Foreigners numbering more than 1.65 million visited the Philippines in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT). Although the figure was fewer by 0.60 percent for the same period in 2024, DOT data showed a surge in arrivals from Japan, Canada and Australia, while significant decline was reported in tourist arrivals from South Korea, China …

After the Department of Transportation extended the operating hours of the Metro Rail Transit line 3 (MRT 3) indefinitely, unconsolidated jeepney drivers were also allowed to operate again. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said he had already issued a directive to his department to help the unconsolidated drivers resume their routes and operate legally. Dizon said government must consider the plight …

Despite the integration of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental to form the Negros Island Region, Hiligaynon remains the main dialect with Kinaray-a, Capiznon and Aklanon also spoken in other provinces of Panay. Another indication of Negros’ rich culture is Sagay City in Negros Occidental which exemplifies authentic ecotourism. Carbin Reef which is part of the Sagay Marine Reserve, is one …

Gen. Santos City – long regarded as the country’s Tuna Capital – is fast earning a new reputation: farm tourism hub of Mindanao. The recent 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) with support from the City Government of Gen. Santos, made this possible. “At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple …

Batan Island – gateway to Batanes – is one of three main islands of the province (the other two – Sabtang and Itbayat). It is also site of four of the province’s six municipalities, including Basco, the provincial capital.   Visitors can circumnavigate the island in less than a day but touring the island should be done at leisure, the north …

Looking for a different kind of family getaway this summer? Alaminos, Pangasinan, just might be for you. Alaminos offers a unique balance between relaxation and adventure – away from the maddening crowd that accumulate at well-known tourist destinations. With its scenic beauty and laid-back charm, it allows you to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy a rustic environment without venturing …

An Austrian company called CycloTech has developed a new technology – called CycloRotors – the latest flying car innovation with engines that let the vehicle move easily in any direction — up, down, forward, or sideways. CycloTech recently introduced a flying test vehicle named BlackBird, an electric vehicle designed for vertical take-off and landing. Hans-Georg Kinsky, CycloTech CEO, said, “With …

Leading corporate executives expressed support for the fare increase in Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), reasoning that it is within the operator’s contract with government. The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), which comprises the country’s tycoons and business leaders, said it “stands for the sanctity of contract and the rule of law.” “MAP favors the approval of the …

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is searching for a general consultant for the EDSA Greenways Project, a 4.7-kilometer elevated walkway along Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare. DOTr said the general consultant will help manage the project, in addition to supervising the construction. The expert will provide transaction advisory service for the selection of private sector partners who will operate and maintain the …

The government has met with aviation companies in Canada, discussing potential expansion in the Philippines, while local airlines move to bolster their maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service capabilities. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said this was critical in her itinerary on her official trip to Canada this month. Roque added that Cebu Pacific and AirAsia …