zambales provincial tourism office

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

Department of tourism.

PST:   8:36:19

Media Release

The Department of Tourism (DOT) endeavors to ensure the tourism resiliency of the country’s prime destination, El Nido, Palawan, through the full implementation of the Sustainable Tourism Development Project (STDP) this year.

CORON, PALAWAN -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses support for Coron’s sustainable tourism development to draw more visitors and hasten tourism recovery.

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN -- Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat supports the decision of Puerto Princesa City (PPC) executives to reopen its attractions to more domestic tourists with minimum health and safety standards in place.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) starting today, March 1, opens the application for the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp to all DOT-accredited accommodation establishments (AEs) and tourism destinations that are open to local tourists.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the inclusion of Boracay's world-famous White Beach at the 12th spot and El Nido, Palawan's Nacpan Beach at 18th of the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice 2021 Best of the Best Awards Top 25 Beaches - Asia category.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is for the safe reopening of tourist destinations as this allows us to restart our economy and help our tourism workers regain their jobs. The Department therefore welcomes the approval of uniform travel protocols for all local government units (LGUs) by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) to facilitate travel movement and promote local tourism.

DUMAGUETE CITY -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) commits to assist yet another provincial destination as the local executives of Negros Oriental heralds reopening its sites to more domestic tourists.

SAN JUAN, SIQUIJOR -- Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat yesterday (24 February) traveled to Siquijor, as part of the ongoing efforts to assist in the safe reopening of tourist destinations in the new normal.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed support for the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)’s ongoing streamlining of travel procedures and requirements imposed by local government units (LGUs).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) commends the local government of El Nido for the tight entry protocols enforced to guarantee the health and safety of guests, workers and host communities in the tourist destination.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Bohol, announced its online travel fair, Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale, which will run from February 21 to March 14, 2021. The island-wide travel sale will offer discounts of up to 70% off on accommodations, dining, and tour services.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced today (February 17) the formal reopening of the historic walled city of Intramuros in the new normal.

Relaxed health protocols that are standard across tourism destinations and personalized packages will encourage more Filipinos to travel locally.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), after repeated warnings against tourists who falsify their COVID tests to enter Boracay, has filed charges against the six (6) Manila-based errant tourists who were nabbed in January 2021 for Falsification of Public Documents. Marc Judicpa of the DOT Region VI-Boracay Field and Compliance Monitoring Office (BFCMO) filed the complaint.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed optimism for tourism’s speedy recovery with the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) to reclassify industries for the continued reopening of the economy.

LAGUNA -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) elevates cultural tourism and ecotourism in the new normal as these will heighten domestic travel in the province amidst the pandemic.

The Department of Tourism - National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) is returning with the first installment of its Leadership Excellence Series (LES) featuring a 3600 virtual learning experience. The hybrid training program inspired by the world-renowned TEDTalks will be brought to life from the traditional webinar format through 3D and greenscreen technology and is happening at the Okada Manila on February 11, 2021, from 2:00 P.M.- 4:00 P.M via Zoom and simulcast over DOT-NCR’s social media channels @TourismMNL on Facebook and Twitter, and Tourism MNL on Youtube.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) lauds COVID Task Force Chief, Secretary Carlito Galvez for granting the DOT’s request to include tourism frontline service personnel in the Priority Group of the country’s vaccination program against the coronavirus disease.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced today that Baguio hotels can resume receiving domestic tourists even under General Community Quarantine (GCQ). This, after the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) passed Resolution No. 98 dated 04 February 2021, which granted the request of Baguio City to resume hotel operations in consideration of the huge number of confirmed bookings for the month of February.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) lauds recent developments to ensure Southeast Asia’s competitiveness as a single tourism destination and to bolster the recovery of tourism in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III on Tuesday (February 03) signed the DOT-DOLE Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2021-001 (Amended Implementing Guidelines on Providing Financial Assistance and Cash-For-Work Program for Displaced Workers in the Tourism Sector) which amends the former JMC to further expand the coverage of beneficiaries to include Local Government-Licensed Tourism Support Service (TSS) enterprises, providers and associations of providers.

In light of the recent case of six (6) tourists entering Boracay with fake RT-PCR test results, three (3) of whom were revealed to be positive for COVID-19, the Department of Tourism (DOT) appeals to travelers to stop forging and faking travel documents, else face fines and proper criminal charges from the local government units (LGU), which may include the penalty of imprisonment.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) reminds travelers that for most areas, especially for Boracay Island, a negative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test result is still a requirement before entry.

SAN PABLO, LAGUNA -- The development of green corridors play an important role in maintaining regional biodiversity, improving environmental quality, offering economic resilience opportunities, protecting heritage and culture, and supporting the jumpstart of the economy to restart tourism activities in the new normal.

SAN PABLO, LAGUNA -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) pledges to continuously promote Laguna as a fun, safe, and sustainable tourist destination with the help of the local government units (LGUs) and the private sector in the province.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the new protocols for arriving passengers contained in the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) Resolution No. 97 dated 28 January 2021, following the body’s decision to lift the travel ban on passengers coming from countries with reported cases of the new Covid variant.

The DOT Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) is currently investigating the reported party at a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment in Baguio City. A Notice to Explain has already been issued to the establishment.

Manila - The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially welcomed on Monday (25 January) Joy Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila and Grand Hyatt Hotel as the first two recipients of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp issued through the DOT.

BACOLOD CITY - After the successful reopening of Boracay Island to local tourists in October 2020, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is now in talks with local government officials and tourism stakeholders of Negros Occidental to explore the reopening of the province to more domestic tourists.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is saddened by the news of the management decision to temporarily close the operations starting February 1, 2021 of Makati Shangri-la Hotel.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the Slow Food Negros Community, Negros Museum, and Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, on Tuesday (January 19), launched an 82-page cookbook entitled “Negrense Heritage Cooking”.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), in its Resolution dated 14 January 2021, finds the City Garden Grand Hotel (CGGH) in Makati City liable for the offense of gross and evident bad faith in dealing with clients/fraudulent solicitation of business or making any false, deceptive, or misleading claims or statements for the purpose of soliciting business from clients under Section 13.2 (c) of DOT Memorandum Circular No. 2018-03.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates anew with the world as White Beach, Boracay and El Nido, Palawan place 2nd and 9th, respectively, in Condé Nast’s Traveler's 25 Best Island Beaches in the World: 2020 Readers' Choice Awards list.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) reiterates that there are only fifteen (15) accredited accommodation establishments (AEs) in Metro Manila that operate as staycation hotels as of 05 January 2021

The Department of Tourism (DOT) throws its full support for the implementation of more stringent entry protocols in view of the confirmed new COVID-19 variant.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat has cautioned DOT-accredited hotels currently used as quarantine hotels to refrain from accepting guests for staycation purposes.

MANILA, Philippines – In a bid to further expand access to affordable RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test in time for New Year domestic travels, the Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, inks a Memorandum of Agreement with the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC) on December 28, 2020.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched the Balikan Ang Pilipinas campaign to encourage Balikbayans to travel to the Philippines this season and visit the country's sites and destinations with their loved ones.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) throws its unequivocal support to the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to temporarily suspend all flights from the United Kingdom (UK) starting Thursday, December 24, 2020 until December 31, 2020.

Baguio City – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced that about 27,000 qualified displaced tourism workers in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) have been endorsed by the DOT to receive the P5,000.00 cash assistance under the DOT-DOLE Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2020-001.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has slated two engagement meetings with local tourism stakeholders on the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC)'s Safe Travels Stamp and its step-by-step application procedure and requirements next week, December 21.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) sets forth to satisfy holiday cravings for Filipino cuisine through its fourth installment of the KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival happening from December 17 to 20, 2020.

To usher in the Domestic Tourism Campaign in this holiday season, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, launched “Pasko Na!”, an Audio Video Presentation (AVP) promoting traditional Filipino Christmas practices through Ryan Cayabyab’s original composition that spreads positivity and holiday cheer while aptly reminding of health and safety protocols.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) lauds local government units (LGUs) for their efforts in reopening safe tourist destinations all over the country in answer to the increasing interest in travel and tour activities.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has collaborated with the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc. (PCEPSDI) in holding a webinar training program for the hospitality sector to reduce single-use plastics while keeping in mind health and safety protocols.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) through its partner, the Makati Medical Center Foundation Inc. (MakatiMed Foundation) received strong support for its pandemic response and security initiatives in local tourism destinations in light of the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), takes a step further in promoting Manila’s cultural heritage sites, collaborating with The Manila Heritage Trail and Manila Heritage Alliance to bring a free virtual concert titled “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita Manila” bannering the music of iconic band Hotdog to performed by various OPM artists.

Mabini, Batangas -- Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat on Wednesday (Dec. 9), expressed support for the continued development of dive tourism in Anilao, otherwise known as the birthplace of scuba diving in the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has already launched an investigation into the matter, and after due notice and hearing, will mete the proper administrative sanctions to the resort.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) condemns yet another reckless social gathering organized at a tourism establishment, this time at the Blue Coral Beach Resorts Inc. in Barangay Laiya, San Juan, Batangas on Monday, December 7.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), as the co-vice chair of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF), condemns the tourists from Luzon who counterfeited COVID-19 test results upon entry in the island on Monday (Dec. 7).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) reaches out to tourism workers who were affected by the closure of establishments or those which scaled down operations, to immediately avail of the expanded financial assistance as part of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act interventions to address the pandemic’s impact on Philippine tourism.

MANILA— The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) through the ratification of IATF Resolution No. 87 on December 03, 2020, to allow some types of indoor business meetings in areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

BORACAY - Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat in today’s Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) Meeting in the island, hammered in the importance of strictly enforcing health and safety protocols to raise visitor confidence. “We cannot stress fully enough the importance of showing our seriousness in carrying out our protocols and guidelines. Our local leadership is key in bringing forward our improved image. Furthermore, it is our wish to make more affordable RT-PCR tests to encourage more visits.”

MANILA (December 1, 2020) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT), in collaboration with Guide to the Philippines and the Asian Institute of Management (AIM)-Dr. Andrew L. Tan Center launched a follow-up survey on Philippine Travelers' sentiments in the new normal.

The Department of Tourism supports Coron, Palawan’s decision to ease its travel restrictions starting December 1, 2020, allowing local tourists from ages 15 to 65 years old to enter the island under a test-before-travel policy.

The Philippines’ dive sites and Intramuros once again bagged accolades at the 27th World Travel Awards. The award-giving body recognized the Philippines as the World's Leading Dive Destination and Intramuros as the World's Leading Tourist Attraction in 2020.

Now that the Philippines has reopened several tourist destinations after many months of closure, it’s time to show the country how to smile again. The DOT’s latest video, following the “Noypi” tribute to medical frontliners, brings us back to familiar, yet slightly different territory: tourism in the new normal.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the ratification of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) Resolution No. 85 which includes the provision on allowing balikbayans’ entry to the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), as co-vice chair of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) slams the irresponsible mass gathering at the Casa de Arte, Sitio Cagban, Barangay Manoc-Mano in Boracay recently.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) touts cultural tourism in Baguio as it remains optimistic that initiatives such as the Ibagíw Festival will sustain the treasured traditions and art forms of the city.

ILOCOS SUR – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat was among the first guests of Ilocos Sur as the province reopened to visitors, this time including tourists from Metro Manila.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes and supports the reopening of another premiere destination- Siargao Island.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is grateful to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) under the leadership of Senator Richard J. Gordon for the initiative to reduce the Reverse Transcription -Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing price to PHP 3,300.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) commends the City Government of Baguio, Baguio Arts and Crafts Collective, Inc., UP Baguio, DOT-CAR and the city government for the successful launch of Ibagiw 2020. The third edition of the month-long creative festival kicked off with a grand opening on November 6, 2020 at the Baguio Convention Center and was also livestreamed on Facebook.

More than 7,200 hotels, resorts and other accommodation establishments (AEs) have been authorized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to operate under different quarantine classifications and cater to different types of travelers, depending on their location and purpose.

MANILA – Banking on tourism as a key economic driver, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Nissan Philippines have embarked on a road trip geared towards promoting safe and responsible land traveling to boost domestic tourism.

To upgrade tourism education and skills training in the country, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has closed ranks with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s signing of Executive Order (EO) 118, today, November 4, directing the Department of Health (DOH), in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), to ensure the accessibility and affordability of COVID-19 tests and test kits for all.

The 27th World Travel Awards recognized the Philippines as Asia's leading beach destination and Asia’s leading dive destination in 2020. The award-giving body also declared the Philippine Department of Tourism as this year’s leading tourist board in Asia, besting 11 nominated countries.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) invites foodies to embark on "Food Trips" with the second leg of its virtual KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival 2020 from November 3 to 6, 2020.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III on Friday (October 30) signed the DOT-DOLE Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2020-001, which contains specific guidelines for the provision of cash assistance and cash-for-work program for tourism workers that were displaced due to the ongoing pandemic.

Manila, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines launched Travel Philippines, the country’s official travel companion, today, 30 October 2020. The app provides users access to the latest travel advisories and safety guidelines in various destinations that have reopened to tourism. The easy-to-use platform allows users to create itineraries for their future trips, find up-to-date information on their favorite tourist attractions, and securely store digital copies of travel documents.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the news that two of our prime destinations – Palawan and Boracay, have made it to Big 7 Travel’s list of the 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World (https://bigseventravel.com/2020/10/50-most-beautiful-places-in-the-world/), ranking 8th and 18th, respectively.

MANILA – The well-received online learning event dubbed the “Leadership Excellence Series (LES) 2020” is returning once again this October as it targets to rebuild consumer confidence and redefine standards for the Filipino brand of service.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat urged micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to avail of the CARES for Tourism Rehabilitation and Vitalization of Enterprises and Livelihood (CARES for TRAVEL) Program to help them sustain their businesses and keep their workers amid the on-going pandemic.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat appeals for a price cap on the real-time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and Antigen tests for COVID-19 to enhance tourism revival, as the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) relaxes travel restrictions in areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the decision of the Municipal Government of El Nido to ease its travel restrictions starting October 30, allowing tourists to enter the island under a test-before-travel policy.

The Board of Trustees of the Philippine Retirement Agency (PRA), an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has directed the PRA to suspend the issuance of the Special Retirees Residence Visa (SRRV) pending the review and amendments of the policies on age and visa deposit requirements.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced today that the DOT has been given the authority, by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), to determine the allowable operational capacity (up to 100%) for hotels, including staycation hotels, in areas classified under a modified community quarantine (MGCQ) and general community quarantine (GCQ).

ILOCOS NORTE – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced that the Ridge and Reef Corridor heralds another milestone in the country’s bid to spur domestic tourism recovery.

The DOT welcomes the news that the province of Ilocos Sur will open to Luzon residents on November 15 once all systems and health and safety measures are in place.

BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the decision of the local government unit (LGU) of Baguio City to open its doors to guests from Luzon, particularly the National Capital Region (NCR) and Regions 2 and 3, starting on October 22, 2020, noting that the anticipated influx of tourists will generate tourism activities that will spur a swifter recovery of the industry.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the amended guidelines from the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EIMD) regarding the more liberal interzonal and intrazonal movement of persons traveling between destinations under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat issued a reminder to “staycation hotels,” to adhere to the guidelines and protocols set by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and ensure a memorable and safe staycation of guests taking a break from months of quarantine.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) calls on divers to dust off their masks, fins, snorkels, regulators, and other gear as popular dive sites in Batangas prepare to welcome tourists.

Bring your own gear and use a defog solution for your mask.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) today (October 12) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to finalize the CARES for Tourism Rehabilitation and Vitalization of Enterprises and Livelihood ( TRAVEL) program that will extend loan assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the tourism industry.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) will provide a total of Php 1.6 million funding to Boracay to cover the cost of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for the island’s tourism workers, as it expects more local tourist arrivals in the coming months.

Ilocos Norte, which is famous for a variety of attractions, including panoramic ocean views, a breathtaking wind farm, baroque architecture, and sand dunes adventure, is reopening its doors to more tourists from the rest of Luzon on October 15.

Cebu and Visayas Islands have been named Top Island in Asia, leading three other Philippine islands in the top ten of the Conde Naste Traveler's (CNT) 2020 Readers' Choice Awards.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat welcomes the adoption of the Antigen Testing as a way to determine if Baguio City's visitors are COVID-19 free.

The Commission on Audit (COA) Renders an “Unqualified Opinion” over the Department of Tourism's Financial Statements as of December 31, 2019.

BORACAY — The reopening of Boracay, the Philippines’ top destination, to new market sources signals the safe and gradual revival of the country’s tourism industry amid the pandemic, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Thursday (Oct. 1).

Tourism enterprises can now apply online for accreditation with the Department of Tourism (DOT) with the launch of its Online Accreditation System.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued strict guidelines for “staycations” as part of the government efforts to re-start the economy through tourism.

On behalf of the Philippines Department of Tourism, let me warmly wish everyone a happy and meaningful World Tourism Day. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Rural Development,” is particularly relevant to our country as many of our rural areas depend on tourism but have been adversely affected by the pandemic.

PANGLAO, Bohol – Even in the most unusual ways, the travel business has to continue to keep tourism alive.

Boracay Island will further open its doors to more local tourists on October 1, thus signaling the continued resurgence of domestic tourism nationwide.

BAGUIO CITY –Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat is back in the Summer Capital of the Philippines to officially launch the city’s first online visitor management system today (September 22).

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has given the Department of Tourism (DOT) a SafeTravels Stamp in recognition of its adoption of “health and hygiene global standardized protocols” that will ensure safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Domestic tourism will be the main concentration of the Department of Tourism (DOT) in rebuilding trust and confidence in the travel market for next year.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) disclosed on Thursday (Sept. 17) some details of the loan program for tourism MSMEs that is being finalized with the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

MANILA - A virtual ceremonial toast with customized wooden chalices marked the official start of the four-day KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival 2020 on Tuesday (Sept. 15) with chocolate, coffee and tea taking the spotlight.

More than 10,000 jobs in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry would be made available to displaced tourism workers nationwide this month.

Lifeguards will not be the only ones on patrol when the beaches and resorts reopen for business under the tourism industry’s “new normal.” Safety marshalls will also be on site to ensure physical distancing.

MANILA -- The Philippines, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), successfully hosted the virtual edition of the 3rd International Conference on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Tourism Professionals (ASEAN MRA-TP) that is expected to largely influence the Department’s Tourism Response and Recovery Plan (TRRP), particularly its human resource component.

The Department of Tourism's food and travel festival, Kain Na!, is back and is prepared to serve exciting culinary tourism delights that everyone can enjoy online and in the comfort of their homes from September 15-18.

It’s official—the Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) is back for its 2nd edition through a digital platform from October 9 to 11, 2020.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), consistent with the President’s direction, has been engaging with the local governments, other national government agencies and local tourism stakeholders for the gradual reopening of the sector while underscoring the strict compliance of health and safety protocols.

TOKYO – The Philippines received the award as the Best Overseas Diving Area in the Marine Diving Awards 2020 held recently in Tokyo.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the mention of multiple Philippine dive sites in the Lonely Planet's article entitled *quot;6 national parks around the world with surprisingly spectacular diving".

BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) threw its full support behind the Ridge to Reef Corridor Plan, one of the key strategies being explored to ensure Baguio City's gradual and safe reopening to tourists from nearby provinces within the year.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses its deep gratitude to the Bicameral Conference Committee for approving the allocation of 10 billion pesos for the tourism industry under the Bayanihan To Recover As One or the Bayanihan 2 Bill. The recognition of the tourism sector by the Senate and House of Representatives, in the Bayanihan Act 2 measures, ensures the survival of our MSMEs since 99.9 percent of the 144,640 establishments in accommodation and food service activities are considered micro, small and medium, according to 2018 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Online shoppers can now enjoy varied Philippine flavors, quality–sealed fresh and processed food selections, and other essentials all under one platform which provides a seamless shopping experience for the customer.

Panglao, BOHOL – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat assured the officials and tourism players of Bohol on Friday that reopening the island province to tourism would not be pursued at the expense of public health and safety.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is pulling out all the stops to ensure that health and safety measures are in place in the country's tourist destinations and to reassure all stakeholders of government support as the industry prepares to slowly reopen.

It's a new world out there and we have to think out of the box if we want to go back to business as usual.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses optimism for the recovery of the tourism industry, following the Senate approval of the Senate Bill 1564 or the Bayanihan To Recover As One Act on its third and final reading Tuesday (July 28)..

Boracay Island is now open to young and senior tourists from the Western Visayas region.

Meetings, conventions and exhibitions can be held only in areas under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) and only at 50 percent capacity, according to the guidelines set by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) will team up with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to promote farm tourism and help the country's tourism industry recover from the COVID–19 pandemic.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat has given the directive for schools to continue online English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to maintain the country's position as a leading ESL destination.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) today celebrates the hailing of Palawan as it reclaims the Best Island in the World title by renowned travel publication, Travel + Leisure.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat said that more restaurants in Metro Manila are seeking accreditation with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Dairy, fresh fruits, vegetables and other daily essentials will soon be delivered to your doorsteps by GrabExpress from 40 small farmers and MSMEs participating under the Department of Tourism's (DOT) Philippine Harvest online trade fair.

EL NIDO, PALAWAN -- Eyeing tourism recovery in the reopening of more destinations, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat today checked the readiness of one of the Philippines' favorite destinations – Palawan.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez led the inspection of selected hotels and restaurants in the Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 1) to check compliance with health and safety protocols under Metro Manila's General Community Quarantine (GCQ) guidelines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) said that it anticipates the reopening of the tourism industry in concurrence with the local government units (LGU), with the easing of travel restrictions, as more places around the country transition to a modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

Domestic travel will lead the recovery of the country's tourism industry with Filipino travelers expecting to go to destinations closer to home and spending less amid lingering health concerns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat hailed on Friday the reactivation of the Tourist Police units, saying it would hasten the tourism industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The tourism industry will recover well from three months of quarantine and restore the jobs lost by millions of Filipinos dependent on the industry.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the inclusion of Hidden Beach in El Nido, Palawan in Condé Nast Traveller's (CNT) "The 30 Best Beaches in the World" feature. The list was made in light of the pandemic, stating that "…while the world waits to find out when we can travel again, now is the time to think about a future summer holiday visiting one of the world's best beaches."

The tourism industry increased its contribution to the country's economy to almost 13 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) last year, according to government statistics.

In line with the Department of Tourism's (DOT) priority effort to roll out its new health and safety standards as well as the Inter-Agency Task Force on the management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) restrictions among tourism stakeholders nationwide, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of San Juan, La Union recently conducted spot inspections among tourism stakeholders in its popular beach and surfing area and clamped down on enterprises that have violated national and local government issuances during the period of quarantine.

The Boracay Interagency Task Force (BIATF) decries the entry of a group of travelers to Boracay last June 12 that stayed up to June 14 when the island was not officially open for tourism.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases' (IATF-EID) approval of the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) recommendation to allow the partial dine-in operations of restaurants in localities under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

"The partnership of the public and private sector to ensure the safety and sustainability of tourism should be a model for other island destinations in the country," Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said during the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force BIATF meeting in Boracay on June 11, 2020.

While travel restrictions are still in place, for both domestic and foreign travel, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has been maintaining its presence online with its most recent digital campaign, “Wake Up in the Philippines” and its microsite philippines.travel/safeph for relevant updates on tourism-related sectors in the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued the New Normal Health and Safety Guidelines for Tourist Land Transport Services covering transport operators/owners, passengers, vehicles, and drivers.

The Inter–Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) further stressed the importance of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Certificate of Authority to operate for accommodation establishments (AEs) going back to business during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), and General Community Quarantine (GCQ) periods.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has released Memorandum Circular No 2020-004 or the "New Normal Health and Safety Guidelines for DOT–Accredited Restaurants" that will cover the areas of Management; Configuration and Set–up; Employees; Customers; Service and other Procedure; Delivery; and Sanitation, Disinfection, Safety Measure, and others.

The Department of Tourism welcomes the latest tourism–related distinction received by the country, having been recently named as one of the "Rising Stars in Travel" by Forbes.com, the website of the respected American business and financial news publication.

The joint recommendations of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on health and safety protocols for restaurant dine–in operations were approved by the Inter–Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID).

With the hampered travel movement brought about by the COVID–19 pandemic situation, work and play are inevitably done online. The evolving crisis and in anticipation of other challenges, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its attached agencies are making sure that Philippine tourism remains competitive, adapts well and takes advantage of the digital revolution.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat reminds tourism stakeholders, particularly hotel and resort entrepreneurs to secure a DOT Certificate of Authority to Operate before going back to business under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) maintained its commitment to the Filipino Brand of Service and Hospitality, as exhibited by the agency's successful initiatives to assist a total of 36,947 stranded foreign and domestic tourists, since land, air, and sea travel restrictions were placed by the government as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of the disease.

We must make the transition to digital and online for our industry to survive.

The DOT welcomes the gradual re-opening of tourism operations in light of the varied community quarantine levels across the country, hoping to pave the eventual recovery of the Philippines' tourism industry.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) remains optimistic that the Philippines will regain the tourists' trust in the country as a safe and viable tourism destination sooner, and hasten recovery of the country's tourism industry.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the encouraging developments towards reopening of tourist destinations and ensured that the tourism sector is ready to provide service under the post-lockdown "New Normal" scenario.

At least 84 domestic tourists stranded in Eastern Visayas since last March finally returned home with the assistance of the Department of Tourism (DOT) in joint efforts with other agencies and local government units (LGUs).

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has released the Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Accommodation Establishments under the New Normal, indicating quite a number of significant changes in the country's frontline tourist services.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat expressed confidence that an imaginative Filipino gastronomy will remain a strong pillar of the country’s tourism industry under the new normal.

How will the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic crisis impact and reshape tourism, sustainability and conservation programs at the country' heritage sites under the new normal?

The Department of Tourism (DOT) commits to sustain the Filipino brand of hospitality and service to stranded tourists amid the government-enforced community quarantine brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

With Metro Manila now placed under modified enhanced community quarantine and the majority of the other places in the country under general community quarantine or GCQ, the DOT, together with the Inter–Agency Taskforce on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) and several local government units (LGU), are preparing for the revival and re–opening of tourism in the Philippines once our places are classified under the modified GCQ (MGCQ).

The tourism industry will recover.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in an advisory directed hotel operators and their ancillary establishments to submit detailed documentation on their safety protocols for their food preparation services.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat said the tourism industry is ready to face the reality and daunting challenges of the "new normal," referring to new standards and protocols for safe and responsible tourism that will direct its path to recovery.

A total of 155,672 employees from 4,290 tourism–related enterprises received their cash grants under the joint program of the Department of Finance (DOF), Social Security System (SSS), and Bureau of Internal Revenue, called the Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBSW) program as of May 4.

MANILA – Over 1,000 domestic tourists who were stranded in various tourist destinations in the country have returned home, mostly in Metro Manila, with the assistance of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

MANILA, Philippines – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat reaffirmed the country's commitment to the regional tourism cooperation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on the road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

DOT to assist Zambales in safe and gradual tourism reopening – Friday, December 11, 2020

As local government leaders of Zambales start to prepare to reopen provincial borders to local visitors, the Department of Tourism (DOT) vowed to provide additional assistance that would intensify health and safety protocols in the province. “As with all other destinations, I cannot stress enough the importance of enforcing the health and safety protocols. These should be strengthened through public information and communications campaigns. Knowing that these guidelines are in place will restore confidence in tourists visiting the province and assurance among the locals who will be welcoming visitors,” Tourism Chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Friday (December 11) during a planning forum with Zambales local government unit (LGU) leaders and tourism stakeholders to discuss strategies and solutions to existing issues and concerns pivotal to the province’s reopening for tourism. In keeping with its commitment to the “slow but sure” reopening of tourism destinations, the DOT has agreed to fund a Visitor Management System for Zambales, akin to the Visitor Information and Travel Assistance (VIS.I.T.A.) that the DOT provided to Baguio City through its Tourism Promotions Board (TPB). Puyat said the DOT will also continue its thorough inspection and accreditation of tourism-related establishments in the province, as well as provide additional capability-building trainings on the implementation of health and safety guidelines. According to data provided by the DOT Region 3 Office, Zambales was among the most visited destinations in Central Luzon. In 2019, it ranked second in the region in terms of tourist arrivals, receiving a total of 755,141 tourists, translating to an estimated Php 1,919,983,000 in tourism expenditure. The Zambales coastline is most famous for its sandy beaches and deep blue sea teeming with coral reefs which is home to giant clams or as the locals call it, taklobo. It is perfect for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. To aid tourism businesses and workers of Zambales in recovering from their losses, Puyat cited existing government assistance for the tourism industry such as the financial assistance program for displaced tourism workers of the DOT and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). "The financial assistance program now extends to beneficiaries of both the DSWD’s SAP and DOLE’s CAMP under BAYANIHAN 1; workers of affected establishments that implemented Flexible Work Arrangements or Alternative Work Schemes; and LGU-Licensed Secondary Tourism Enterprises. Please get in touch with our Regional Office. Of course, we want to give it to as many people working in the tourism industry as possible,” Puyat said. As of December 11, the DOT Region 3 has endorsed 588 beneficiaries from 50 tourism establishments and two community-based tourism organizations in Zambales to receive one-time cash assistance of Php 5,000 through the DOT-DOLE program. Meanwhile, under the CARES for TRAVEL program between the DOT and the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp), tourism micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will have access to zero interest, no collateral loans with a loan term period of up to four years including a corresponding grace period of up to one year. “The borrower MSMEs will only need to pay a one-time service fee, which is at a maximum of eight percent for a four-year loan,” Puyat added. Thanking the DOT, private sector, media, and stakeholders, Governor Ebdane remarked, “We had an exchange of ideas, and questions and answers, and we made known our concerns. These are the IATF-EID resolutions and advice of the DOT. What we have had today will be the basis for further discussion through a Technical Working Group. We need the cooperation of everybody to be prepared.” ###

Tourism Secretary Puyat scans a Quick Response (QR) code for check–in procedures as tourism establishments adapt to digitalization and new normal

Health and safety remains the top priority as tourism reopens in Palawan as discussed by Tourism Secretary Puyat, Governor Alvarez and El Nido Mayor Edna Lim (right)

Tourism Secretary Puyat meets the members of the media via a virtual press conference to discuss the destination's tourism recovery.

L–R Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat, El Nido Mayor Edna Lim, Tourism Promotions Board COO Maria Anthonette Velasco–Allones, and Ten Knots Development Corporation COO Javier Hernandez in front of the El Nido backdrop after the site inspection.

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Zambales is one of those places that pretty much has it all – untainted forest landscape, the Sierra Madre mountain range, communities that practice living traditions and 107 miles of pure beach. Plus a whole bunch of cool islands and shoals for day trips and quiet camping trips.

The province has 13 towns and one city, Olongapo, that are all accessible via public air-conditioned buses from Cubao or Pasay in Metro Manila.

Despite its proximity to major cities, Zambales remains the bastion of the Aeta. They were the earliest Filipinos to migrate to the archipelago more than 10,000 years ago – thousands of years even before the Austronesian migration.

Although the Aetas — also known as Ati, Ata, and Agta — are scattered throughout the Philippines, Zambales has the largest known population. There are several Aeta dialects in the province.

Some Aeta guides hold Jungle Survival classes within the Subic Freeport zone. Perfect if you’re a fan of “Man vs. Wild” scenarios. You could also be lucky enough to interact with the Aeta in their own mountain villages.

Of course, this is more likely to happen should you choose to go hiking.

If you want to go hiking, you have lots to choose from as about 60% of the area is covered in mountains. Some of the more popular ones are Mt. Tapulao, Mt. Cinco Picos and Mt. Balingkilat.

Of course, since you’re in the Philippines, there must be a beach or a lake somewhere. Here, there are beaches with wreck drives, snorkeling options and even pine-tree lined beaches like the ones in San Antonio!

San Antonio is where you’ll find the costal town of Pundaquit, the jump-off point to Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove.  The mountains, pine trees, and rivers here seem a landscape more apt for Colorado – except, it’s a beach! This unique scenery has made the coves a favorite spot of photographers. And because these are coves, the water is calm and the shore gently slopes.  Feel free to pitch a tent and stay the night, just don’t go looking for a cellphone signal!

Right across Pundaquit is Camara Island ad Capones Island.  Though both islands are around 30 minutes away by boat, Capones gets more attention because it’s bigger and offers more activities.  You can surf, sunbathe, have a picnic, explore the different sides of the island, or hike up to the Faro de Punta Capones lighthouse.

Zambales faces the West Philippine Sea, so surfers, expect to get stoked here, especially in San Narciso and San Felipe.  These beachside towns don’t have a shortage of resorts, but The Circle Hostel in San Felipe is the hot new thing.  It’s stripped down to the bare minimums (think three-level bunk beds, no air-conditioning), but hey, you can paint art on the wall, try slacklining (tightrope walking), or join the weekly yoga classes.

Farther north in Candelaria, you’ll find Potipot Island. And the name is perfect, because it’s a cute name for a cute island. In fact, the island is tiny enough for you to walk around it in less than an hour.  The beige sand is fine and it’s perfect for sunbathing.  Sun too harsh? Don’t worry, the largecamachile tree provides ample shade.

Pine-tree-lined beaches, untaited forests, challenging waves, art and yoga by the beach — all within a few hours away from Manila. Zambales is not to be missed!

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Zambales cautiously reopens doors to tourists and visitors

Henry empeño.

• June 16, 2021
• 4 minute read

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Safe and fun, safety measure.

IBA, Zambales—Slowly, safely, surely.

Despite the onset of rains and safety restrictions from the lingering Covid-19 pandemic, local tourism stakeholders, from fruit vendors to hotel owners, are now hoping to catch up with the tail end of the summer season when beaches and mountain resorts in the province become in demand.

This anticipation is shared by the Zambales Tourism Office, which sent out an online invitation two weeks ago for “safe and worry-free travel” to the province—the first time it did so since the Covid-19 pandemic began 15 months ago.

“Whenever you’re ready, we are ready,” the Tourism Office said, urging visitors to ride the waves, explore exciting trails, and fall in love with nature all over again.

Zambales, which was among the most visited destinations in Central Luzon, received more than 755,000 tourists in 2019. The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Region 3 estimated that this number of arrivals generated some P1.9 billion in tourism expenditure.

But beach resorts and hotels, tour guides and campsite staff, souvenir makers and even roadside fruit sellers have fallen on hard times since then when Covid-19 took its toll on the travel industry.

Now hope springs fresh with the May 25 memorandum circular issued by Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., which sought the experimental reopening of the provincial tourism industry, albeit with much caution.

Under Ebdane’s order, a total of 38 hotels, resorts and accommodation establishments—out of hundreds of such facilities scattered across Zambales—have been allowed to accept visitors.

Zambales tourism officer Domitela Mora said these accredited hotels and resorts have been rigorously inspected by DOT-Region 3 and municipal joint inspection teams to enforce their compliance with health safety guidelines and accommodation standards.

“With safety protocols and health standards in place, Zambales is a safe and fun destination under the new normal,” Mora said.

At the moment, 10 out of the 13 towns in the provinces have establishments that can readily admit visitors under stringent health protocols. These are Subic, which has Whiterock Beach Hotel & Waterpark, Krrels Family Resort, Aplaya Del Subic Capati Resort, and ARA-J Lodge; San Antonio, which has eight beach resorts—Hidaway, Arirang, Canoe, Megan’s Paradiso, Destinare, Pearl Island, Pundaquit Luxury, and Youhan.

In San Narciso town, there are six accredited beach resorts: Kakay, La Paz Crystal, Prince JB, Casa Virginia, Trinidad, and Zambawood; San Felipe has three—Zamba Villas, Zambali Woods, and LJV; Cabangan has Villa Mi Amor Resort and Hotel; while Botolan has Haven, C&J Sunset View, Indira, Haya,  Inner Circle, and Sundowners.

Further up north, the capital town of Iba has The Roof Bed and Breakfast, Mango Tree Inn, Tammy’s, Chloe Belle Del Monte Carlo, and Funtasea; Palauig has Armada Resort; Masinloc boasts of D’Farm and Park, and Maria’s Hotel; while Candelaria has Dawal Beach, and Potipot Gateway.

Aside from lodging, these accredited establishments have been allowed to host weddings, seminars, conferences, birthday celebrations, reunions and other events under strict health safety protocols.

The reopening of Zambales to tourists happily coincided with the June 1 resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), which allowed residents of all ages from the National Capital Region and the nearby provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna and to travel point-to-point to areas under modified GCQ.

Still, this was no cause for Zambales to be lax in safety requirements, Gov. Ebdane told the BusinessMirror.

“While [NCR Plus residents] are allowed and can travel as authorized, we maintain the same health protocol by which no person is allowed entry unless certified Covid-19 negative. Otherwise, they have to undergo RT-PCR [reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction] tests upon arrival at our provincial boundaries,” Ebdane said.

“If they are traveling as tourists, they still have to accomplish VisITA forms,” the governor added.

VisITA, which stands for Zambales Information and Travel Assistance, is the official Web-based travel management and tourism promotion platform ( https://visita.zambales.gov.ph ) that travelers intending to stay overnight in Zambales need to access to register their upcoming travel and upload required documents.

Registering at VisITA would also entail booking at DOT-accredited establishments, which are allowed to operate at only 30 percent capacity.

Meanwhile, the establishments allowed to host social events must also secure clearance from the municipal mayor and the municipal health officer before guests can register with VisITA for the planned events.

The Zambales Tourism Office has clarified recently that saliva tests performed by laboratories authorized by the Department of Health are accepted in place of RT-PCR tests for the negative RT-PCR results required upon entry in the province.

Preparations

Local tourism stakeholders, meanwhile, welcomed the reopening and agreed to the requirements discussed during a meeting between Zambales officials and local resort owners last month.

On May 27, employees of the accredited tourism establishments that joined Phase 1 of the local tourism reopening program subjected themselves to SARS CoV-2 antigen testing as a first step in ensuring the safety of their business and in preparation for the arrival of visitors.

Reports from the town of Botolan indicated that all 67 tourism employees from the three accredited accommodation establishments tested negative of the Covid-19 virus.

The same was true for the 44 hotel and resort workers in San Narciso during the first batch of testing undertaken by the local health unit.

Zambales, which faces the West Philippine Sea, has one of the longest coastlines in the Philippines and is naturally popular for its beaches and island resorts.

It is also emerging to be a huge adventure tourism site because of Mt. Pinatubo in Botolan town and Mt. Tapulao in Palauig, which is the highest mountain in Central Luzon, as well as numerous lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and caves.

Henry E. Empeño took up A.B. Journalism at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, but plunged headlong into actual newspaper work without graduating from college.

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Top 12 Zambales Tourist Spots: Island Coves & Family Activities

1. Camp at Anawangin Cove

2. unwind at nagsasa cove, 3. take photos at capones island, 4. spend a weekend at crystal beach resort, 5. play at inflatable island subic.

• 6. Hike Mt. Pinatubo

7. Escape to Talisayen Cove

8. stop over at camara island, 9. ride horses at el kabayo stables, 10. harvest mangoes at rosa farms, 11. learn history at ramon magsaysay museum, 12. visit animals at botolan wildlife farm, experience a blissful getaway in zambales.

Plan your getaway to Zambales, a quick beach destination from Manila. Check out the top attractions and must-try activities in this guide. 

Zambales is just 3-4 hours away from busy Metro Manila but it offers a myriad of fun activities and attractions perfect for families, couples, and group of friends. 

• Find Subic tours that you can add to your Zambales itinerary
• Read our article on the top hotels in Subic

Nestled in the Central Luzon region in the Philippines , you can choose from fun Zambales activities like chilling on sandy beaches, enjoying an intimate camping experience, riding the waves, trekking to a volcano, jumping in an inflatable playground, and more.

Zambales also has historical attractions. The province is the ancestral home of the Philippines’ beloved President, Ramon Magsaysay, who came from Castillejos. You can also visit the legendary Capones Island, which unravels a rich history and spectacular rocky view.

See our popular Subic Tours and Activities

Camayan beach resort day pass with access to beach & shower room, inflatable island beach club zambales day pass with pool, beach, & lounge access + f&b voucher, ocean adventure day pass with access to a dolphin show.

If you’re planning a trip to Zambales, don’t forget to add these tourist spots and take note of the exciting things to do. 

Anawangin Cove is one of the most popular camping spots in Zambales. The sheltered bay boasts and ash-colored beach due to the Mt. Pinatubo volcanic eruption. 

• Get tickets to Ocean Adventure Subic
• Secure passes to Adventure Beach Waterpark
• Go on a Camayan Beach Resort day tour

It’s surrounded with a vast, evergreen, and tall Agoho trees similar to pine trees. Imagine if Boracay and Baguio had a baby, this would be it.

This is a go-to place for first-time and experienced campers alike. Make sure that you bring everything you need going here like food, cooking materials, toiletries, and camp essentials. You can also visit it via an Anawangin Cove island-hopping tour .

See our popular Camping Tours

Overnight camping near manila package at kalinaw sa kalakawan bulacan with bonfire, relaxing 2-day camping near manila at kalinaw sa kalakawan bulacan with kawa hot bath & bonfire, 2-day nagsasa cove zambales camping package with tent accommodations.

Similar to Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove is also carpeted with ash-colored sand and surrounded by pine-like Agoho trees. It has all the good things Anawangin is known for, but this one has a more relaxed atmosphere.

Hike up the hill to enjoy the breathtaking view. From there, you should see the aqua blue water encircled with nature’s greenery in all its glory.

See our popular Island Hopping Tours

Boracay island hopping tour with lunch & snorkeling, best coron island hopping tour with lunch & transfers, el nido island hopping tour to the best lagoons & pristine beaches.

The island was previously known as “Isla de Gran Capon” during the Spanish era. It’s covered in rocks on one end and white sand on the other. It’s a great attraction for surfers and divers alike.

The island is legendary for its lighthouse which was built in 1890, with Filipino’s bare hands. The famous landmark sits atop the sharp cliff. The tower is perfect for photoshoots since it displays an inviting cinematic scene. 

Crystal Beach Resort offers a heavenly stay where nature and comfort is wrapped into one. It is conveniently located in San Narciso, Zambales. It’s a favorite hangout place for thrill-seekers, especially for surfing enthusiasts and beginners who yearn to ride big waves near the metro. 

The resort offers a variety of lodging options, from air-conditioned rooms to glamping tents. Their rooms should be lauded for how it embraces its native roots for it exhibits primitive Nipa hut design elements.

They’re also a pet-friendly resort! So feel free to bring your furry friend/s with you for your trip to Zambales.

Photo by Inflatable Island

Get ready to get wet at this floating theme park found in Subic Bay, Zambales. Inflatable Island has grown even massive since it opened in 2017. It now stretches to the size of 10 whole basketball courts combined side by side. Being a one-of-a-kind attraction that’s just crazy fun, it’s now become a favorite Zambales tourist spot.

Inflatable Island is essentially a big playground set above the open sea in Subic built for kids and kids-at-heart. From shaky bridges to the crowd favorite Tarzan swing, you’ll never run out of obstacles here. The biggest attraction yet? The gigantic unicorn that is just cuteness overload! 

And when you feel tired or in need of a break, you can plop down at the island’s pink or yellow bean bags. If you prefer to lay rest completely, they have a Sunflower Lounge area complete with pillows and a comfy mattress. Book an Inflatable Island Zambales Beach Resort Day Tour to experience the fun!

6. Hike Mt. Pinatubo 

Mt. Pinatubo is one of the top attractions in Central Luzon, covering not just Zambales but Pampanga and Tarlac as well. This active volcano can be explored by trekking and by riding 4x4 vehicles along its bumpy lahar roads. 

• Book a Mount Pinatubo tour

The trek and 4x4 ride will be worth it once you get to the crater lake, with its water varying in colors depending on the season, from blue-green to a deep blue. 

See our popular Mount Pinatubo Tours

Exciting 2-week history & adventure tour package to ilocos, mt. pinatubo, baguio & sagada, amazing 2-week heritage & scenic tour package to llocos, mt. pinatubo, baguio, sagada & bohol, exhilarating 10-day hiking adventure package to pampanga, cebu & baguio.

Nagsasa, Anawangin, and Talisayen all come from one fabric, sprinkled by the same volcanic ash. This humble cove in Zambales is the lesser-known stepsister of Nagsasa and Anawangin Cove, and often gets overlooked.

What sets Talisayen apart from its stepsisters is its peaceful, quiet, and more laidback atmosphere. This is one of the reasons why it appeals to a different type of travelers, often to those who are more into making their own trail and adventures.

Other than swimming and sunbathing, this cove serves as an excellent spot for stargazing. While there, challenge your friends to spot the brightest stars and constellations. It’s a fun way to spend the night! 

Camara Island is just 10-20 minutes off Pundaquit. It’s a rocky spot with a short stretch of sand that serves as a fantastic backdrop for taking pictures. 

It’s a small island that’s no bigger than the size of a football field. It may be humble in size, but it has an astonishing view of Pundaquit and its scenic mountains.

Overnight camping here is prohibited, and drinking isn’t allowed. Since it’s a relatively small island, the most exciting activity you can do here is snorkeling. The island is perfect as the first stop to your island-hopping tour in Zambales. 

Photo by El Kabayo Stables

El Kabayo is arguably the best place to learn and go horseback riding in the country. The establishment is tucked in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales and is home to healthy and friendly horses. 

The ranch is simply captivating with its well-kept lawns, huge ground space, and country-style building. The stables are supervised by Wildlife In Need, a non-government organization that specializes in animal care and welfare.

All proceeds acquired from the riding activities go straight to the care and well-being of the beautiful horses. You can avail of horseback riding lessons and a guided ride through the lush forest of El Kabayo falls.

Whether you’re keen for equestrian or simply want to hang out with horses, feel free to escape on horseback in El Kabayo Stables.

Zambales is home to the Philippine Carabao Mango. Pick and savor on some sweet mangoes at Rosa Farms. It’s a 12.5-hectare mango orchard situated along the National Highway in San Marcelino-San Antonio Boundary, Zambales. 

The mangoes, the herb garden, the swing, the country store, and the café - there’s so much goodness offered here. The farm has a “Pick & Pay” program, which lets guests pick mangoes straight from the trees. It’s perfect for mango-hungry kids and adults!

Go on a side trip and experience Zambales’ historical side with the beloved former Philippine President, Ramon Magsaysay’s ancestral house, in the town of Castillejos. The house was restored and converted into a museum back in 1990. 

The National Historical Institute reconstructed and renovated it in 1999 after it was severely destroyed by the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991.

The modest yet charming two-level structure contains memorabilia and some personal remembrance about the former president, such as pictures and medals. 

Some of Ramon Magsaysay’s sharp Barong Tagalogs are displayed in the historical site. You can also find his vintage Presidential car, the Willy Jeep, in the museum.

You should pay a quick trip here to find more about why Ramon Magsaysay was well admired and respected by the people. 

Established in 2000, Botolan Wildlife Farm is a highly rated wildlife sanctuary sitting in the heart of Botolan, Zambales. It’s a family-run sanctuary established in 2000, and is all funded and maintained by the generous family.

The animal ranch stretches to a 55,000-sqm area. The place serves as a habitat for a wide range of exotic animals and plants around the world. 

You’ll find rare species of animals there, like the Brahminy Kite (a now endangered bird), adorable owls, colorful birds, the Philippines’ Brown Deer, and a Siberian tiger among others.

You’ll never have to worry about falling short of things to do in Zambales. From island hopping in the Philippines to camping, horseriding, and mango-picking, Zambales assures you’ll have the best of adventures.

• Check out our list of affordable resorts near Manila

Whether you’re planning for a quick getaway with friends, family, your significant other, or by yourself, this coastal province will never disappoint. It might even surprise you in the most unsuspecting ways.

Call your travel buddies and start planning your much-needed vacation here in Zambales. Look into Zambales tours and activities that you can include in your itinerary. It’s high time that you pay attention to this true gem of a paradise in the Philippines.

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Zambales doubles tourist sites

IBA, Zambales — The provincial government of Zambales disclosed that it has has doubled the number of tourist spots in the last three years despite the travel restrictions brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. said that there are now 340 tourism-related establishments in Zambales, more than the 151 tourism-related establishments recorded in 2018 that include beach resorts and other nature-themed attractions.

Provincial Tourism Officer Tel Mora, on the other hand, said that the pandemic has provided these businesses to expand by creating open spaces where tourists can enjoy their time without having to violate any restrictions.

"Aside from beach hotels and restaurants that offer open-air dining, three other accommodation types had surfaced and became hugely popular in the last three years: pool resorts, farm resorts, and campsites," Mora said.

"These definitely helped local tourism to bounce back after an initial slowdown at the start of the pandemic," she added.

Mora said that from the record of 692,380 local arrivals and 62,761 foreign arrivals in 2019, Zambales tourism declined to just 71,552 local and 1,063 foreign arrivals in 2020.

But new attractions perked up the trend to 100,488 local and 3,340 foreign arrivals in 2021, and then to 503,161 domestic visitors and 17,130 foreign tourists from January to June this year.

Figures from the Zambales Provincial Tourism Office showed that in 2018 there were a total of 151 accommodation establishments that were composed of beach resorts, inland accommodations, hotels and lodges or inns.

Most of these were found in towns with active beach scenes: San Antonio, which had 31; Iba, 28; Candelaria, 16; Subic, 15; and San Narciso, 14.

In 2019, the total number increased to 231; then to 273 in 2020, and 317 in 2021, before further climbing to 340 as of August 2022.