2GO Group Recognized by Unilever Philippines for Integrated Transport Solutions and Transport Partnership

MANILA, Philippines, 30 March 2026 — 2GO, the country’s leading logistics solutions provider, received the Excellence in Integrated Transport Solutions Award and the Transport Partner of the Year Award from Unilever Philippines in recognition of its strong logistics capabilities and transport support throughout 2025.

 

The Excellence in Integrated Transport Solutions Award recognizes partners that demonstrate superior multimodal logistics capability through seamless coordination across land, sea, and other transportation modes. The recognition highlights innovative and integrated solutions that strengthen Unilever Philippines’ supply chain resilience and agility.

 

Meanwhile, the Transport Partner of the Year Award is given to logistics partners that deliver exceptional performance through consistent operational excellence, reliability, responsiveness, and strong collaboration in supporting Unilever’s nationwide supply chain operations.

 

“Our role goes beyond transportation. We ensure products move seamlessly across the country through coordinated, end-to-end logistics solutions,” said Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding. “This recognition from Unilever Philippines reflects the scale of our operations and the discipline of our teams who work every day to deliver reliably across their nationwide network.”

Supporting this integrated logistics capability is 2GO’s sea freight network, which enables reliable inter-island cargo movement across the archipelago.

 

“Our sea freight operations are built around reliability, scale, and coordination across ports and logistics hubs nationwide,” said Sharon Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions. “Every shipment we move supports the steady flow of goods across the country. Our teams work every day to ensure cargo moves efficiently across islands and reaches businesses and communities that depend on it.”

 

As one of the country’s leading fast-moving consumer goods companies, Unilever Philippines relies on a strong and dependable logistics network to move products efficiently across markets nationwide. The recognition underscores the trust placed in 2GO to support the movement of essential goods across the country.

 

The awards reinforce 2GO Group’s role as a trusted logistics partner for leading companies in the Philippines. Through integrated solutions across land and sea, 2GO continues to help businesses move goods efficiently and strengthen supply chains across the country.

 

To learn more about 2GO and its integrated logistics solutions, visit 2go.com.ph.

2GO Opens New NAIA Road Store Ahead of the Holiday Travel and Shipping Rush

MANILA, Philippines, 22 October 2025 – 2GO, the Philippines’ leading logistics and travel solutions provider, has opened a new store along NAIA Road to serve travelers, senders, and nearby businesses with greater convenience.

 

Located at the CAEMC Commercial Building near Park and Fly, the 2GO NAIA Road Store offers a full range of retail logistics services, including parcel and document express delivery, extra baggage and cargo shipping within the Philippines or abroad, as well as 2GO Travel booking and ticket purchases.

 

“We’re thrilled to bring 2GO closer to our customers who are always on the go,” said Blessie Cruz, Vice President and Business Unit Head for 2GO Retail. “This new location makes it easier for travelers and residents to access our shipping and travel services right before heading to the airport.”

 

To mark the opening, 2GO is offering 10% off on all domestic and international shipments until October 31, 2025.

 

As the holiday season approaches, 2GO has expanded its store network and optimized its air, land, and sea logistics to meet the expected surge in travel and delivery demand.

 

“Every Christmas season, our goal is to keep families connected and businesses moving,” added Cruz. “Whether you’re sending gifts, shipping goods, or traveling to your favorite destinations like the newly-launched Manila-Siargao weekly services, 2GO is ready to deliver care and convenience.”

 

Customers can visit the new store by searching CAEMC Commercial Bldg., NAIA Road (near Park and Fly) on navigation apps.

 

For updates and promotions, follow facebook.com/2GOExpressInc.

The Manila Hotel Named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards for the Second Consecutive Year

The Manila Hotel once again earns international recognition as it is named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel 2025 at the 32nd World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held on October 13, 2025, at the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong.

Following its 2024 win, this consecutive victory reaffirms The Manila Hotel’s enduring excellence and its stature as the country’s premier luxury landmark. The World Travel Awards—often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry”—honor organizations that set new standards of excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality worldwide.

Accepting the award was Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., President of The Manila Hotel, who expressed deep gratitude for the international recognition.

“To be named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel once is already a distinct honor, but to receive this award for the second consecutive year is truly humbling,” said Atty. Lina. “This recognition belongs to our people—the heart and soul of The Manila Hotel—whose passion and dedication continue to define Filipino hospitality at its finest. For 113 years, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of heritage and excellence, and this honor further inspires us to uphold that legacy as we continue to elevate the experience of our guests.”

A Legacy That Looks Ahead

With this back-to-back win, The Manila Hotel further cements its place as a national icon of heritage and prestige. As it continues to evolve, the hotel remains committed to enhancing every guest experience. Rooted in history, thriving in the present, and focused on the future, The Manila Hotel stands as a living symbol of Filipino pride.

The Manila Hotel Receives Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the 1st Philippine Tourism Awards

The Manila Hotel has been honored with the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the first-ever Philippine Tourism Awards, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. The recognition highlights outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, with a focus on excellence, sustainability, and innovation.

A landmark in Philippine history, The Manila Hotel was cited for its enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. The accolade underscores the hotel’s commitment to preserving its storied heritage while evolving to meet the needs of the modern traveler.

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that we accept this award from the Department of Tourism,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “This recognition reaffirms our belief that true hospitality lies in creating unforgettable experiences, from a warm welcome at the door, to impeccable service at every touchpoint, to the genuine attention extended to every guest. This award belongs not only to The Manila Hotel, but to the legacy of Filipino hospitality we strive to share with the world.”

The Philippine Tourism Awards—the first of its kind—aim to honor institutions and individuals that elevate Philippine tourism on the global stage. This platform paid tribute to enterprises that laid the foundations of Philippine tourism—pioneers and establishments that have significantly contributed to the industry’s growth over the years.

For The Manila Hotel, the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award stands as both a celebration of its rich heritage and a testament to its unwavering commitment to service excellence. For over a century, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of Filipino pride, service, and hospitality. Today, it continues to uphold its legacy as the true heart of the Philippines. 

Alipay+ and Grab Make Ride Hailing Services Available to Global Digital Wallet Users via Alipay+ Voyager

SINGAPORE, 15 September 2025 – Alipay+, Ant International’s global wallet gateway, and Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, have announced the integration of Grab’s ride-hailing services into Alipay+ Voyager, its inbuilt end-to-end AI travel agent. This will make local transportation services in Southeast Asia more accessible for users of Alipay+ Voyager, who can now book rides directly from within their digital wallets. Through this integration, Alipay+ and Grab are further deepening their partnership, which began in 2023 by allowing consumers to use their home e-wallets to make payments on the Grab app. Now, users can book Grab’s ride-hailing services directly from within the same e-wallet, without needing to download an additional app.

Launched in mid-2025, Alipay+ Voyager is currently available in Alipay (Chinese mainland), AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR, China) and GCash (the Philippines), and will roll out to more partners throughout the year. Users travelling to all eight Southeast Asian destinations where Grab is available – Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar – can simply access Grab directly within Alipay+ Voyager. This integration removes friction in the customer journey by allowing users to access ride-hailing services seamlessly within an ecosystem they already know and trust, for a fuss-free travel experience in Southeast Asia. 

“With Southeast Asia growing in popularity as a travel destination, making Grab’s services directly available within Alipay+ partner apps offers users the most comprehensive and trusted local transportation across the region,” said Scarlett Xing, General Manager of Alipay+ Travel Solutions, Ant International. “Alipay+ Voyager will continue to expand our ecosystem, particularly across essential travel services, to connect more partners with mobile-savvy travellers, while we collaborate to create new ways of engagement across the entire travel journey.”

“We’re thrilled to strengthen our partnership with Alipay+ Voyager to deliver safe and reliable ride-hailing services for more travellers visiting Southeast Asia. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to enhancing the travel experience and providing greater convenience for millions of users,” said Samir Kumar, Head of Mobility at Grab.

Alipay+ connects 36 leading payment partner apps with more than 1.7 billion user accounts to over 100 million in-store merchants in 70 markets. Complementing its cross-border payment capabilities, Alipay+ is developing digital services for its partners, including rewards, in-app tax refunds and Alipay+ Voyager.

CITEM Market Sensing Mission to Taiwan to Strengthen PH SDG Competency

Building a more inclusive and resilient future for the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is embarking on a strategic market sensing mission to Taiwan. Attending SDG Asia 2025 from September 11-13, 2025 at the Taipei World Trade Center, the CITEM-led delegation will gather crucial insights on the latest business models, innovations, and technologies in food systems, smart cities, and the circular economy. 

This mission aims to position Filipino enterprises as key players in the global sustainability landscape, fostering new partnerships, and identifying export growth opportunities that advance the nation's sustainability agenda. This strategic visit reinforces the Philippines' commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN). All these reflect CITEM's mandate to promote Philippine products and services in the global market, with a special focus on sustainable and innovative sectors. 

Taiwan, as a leading proponent of sustainability, consistently demonstrates its expertise in renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, and waste management. It has also actively shared its knowledge and technology in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation. Taiwan is actively working toward achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2050 as part of its contribution to curbing global climate change.  

The delegation is composed of 11 enablers and sustainability advocates from local governments, agencies, and companies in green technology. Their advocacies are anchored on key concepts interrelated to sustainable development, such as economic stability, environmental impact, good governance, and societal health. For instance, the Municipality of Buguey in Cagayan spearheads climate-resilient, eco-friendly practices for farmers and fisherfolk toward sustainable product development and food security. For DTI Region I, which covers Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan, it enhances the region’s competitiveness through global green design and safety standards in product development, logistics efficiency, and responsible consumerism. Another participant, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp., focuses on creating products that address nutritional health amidst poverty, calamities, and overall well-being. Meanwhile, the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office champions inclusivity of micro and small enterprises and cooperatives through capacity-building, financing, and mentorship programs.

The rest of the delegation are representing the following offices: DTI-CARAGA, DTI-Ilocos Norte, and DTI-Pangasinan. 

The diverse roster follows a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to exploring sustainable solutions and fostering international collaboration. In cooperation with Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei, the visiting team will also participate in facility visits during the mission.

The country’s sustainability efforts are guided by the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) 2024-2028, a joint strategic planning framework for partnership between the Philippines and the UN. This CF aligns with the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

This year’s market sensing mission also serves as a platform to promote next year’s Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Conference and Exhibition to be held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City, Philippines that is concurrent with the 19th edition of IFEX Philippines on May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

The SSX is one of CITEM’s signature programs that is the country’s first platform promoting sustainable practices, resources, and technology to the world’s essential industries. SSX creates avenues for Philippine MSMEs and other businesses to continue or transition toward a circular economy.

OPPO, Discovery, and the Department of Tourism Present a Short Film on the T’boli of Lake Sebu

OPPO and Discovery collaborated with the Department of Tourism to showcase the Tboli community in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, captured on the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G.

The film is part of Discovery’s Culture in a Shot program under the 2025 theme Celebrate the Moment. After features in 15 countries and regions, the project turns its attention to the Philippines with a concise, respectful portrayal of T'boli creativity and daily life. This collaboration marks an initial step in telling more stories from local communities.

The partnership aims to capture and preserve living cultural practices of the Tboli. Blending innovation with advocacy, OPPO joins the effort by leveraging the Reno14 Series 5G’s camera system and AI imaging to document the T'boli's cultural legacy in striking, true-to-life detail.

“At OPPO, we believe technology should go beyond convenience. It should empower communities and preserve heritage. This partnership with Discovery and the Department of Tourism allows us to do just that,” said Joanarc Sales, Associate Marketing Director of OPPO Philippines.

Production was coordinated with DOT Region XII and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. Activities were conducted with guidance and free, prior, and informed consent from Tboli elders to ensure accuracy and respect.

These innovations help preserve the details that define T'boli artistry. More than showcasing technology, this initiative reflects OPPO’s commitment to purposeful innovation, cultural heritage support, and community upliftment, ensuring the traditions of the T'boli are celebrated and remembered.

From the sacred art of T’nalak weaving, guided by the spirit of Fu Dalu, to the symbolic brasswork of Sesotunawa, each story reflects the Tboli’s enduring creativity, resilience, and pride. Through this collaboration, OPPO and Discovery invite Filipinos to rediscover and celebrate Indigenous heritage, beginning with the Tboli of Lake Sebu. The OPPO Reno14 Series 5G was used on location for ultra-clear low-light footage, steady handheld recording, and color-faithful imaging, helping preserve texture and detail without heavy equipment.

The short film will run on the 3D billboard at One Bonifacio High Street. Viewers can experience the piece in large format and learn more about the makers and their craft.

Make Your Moment and Win an OPPO Reno14 F 5G

Visit the 3D billboard at One Bonifacio High Street. Take a creative photo with the feature. Post publicly on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok using the hashtags #OPPOLovesThePhilippines #OPPOReno14Series5G #MakeYourMoment #OPPOxDiscovery #OPPOCultureChallenge. Check OPPO Philippines on Facebook for full mechanics. One winner will receive a Glossy Pink OPPO Reno14 F 5G.

Let Your Hometown Shine

Share photos or videos that show the culture, places, and people of your hometown using the same hashtags. These posts can help identify communities for possible future features with OPPO, Discovery, and the Department of Tourism.

For updates on the collaboration, visit www.oppo.com/ph/ or follow OPPO Philippines on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Banwa Private Island – Multi-Award-Winning Experience Receives Latest International Recognition

Manila, Philippines (15 August 2025) – Banwa Private Island, the ultra-exclusive private island in Palawan, Philippines, continues to solidify its standing among the world’s most exceptional destinations with its third consecutive inclusion in Robb Report’s 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth for 2025.

Robb Report’s 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth, established in 2023, celebrates the pinnacle of global hospitality. Published by Robb Report, a leading authority on luxury lifestyle since 1976, the list is meticulously curated by 26 Travel Masters—globally respected luxury travel specialists renowned for crafting extraordinary journeys for an elite international clientele. Each expert nominates their top five exceptional properties, encompassing both new openings and timeless icons across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Among them is Henry Cookson, founder of Cookson Adventures, who lauded Banwa Private Island for its extraordinary marine setting and ecological significance:

"This is one of the world’s most exclusive private islands. It’s set in a marine-protected sanctuary, and we love it for its incredible diving—it’s possible to scuba alongside whale sharks as well as encounter the rare Hawksbill turtle and black tip reef shark."

This latest recognition adds to Banwa Private Island’s growing list of international accolades, including the Editor’s Choice Award in The Gallivanter’s Guide 2024; being named “Private Island of the Year” by Destination Deluxe for three non-consecutive years (2020, 2022, and 2023); “Best Beach, Island or Upcountry Resort in the Philippines” by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific in 2023;  “Best of the Best in Travel” by Robb Report Hong Kong in 2024; and “World’s Leading Luxury Private Island” by the World Travel Awards in 2019.

Banwa Private Island has become a preferred retreat for celebrities, heads of state, and private families seeking more than just privacy. With only six contemporary beachfront villas—each with expansive interiors, private terraces and gardens, a jacuzzi, and a full-sized spring water pool—Banwa Private Island offers an experience defined by space, serenity, and sustainability. Among the largest and most luxurious in the world, the villas provide rare comfort and complete seclusion, with discreet service staff available at a moment’s notice but never in view. Whether reserved individually or through a full island charter, each stay is designed to feel effortless, private, and deeply personalized.

Located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, Banwa Private Island is surrounded by one of the Philippines’ most biodiverse marine corridors. Each guest stay contributes to vital conservation efforts through the Aquos Foundation, which supports habitat protection and scientific research—including in one of the country’s 10 Important Sharks and Rays Areas (ISRAs). Endangered species such as the Hawksbill turtle, blacktip reef shark, and whale shark thrive in these protected waters.

Sustainability is woven into daily island life. Banwa Private Island operates its own organic farm that supplies fresh produce to its kitchens. A self-replenishing artesian well provides natural water for drinking, bathing, and pools. The island is also uniquely mosquito-free, maintained through an entomologist-designed trapping system that eliminates the need for chemical sprays while safeguarding the delicate ecosystem.

Dining at Banwa Private Island is entirely bespoke—there are no menus to browse, no decisions to make. Each meal is thoughtfully crafted by the island’s chef, who takes time to understand every guest’s preferences and dietary needs. Using the freshest ingredients from Banwa Private Island’s organic farm and surrounding seas, the chef designs personalized menus that surprise and delight. Meals are served in stunning locations chosen to suit the moment—whether it’s a romantic dinner at Bantigue sandbar, sunset dining at the Platform, or an alfresco lunch by the pool.

Guests enjoy a seamless, all-inclusive island journey that extends to curated excursions, wellness treatments, and private aviation coordination. From snorkeling the vibrant house reef to exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites like Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, each itinerary is crafted to inspire discovery and connection with nature.

As The Gallivanter’s Guide noted in its 2024 review: “The meticulous attention to detail is what makes Banwa Private Island truly special. The presence of vibrant flower bouquets that are refreshed every other day, the discreet room servicing during breakfast times, and the continuous replenishment of ice buckets and welcome treats—all without having to reach for the phone.”

“Today’s luxury traveler seeks more than privacy—they seek purpose,” said Simon Turner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Banwa Private Island. “Banwa Private Island delivers that rare combination of meaningful travel, uncompromising comfort, and untouched natural beauty.”

Villa rates begin at USD 3,050 per night, with a two-night minimum stay. Full island buyouts are available upon request.

For more information, visit www.banwaprivateisland.com

Experience Lanson Living: Extended Stays at Lanson Place Mall of Asia

Manila, Philippines — Nestled in the heart of Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila promises an extended stay experience like no other. With a focus on personalised hospitality and thoughtful amenities, Lanson Place provides guests with an unforgettable journey of discovery and relaxation, Going the extra mile with a host of benefits, including welcome amenities, daily breakfast buffets, high-speed internet, and discounts on food and beverages. Additionally, guests enjoy access to the Residents' Lounge, where they can engage in curated activities like herb planting yoga sessions and more.

2BR Serviced Residence Dining and Living Areas

Extended Stay Experience

Situated at the Bay Wing of Lanson Place, from a selection of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom serviced residences, guests can indulge in stunning views of Manila Bay. These accommodations come with thoughtful features like kitchenette facilities in studios and washer/dryer units for the larger serviced residences.

Meanwhile, the Residents' Lounge provides a tranquil space for long-staying guests to unwind, featuring a minimalist nature-inspired colour scheme and window seating with views of the Galleon. Relax and socialise in our stylish lounge, featuring comfortable seating areas and scheduled events for guests to enjoy.

“Exclusive access to the Residents' Lounge is a key feature of our approach. This lounge is designed to foster a sense of community and well-being. To cater to varying interests, we organise exclusive curated activities every quarter. These activities include unique experiences such as herb planting, painting sessions, aqua Zumba, and sunrise yoga to name a few. We believe that providing a range of engaging activities contributes to a more enriching and personalised stay for our guests.

At Lanson Place, our commitment is to create an environment where each long-staying guest feels not only comfortable but also inspired, ensuring a truly memorable and tailored experience during their time with us” said Antonette Mitschiener, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Cyan Modern Kitchen

Dining Options

Lanson Place, Manila offers an array of dining options for all guests. In Cyan Modern Kitchen, guests embark on a culinary journey that pays homage to Filipino delicacies, featuring both buffet and a la carte menus. 

From classic  Hong Kong-inspired noodle soup made with locally sourced ingredients to enticing Indian and Spanish-influenced dishes, every dish is thoughtfully curated to cater to a diverse clientele. With floor-to-ceiling windows providing front-row seats to Manila Bay's magnificent sunset, Cyan Modern Kitchen offers a dining experience unlike any other.

BLK 12 Café|Bar

Lanson Place’s Madeleine High Tea also offers guests a cosy high tea lounge experience, complete with tiered high-tea menus featuring locally sourced tea selections from Agusan del Norte, while the BLK12 Café|Bar provides a versatile space for guests to relax and unwind, offering perfectly brewed coffee made with premium beans sourced from local and international growers. For business travellers on the go, Bytes’ grab-and-go counter offers freshly prepared meals made from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a healthy and convenient dining option.

Long-staying guests receive a 20% discount on food and beverage outlets.

Edge Pool Bar

Property Amenities

For relaxation and leisure, the Edge Pool Bar offers a serene escape while sipping on refreshments with its 180-degree scenic view of Manila Bay and the Metro skyline. Indulging in a leisurely swim in Lanson Place's infinity pool provides a holistic experience, seamlessly blending scenic beauty, tranquillity and relief from the hustle and bustle of the city, contributing to the enjoyment during your stay.

Stay invigorated with modern fitness equipment and personalised workout programs, provided alongside a well-equipped gym and spacious yoga studio on the building's top floor, offering a picturesque backdrop for both fitness activities and lifestyle classes.

Residents’ Lounge

Enhance your productivity at the Co-working Space, providing access to high-speed internet for work or school. Guests staying in-house for short or extended periods enjoy complimentary usage each week.

To further enrich guest experiences, Lanson Place collaborates with third-party businesses and organizations. Partnerships with Online Travel Agencies and local tourism initiatives underscore the brand's commitment to promoting tourism and supporting the community.

For more information about Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s upcoming events, and other offerings, visit the official website at www.lansonplace.com/mallofasia or follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram). 

Banwa Private Island : A Journey of Discovery and Adventure

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – 05th February 2024 - This week, over 200 guests from the Philippines, Hong Kong and beyond were treated to a preview of a movie documentary, “Banwa Private Island – A Two Part Adventure,” filmed on location and produced by Asian Air Safari.

Banwa Private Island is the gateway to the incredibly rich and diverse marine and land ecology in Palawan. ‘Banwa' actually means ‘community' in the local Palawano language and the Tagbanwa people are considered guardians of the region's indigenous nature. Proceeds from the island directly contribute to educational and infrastructure projects in the area through its Aquos Foundation whose ethos is to support, nurture and protect the island’s unique biodiversity.

The documentary highlights how guests are coming from around the world to explore the culture, history and ecology of this unique region. A truly private island with just 6 beautiful villas, guests enjoy un-paralleled hospitality from the Banwa Private Island team whilst being entranced by the nature, wildlife, beaches and stunning turquoise water in this mosquito free environment. Within just a 20-minute radius, there are an array of activities including snorkeling, diving, hiking, an underground river, waterfalls and unique wildlife indigenous to the area.

The documentary was produced by the enigmatic and humbling Captain Joy Roa, CEO of Asian Air Safari, who commented: “I was given a beautiful opportunity to visit this incredible island with its rich bio-diversity, right in our own backyard in the Philippines. Flying with the helicopter for only two hours from Manila allowed me to see this private world – a distinctive combination of luxurious pampering and hospitality, wildlife encounters, and authentic, meaningful interactions with the local community. Experiencing it all first-hand makes me proud that an award-winning, world-class property like Banwa Private Island can be found in the Philippines, because it defines what positive, impactful travel should be.”

Banwa Private Island is the vision of Richard Beattie who has been exploring the region for over 20 years and cannot escape the charm and lure of these islands. Richard commented, “We are so grateful to Captain Joy and his brilliant team for this incredible documentary. It enables people to have an insight into the sounds, smells, culture and scenery of this almost unknown region and Captain Joy immersed himself into every aspect of what the region offers. His generosity is unbounded, and he appears to have found quite a few future pilots for his team from the eager local school children!”

The screening was attended by an international audience made up of past island guests, those planning to visit in the future and the best of the luxury travel trade who have already booked guest visits to the island from far-away places such as Brazil, China and Europe – and perhaps surprisingly many from Manila who were previously unaware of the adventure that awaits them in Palawan.

The two-part documentary will be available for public viewing in March and a wonderful preview is available via this link.

Swiss International Air Lines Launches Direct Services from Seoul to Zurich

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will be further expanding its services in the 2024 summer schedule with the addition of Seoul to its long-haul network in Asia. Alongside the already announced new intercontinental destinations of Washington, DC and Toronto, Canada in the West, SWISS will also be enlarging its long-haul network in the East by connecting the South Korean capital of Seoul with Zurich, Switzerland.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, will receive its first-ever SWISS services in summer 2024. This metropolis offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and contemporary flair and delights visitors with sights like the Gyeongbokgung Palace and futuristic landmarks such as the N Seoul Tower. Similarly, Switzerland offers a mix of natural beauty and modernity with its majestic Alpine landscapes, including the Matterhorn and Jungfrau peaks, as well as the vibrant economic and cultural entre of Zurich.

“We are delighted to be further growing our network,” says SWISS Chief Commercial Officer Heike Birlenbach. “As well as our new long-haul destinations of Washington, DC and Toronto, which we’ve already announced, we’ll be adding the extremely attractive destination of Seoul to our Asian network in summer 2024. The capital of South Korea has a lot to offer leisure and business travellers alike. And our new Seoul service will help us even better meet our customers’ needs for non-stop services to and from the world’s key cities.”

According to Leo Tonidandel, General Manager Korea, Lufthansa Group Airlines: “We are excited to launch Seoul as the first new destination in Asia for SWISS in 2024. As a premium carrier, SWISS will offer four cabins including First Class and Premium Economy Class and provide Korean passengers with more choices when traveling to Europe with direct flights from Seoul/Incheon to Zurich and beyond with connections in Zurich. In addition, SWISS, as a member of Lufthansa Group Airlines, Korean customers enjoy combined services with Lufthansa, the same mileage program and various benefits.”.

SWISS will commence its thrice-weekly non-stop service between Zurich and Seoul on 7 May 2024. The flights will be operated with Airbus A340 equipped with First, Business, Premium Economy and Economy Class. The eastbound flight LX122 will leave Zurich at 13:40 on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, landing in Seoul at 08:25 the following day The westbound LX123 service will depart from Seoul on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 09:55, arriving in Zurich at 16:50.

Health & Wellness Confex 2024 Opening Day Highlights Gov’t, Private Sector Collaboration

The Health & Wellness Confex 2024 opened yesterday, Jan. 26, at the SMX Center in Pasay City, with resounding success. The event, a three-day gathering of health and tourism industry stakeholders that will run until Sunday, Jan. 28, was kicked off by such luminaries as Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr., Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, and Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano.

In his keynote address, Herbosa said supporting wellness tourism is now a priority for the DOH. This was confirmed by Dr. Maria Francia Miciano-Laxamana, DOH undersecretary for medical tourism, who pointed out in her presentation that ensuring the safety and health of tourists is a major department objective. 

Meanwhile, Abalos emphasized the importance of being healthy and leading a healthy lifestyle. He talked about his mother’s passing due to the coronavirus back in 2022. While it was a tragedy, he said it also marked the beginning of his health and wellness journey. “While at the hospital, I had nothing to do. Everyone was wearing masks and PPEs (personal protective equipment). I was the only one in shorts and I had to sign a waiver because I insisted on staying with my mother at the ICU,” he narrated. “I couldn’t do much so I did push-ups. After only three push-ups, my hands were shaking. But I forced myself to continue, and you know what? Today, I’m doing 139 push-ups every day.” 

“I’ve also been running every week and I spend one hour in the gym every day,” he added. “Health and wellness are all about attitude and it should be a priority for everyone regardless of age,” he said.

Calixto-Rubiano echoed the importance of having the right mentality towards health and wellness. She also talked about the various health and wellness programs of the Pasay City government, including the empowering mothers and infants or EMI project. “We are aligned with the First 1,000 Days program, a public health initiative that aims to provide comprehensive health and nutrition support during the first 1000 days of a child's life,” she said.

In addition, the city implements feeding programs, conducts free medical tests, and extends support for COVID-19 patients.

The first day's list of speakers also included Wanda Teo, former DOT secretary, and  Cynthia Lagdameo Carrion, Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) general manager and CEO. Every speaker focused on their unique perspectives, but all of them emphasized the need to integrate health and wellness into the tourism industry.

The messages particularly cited the huge boost the recent collaborative efforts between the DOT and DOH would give to the campaign to promote the Philippines as a prime health and wellness tourist destination.

Another highlight of the first day of the Health and Wellness Confex 2024 conference was a roundtable discussion about the Filipino brand of wellness. The discussion was moderated by Catherine Turvill, Wellness Nurture Village founder and president. The panel was made up of Jennifer Sanvictores, The Farm at San Benito global head of sales and marketing communications, Vikki C. Aquino, Okada Manila director of The Retreat Spa, Kenneth Trullench, Las Caidas Wellness Resort Wellness Resort manager, and Atho De La Cruz, Ilaya Retreat Spa at Damires Hills Farm and Spa Resort Spa and Wellness director. 

The Health & Wellness Confex 2024 is being held to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to foster dialogue, share best practices, and pave the way for a more robust and integrated approach to health and wellness tourism in the Philippines. 

Today, Jan. 27, will be the second day of the three-day event. Attendees can look forward to more informative presentations, as well as workshops and demonstrations on various facets of health and wellness tourism. The focus for today’s presentations will be on travel and technology, as well as natural and organic anti-aging best practices.

Co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation, the event is likewise supported by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Migrant Workers, Tourism Promotions Board, and Duty Free Philippines.

The Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is also made possible by the following:

Major Sponsors: Philippine Retirement Authority, Enjoy Health, Lifecore Bio Integrative Inc., Dean & Deluca Philippines, The Zen Institute, Conrad Manila, The Farm at San Benito, Nurture Wellness Village, Organique, CWC Interiors, Pots for Plants, and Center for Healthy Aging and Regenerative Medicine (CHARM), Lanson Place, Networld Hotel, Lime Hotels & Resorts; 

Minor Sponsors: Food Club, Sonia’s Garden, Annapoorna, Happy Garden Café, Holistic Integrative Care Center Philippines (HICC), Aba Pardes, King Fu Express, Piggy Papa, The Belle Salon, Speir Modern Residences;

Event Partners: IQ Capture Printing Corporation, Ark of Dreams, Market Social, SMX Convention Center, DigitalCircles Marketing Services, and Phildiz Studios;

Media Partners: GMA Network, ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA 7 GTV, Aliw Channel 23, Asian Journal, Balikbayan Magazine, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Daily Tribune, Digital Out Of Home Media (DOOH), Manila Standard, Rising Tigers, DZRH, Entrepinas TV, and Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc.;

Telco Partner: Globe 

Organizers and Event Managers: Mblessed Travel & Marketing, Inc. and Concept One Management Services.

From the creative concept of Mblessed Travel and Marketing, Inc., the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 was spearheaded by a team of seasoned event organizers, wellness advocates, travel and tours agencies, and marketing & communication professionals, and with the country's wellness guru, Cory Quirino, as its Executive Director.