing its culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.

That same year, TIEZA co-presented the Philippine Tourism and Hotel Investment Summit 2024, which convened over 200 business and industry leaders to strengthen the country’s tourism investment ecosystem through infrastructure innovation and policy alignment.

A Vision for the Next Decade

Looking ahead to its 20th year and the implementation of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028, TIEZA is set to expand its portfolio of sustainable tourism projects, modernize travel facilities, and deepen collaboration with the private sector.

“Our story is one of service and sustainability,” Lapid said. “The goal is not just to welcome more tourists, but to ensure that every destination we develop empowers the Filipino communities behind them.”

By turning the Philippine Travel Tax into a force for national development, TIEZA continues to deliver on its mission of Building Tourism Together.

For more information, visit https://tieza.gov.ph or follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X for updates on TIEZA’s services and digital initiatives.