Formally opened by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the forum brought together tourism ministers, senior officials, and industry leaders from across the ten ASEAN member states, as well as partners from beyond the region. In a message delivered by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, President Marcos framed tourism not merely as an engine of growth, but as a shared responsibility and a powerful connector between people.

“Tourism has always been more than an industry for ASEAN,” Marcos said. “It is a bridge between cultures, a pathway connecting our people, and a force that brings our region together.”

A symbolic opening in Cebu

The choice of Cebu as host city carries both symbolic and practical weight. Long regarded as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic tourism hubs, Cebu is also emerging as a key venue for international diplomacy. In addition to ATF 2026, the city is hosting the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat, reinforcing its role as a focal point for regional dialogue at the start of the year.

The opening ceremony at the Mactan Shrine underscored this symbolism. The site, associated with one of the defining moments in Philippine history, provided a fitting backdrop for discussions about shared identity, sovereignty, and cooperation in Southeast Asia. Delegates included tourism ministers from across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, with Timor-Leste participating as the bloc’s newest member. High-level representatives from China, India, and South Korea also attended, highlighting ASEAN’s expanding relevance on the global tourism stage.

Running concurrently with the forum is the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), which opened on 28 January at the newly launched Mactan Expo in Lapu-Lapu City. The trade show brings together sellers and buyers from across the region and beyond, providing a commercial counterpoint to the policy discussions taking place at ATF.

Pleased to host the Welcome Dinner for fellow #ASEAN Foreign Ministers in #Cebu, Philippines, featuring traditional Filipino dishes and music by renowned pianist Dr. Raul Sunico. Cebu’s rich history and culture make the “Queen City of the South” a fitting setting for fellowship… pic.twitter.com/FHVyJXMg6a

— Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro (@SecLazaro) January 28, 2026

Navigating the future together

ATF 2026 is anchored by the theme Navigating Our Future, Together, which reflects the Philippines’ broader vision for its ASEAN chairmanship. That vision is structured around five strategic priorities under the banner SAIL ASEAN: strengthening trade and investment linkages, accelerating digital transformation, integrating micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, leveraging the creative economy and innovation, and advancing sustainable and inclusive growth.

Among these, sustainable and inclusive growth has been positioned as the cornerstone of the Philippines’ approach. President Marcos emphasised that tourism policies must translate into real benefits for communities, particularly those directly involved in welcoming visitors.

In the Philippine context, he noted, tourism supports farmers, fisherfolk, creatives, transport providers, hospitality workers, and entrepreneurs. Ensuring that these groups benefit fairly from tourism development is not only a national priority but one that resonates across ASEAN.

A shared roadmap for 2026–2030

One of the most substantive outcomes associated with ATF 2026 is the launch of the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026–2030. Officially adopted during the ASEAN Tourism Conference, the plan sets out a unified roadmap for the region’s tourism development over the next five years.

Led by the Philippines as the coordinating country, the plan focuses on five priority areas: resilient tourism systems, empowerment of the tourism workforce, accessible and seamless travel, digital tourism transformation, and diversification of products, markets, and sustainable tourism offerings.

Progress under the plan will be tracked through a series of key performance indicators, including international arrivals, tourism receipts, per-visitor spending, and the share of intra-ASEAN travel. These benchmarks are aligned with ASEAN Vision 2045, reinforcing the long-term nature of the strategy.

According to ASEAN projections, Southeast Asia could welcome 201 million international arrivals by 2030, representing a 51 percent increase from 2025 levels. Targets also include at least 12 percent annual growth in intra-ASEAN travel and raising its share to between 40 and 45 percent of total arrivals.

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Hosting amid recalibration

For the Philippines, hosting ATF 2026 aligns with a phase of policy recalibration, with the Department of Tourism setting a realistic target of 6.7 million foreign visitors for 2026. International arrivals reached 5.9 million in 2024 and edged down to 5.6 million in 2025, below earlier expectations. South Korea remains the largest source market despite a notable decline, while the United States recorded moderate growth year on year.

Yet these headline figures sit alongside more resilient fundamentals. Domestic tourism continues to play a stabilising role, with the sector contributing 8.9 percent of national GDP in 2024. Industry analysts also point to improving conditions, including enhanced airport management, eased entry procedures, and new international routes, particularly linking the Philippines to Australia and the Middle East.

Significantly, the government has dramatically increased its international promotions budget for 2026 to 1.3 billion pesos, approximately 22 million US dollars. This twelvefold increase over the previous year underlines a renewed commitment to rebuilding international demand.

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Preparations for ATF 2026 alone are expected to bring more than a thousand delegates to Cebu, providing a short-term economic boost while reinforcing the country’s credentials as a host of high-profile international events.

As ASEAN looks ahead to the next phase of regional cooperation, the forum in Cebu marks an important moment in aligning tourism policy with broader economic and social goals. Singapore will assume the ASEAN chairmanship and host the ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2027.

L’article Cebu in the spotlight as ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 opens in the Philippines est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

From the moment I entered the church, the atmosphere felt different. There was music, colour, and an extraordinary sense of togetherness. Foreign guests were welcomed as naturally as family members. After the Mass, an a cappella concert followed, performed by Song Weavers Philippines, a vocal ensemble under the umbrella of the renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers. Their harmonies filled the church with joy and emotion, at times deeply moving, at times uplifting, always sincere.

Addressing the audience, Ambassador Jaime Victor B. Ledda captured the spirit of the evening with a simple yet telling remark: “The Philippines has the longest Christmas celebration in the world.” It was more than a statement. It was a reflection of lived tradition.

A Christmas that begins in September

In the Philippines, Christmas does not wait for December. It begins with the so-called Ber months of September, October, November, and December. As early as September, Christmas songs start playing in shopping centres, star-shaped lanterns known as parols appear in homes and streets, and a quiet sense of anticipation begins to build.

This extended festive season is rooted in faith, history, and community. Catholicism, introduced during centuries of Spanish colonial influence, blended naturally with Filipino values centred on family and togetherness. The result is a Christmas season unlike any other, stretching from early September until well after the New Year.

Simbang Gabi and spiritual preparation

At the heart of the Filipino Christmas lies Simbang Gabi, a novena of nine dawn Masses beginning on 16 December and culminating on Christmas Eve. Also known as Misa de Gallo, these early morning services start as early as four or five o’clock, a tradition dating back to colonial times when farmers needed to attend Mass before heading to the fields.

Churches during Simbang Gabi become vibrant community spaces, filled with light, music, and conversation. Outside, the scent of traditional rice cakes fills the air. Puto Bumbong, made from purple glutinous rice steamed in bamboo tubes, and Bibingka, baked in clay pots lined with banana leaves, are an essential part of the experience.

There is also a popular belief that completing all nine Masses may bring a special blessing. Whether or not one believes it, the shared commitment and sense of community remain powerful.

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Music that carries tradition across borders

The Brussels concert offered a vivid illustration of how Filipino traditions travel wherever the community settles. Song Weavers Philippines is composed of 14 singers capable of producing more than 25 different vocal parts, performing a cappella entirely. Their European tour has been bringing Filipino music and identity to audiences across the continent.

Airine Abuyuan Villaroman, who was responsible for bringing the group to Brussels, explained how such initiatives came about. “This has been my husband’s and my project since 2003,” she said. “When Filipino artists are in Europe, we host them, organise concerts and usually ask for donations so they can continue supporting projects in the Philippines, such as music education and voice training.”

Their repertoire in Brussels included Christmas carols, classical pieces, and religious music, reflecting the diversity of Filipino musical heritage.

A Christmas that never really ends

For Airine, the idea of the world’s longest Christmas is deeply personal. “I grew up opening Christmas lights in my own home starting on the first of September,” she recalled. “When we moved to Belgium, we kept that tradition. My husband puts out Christmas lights every year from September until after the Three Kings in January.”

She added with a smile that their home had once been featured in the local newsletter for being the earliest decorated house. “We remove everything only after the Three Kings. That is when Christmas really ends for us.”

From Noche Buena to Media Noche

Christmas Eve culminates in Noche Buena, the traditional midnight feast shared after Mass. Families gather around tables filled with dishes reflecting both Spanish influence and local flavours. Lechon, hamon, queso de bola, leche flan, and fruit salads are common, enjoyed late into the night.

The celebrations continue into the New Year with Media Noche, another midnight feast welcoming prosperity and good fortune. Tables are often decorated with round fruits symbolising abundance for each month of the coming year, while noise, fireworks, and laughter are believed to drive away bad spirits.

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A Christmas that welcomes everyone

What stood out most during that Sunday in Brussels was not only the beauty of the music or the richness of the traditions, but the openness of the Filipino community. The Filipino Christmas is expansive by nature. It welcomes neighbours, friends, and strangers alike.

From dawn Masses to midnight feasts, from lanterns glowing in September to decorations taken down after the Three Kings, Christmas in the Philippines is not measured in days but in shared moments. It is long because it makes space for faith, joy, and human connection.

Standing in a Brussels church, far from Manila yet deeply connected to its spirit, it became clear that Christmas in the Philippines is more than a celebration. It is a way of life.

L’article From Brussels to Manila: experiencing the world’s longest Christmas est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Historical research presented through a student-led exhibition

Professor Isabelle Parmentier, who leads the Philippine Studies Programme, welcomed attendees and explained how the exhibition fits within a broader research project at the university. She expressed her appreciation for the support of Senator Loren Legarda and thanked the Embassy of the Philippines for its close collaboration.

Professor Parmentier highlighted that the exhibition is also part of a third-year cultural history course designed to help students engage with history through curatorial and public-facing work. She praised the eleven students for their initiative, teamwork, and creativity in developing the content.

The exhibition presents six historical moments illustrating Belgian-Philippine connections. These include periods of shared sovereignty under the Spanish crown, as well as lesser-known episodes such as King Leopold II’s early interest in the Philippines before shifting his ambitions to the Congo. The selection was guided by available documentation and the extensive archival resources of the university, including rare materials loaned by the university library.

Several works by Belikha, a Brussels-based collective of Filipino artists, are also featured, offering contemporary visual interpretations of José Rizal and his continuing influence.

Ambassador highlights cultural ties and upcoming diplomatic milestones

Philippine Ambassador Jaime Victor B. Ledda emphasised the exhibition’s role in deepening mutual understanding. “This exhibit celebrates Philippine culture and how it has been linked to Belgium from the sixteenth century to the present. It is also what the Philippine Studies Programme is all about, celebrating Philippine culture across the world and bridging cultures across time,” he said during the opening.

He noted that 2025 marks the 135^th anniversary of José Rizal’s stay in Belgium and the 129^th anniversary of his martyrdom. These events, he explained, remain central to the cultural and historical connection between the two countries.

Looking towards 2026, Ambassador Ledda highlighted that next year will mark 80 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and the Philippines. A series of cultural events will take place across Belgium, coordinated with the Belgian Embassy in Manila, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties. The University of Namur will contribute through two initiatives: a film and discussion evening centred on the documentary Overseas in February 2026, and the publication of a forthcoming book on Rizal’s time in Belgium.

Exhibition information

The exhibition is hosted at the Business and Learning Centre in Namur. It runs from 4 December to 12 December from 1.00 to 5.00 pm, from 13 December to 1 February by appointment, and from 2 February to 5 February from 1.00 to 5.00 pm. It is closed on Sundays. 

L’article University of Namur opens exhibition exploring the shared history of Belgium and the Philippines est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Over the past 16 years, the MSC Group and UNICEF have worked together on multiple occasions, generating $17 million in cumulative contributions. On 1 December 2025, the two organisations announced the next phase of their partnership: The Learning Bridge.

“Together, we have shown how innovation rooted in shared purpose can help to transform children’s lives. This new programme in the Philippines is especially meaningful to us because many MSC employees and crew members who inspire our mission come from this country, reflecting both our partnership with UNICEF and our support for the communities that our people call home”, stated Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the MSC Group’s Cruise Division and Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee.

Multiple goals and tactics

Over the next three years, the programme will attempt to transform education and learning for some 400,000 children in the Philippines, more specifically in Mindanao, the second largest island of the Philippines. On the island, poverty, past conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic have led to the country’s lowest school enrolment and literacy rates. Moreover, frequent extreme weather events, inadequate facilities, limited resources, and a lack of qualified teachers continue to widen the learning gap for children and adolescents on the island. 

The Learning Bridge will make use of multiple tactics to tackle the issue, designed specifically for their sustainability and national scalability. 

• In the Caraga Region, a climate-smart floating school will ensure uninterrupted learning for children in flood-prone areas, serving as a model for climate-resilient education infrastructure. Local teachers will receive training in learning recovery strategies, including targeted tutoring and teaching at the right level. 
• In BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), The Learning Bridge will support early childhood education and learning recovery through teacher training, play-based learning methods, and curriculum innovation. The programme aims to improve school readiness, to increase enrolment, and to enhance foundational skills in literacy and numeracy.

“Education is crucial for children to break intergenerational cycles of inequality and poverty and build brighter futures. We are grateful for the MSC Foundation’s renewed support that will enable us, together with the Government and local communities, to deliver innovative and scalable solutions to improve vulnerable children’s access to quality education, including those on the frontline of the climate crisis”, said Kitty Van der Heijden, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director.

Some of the project’s key interventions include strengthening community-based disaster preparedness, investing in digital learning, and providing essential resources and expertise to put regional initiatives into practice. 

By fostering resilient educational systems and empowering children with essential skills, The Learning Bridge aligns with the Philippines’ National Development Plan, promoting lifelong learning. The partnership between MSCF and UNICEF is proof of how the private sector can support the work of UNICEF and government partners in finding solutions that will lead to long-term economic and social progress.

L’article MSC Foundation and UNICEF join forces to transform education for 400,000 children in the Philippines  est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

UNESCO has recognised gems such as six World Heritage Sites and one Global Geopark in the Philippines, among them idyllic beaches and biodiverse reefs, but also habitats as diverse as traditionally engineered rice terraces or underground rivers and karst systems, alongside historic cities that evoke the Philippines’ colonial past.

Colonial fusion

Arriving in Manila, tourists can immediately latch on to the Baroque Churches trail. The archipelago’s Baroque churches were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites three decades ago, acknowledged for their blend of European architectural styles and Filipino construction methods. While in the capital, tick off San Agustin from the list, the oldest stone church in the country.

@art_histbuff San Agustin Church, in Intramuros, Manila, is the best example of Baroque architecture in the country. It is known as the oldest stone church daying back to 1585-1607. It is also one of the four Baroque churches declared UNESCO as world heritage site. #fyp #baroque #history #church #catholic ♬ original sound – 2000smodels

Otherworldly landscapes

Another must-see is the extraordinary Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordillera, described by the Philippine Department of Tourism as “a remarkable testament to human engineering and cultural tradition” and offering the visitor stunning mountain views. The terraces date back over 2,000 years in the Ifugao rugged region of northern Luzon, illustrating the local sustainable relationship with nature via a sophisticated irrigation system whose extent, it’s said, could encircle the globe eight times.

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For a different kind of architecture of the Gods, it has to be Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, an expanse of 1,200 haycock shaped hills that stun in every season. The protected forests of the UNESCO Global Geopark here are home to the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier. And another otherworldly realm takes shape in Bohol’s mystical caves, such as impressive Hinagdanan, whose underground lakes and stalactite formations are worth discovering.

@yourfavoriteshot Who would’ve thought the place I used to color in books would come to life right in front of me & now, it feels so good to finally see it in real life… with all its colors.#iphone #iphone16promax #bohol #chocolatehills #philippines #travel #fyp #summer #summervibes ♬ Multo – Cup of Joe

Historic City of Vigan

The historic city of Vigan, located in Ilocos Sur, will charm visitors with its Spanish colonial atmosphere, cobbled streets, and centuries-old artistic culture and craftsmanship. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, it boasts some of the best-preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture in Asia. For those on the Baroque churches treasure hunt, Santa Maria can also be found in Ilocos Sur, with an unusual fortress-like location.

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Subterranean beauty

As well as the afore-mentioned Hinagdanan Cave, for those who love adventuring in the beyond, there’s Palawan’s Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The park is not only within reach of diving destinations such as the UNESCO-recognised Tubbataha Reef or World War II shipwrecks, but has itself been a designated UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site since 1999. Through impressive karst formations, this underground river system winds over eight kilometres to the sea. Above ground, lush rainforests and rich wildlife make the park “a paradise for nature lovers,” DOT says.

@rabadiboni Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park #puertoprincesa #palawan #philippines ♬ green to blue (Sped Up) – Aurenth

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature is also the order of the day at the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary on Mindanao, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. Exceptional flora and fauna unfold across 20,000 hectares in this sanctuary of misty forests and mountain meadows. It’s a chance to see one of the world’s largest flowering plants, the Rafflesia, and majestic in the skies, the Philippine eagle.

@dean_kirby Mt. Hamiguitan doesn’t try to impress; it simply exists as it always has. It doesn’t try to welcome you, instead, you have to meet it on its terms like any mountain should. This isn’t a mountain for beginners, and I wouldn’t even call it "friendly." But it’s honest. It's wild in the way nature is meant to be. Mt. Hamiguitan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ASEAN Heritage Park, and rightfully so. It’s not just a mountain — it’s a reminder of what sustainable tourism should look like: untouched, protected, and respected. #mthamiguitan #unescoworldheritage #aseanheritagepark #davaooriental #Hiking #Outdoors #unseenphilippines #naturetherapy #silentfilm #sony #zve1 #davinciresolve #colorgrade #fyp ♬ original sound – Dean Kirby

New sites in the offing?

The Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) confirmed to Travel Tomorrow that eight more submissions have been put forward to UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage sites, each candidate “steeped in cultural, historical, and natural significance representing the diverse and profound heritage of the Philippines,” DOT Attaché Dakila F. Gonzales said.

Taal Volcano and its caldera lake form one of the strongest submissions, Gonzales said, calling the area a rare example of the geological interplay between an active volcano in a crater lake in shaping vibrant ecosystems and communities.

L’article Must-see UNESCO treasures of the Philippines est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Two years into the islands’ latest tourism development plan, Travel Tomorrow sat down with the Mission of the Philippines to the EU’s Ambassador Jaime Victor H. Ledda and Tourism Attaché Dakila F. Gonzales to discuss their favourite diving spots and other recommendations.

1. Combine Baroque Manila with macro diving in Anilao

The Baroque Churches of the Philippines have been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Their architecture lends insight into the nation’s European colonial past but is fused with local materials such as wood and coral stone. Visitors arriving in Manila can see the notable example of San Agustin, then travel just three hours by bus (for less than €5) or a couple of hours by taxi (around €40) for an underwater treasure hunt in Anilao, the world capital of nudibranchs, and nearby Mabini and Batangas, where the fascinating and colourful world of macro diving awaits.

@riccciarevalo Quick dive in Anilao last week. Water was ice cold and cloudy. Don’t go diving in feb #freediving #batangas #philippines #leaderfins ♬ Somewhere Only We Know – Gustixa & Rhianne

2. Historic Subic Bay, Zambales

If larger-scale underwater discoveries are more the attraction, also near Manila, Subic Bay presents historic aircraft and shipwrecks and a view of the Philippines as a crucial world war battleground. Take the USS New York, which hit water in 1891 as the fastest armoured cruiser in the world and was scuttled 50 years later in 1941, to prevent her falling to the invading Japanese. Similarly, the World War II freighter El Capitan’s final resting place is nearby and shallower, suitable for all ability levels.

@sunridgesubic We can’t think of a better time to spend some time underwater and stay cool in this weather. Book a stay with us & receive the best for dive site recos! #sunridgesubic #subicbay #subicbayfreeportzone #scubadiving #subicdiving ♬ Bossa Nova / cafe / food comfortable with a guitar – MATSU

3. Combine sea turtles, coral and muck-diving with trekking the Chocolate Hills on Bohol and Balicasag

The island of Bohol has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2012. Here, the visitor can trek the Chocolate Hills, a collection of nearly 1,200 nearly symmetrical mounds that change colour seasonally from green to brown. In protected forests, the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier, thrives. Just one adventure might involve kayaking downriver, marvelling in mystical caves like Hinagdanan, at underground lakes and stalactites, and then diving just offshore to spy out the seahorses or explore a kilometres-long reef. Meanwhile, just nine kilometres away, the further dive spot of Balicasag is renowned for its sea turtles and marine sanctuary.

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4. Design, thresher sharks, and thousands of sardines on Cebu

Just a two-hour ferry journey from Bohol Island is the central Philippine destination of Cebu. Cebu City is a UNESCO design destination, known for its furniture, arts, crafts, and fashion (and, for visitors on the Baroque trail, offers the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, allegedly the oldest church in the country). Touring the island will also unlock one of the planet’s most mesmerising marine sights: Moalboal’s iconic, year-round sardine run. Occurring only metres offshore, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is accessible to beginners, snorkelers, and divers. The sardines’ breathtaking, silvery, synchronised patterns might be one of the best ways to fall in love with diving – an activity Attaché Dakila F. Gonzales described to Travel Tomorrow as “incredibly sexy.” And over on the eastern side of Cebu, lies Malapascua, one of the only places in the world where thresher sharks can regularly be seen. From here, visitors can access both a historic shrine, the mangroves of the Olango reserve, and the world-class scuba diving of Mactan.

@keejayvalenzona Proof that Cebu is the country’s top island destination. Featuring: 1. Kawasan Falls, Badian 2. Malapascua, Daanbantayan 3. Osmeña Peak, Dalaguete 4. Whale Shark Watching, Oslob 5. Tumalog Falls, Oslob 6. Camotes Islands 7. Mantayupan Falls, Barili 8. Sirao, Cebu City Comment down your favorite spot in the island. #Cebu #Philippines Colorgraded in @VN Video Editor DJI Mini 3 Pro @DJI Philippines ♬ Baianá – Bakermat

5. The biodiversity and shipwrecks of Palawan, Coron Bay, and the Tubbataha Reefs

It would be remiss not to mention Palawan’s UNESCO-listed Tubbataha Reefs, whose clear waters boast one of the best intact reef systems in Asia, alive with biodiversity, including sharks and rays. Like a ski resort that offers fun for a wide range of ability levels, it’s an exciting marine sports opportunity that blends beginner-friendly corals with a unique collection of World War II shipwrecks, sunk by the US in 1944 in Coron Bay, suitable for more seasoned divers. As well as the ships’ ghostly suspended bridges and walkways, valves and gears, machine rooms and anti-aircraft guns, underwater explorers can encounter an array of marine residents, including star puffers, barrel sponges, and lionfish.

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6. Remote and pristine Southern Leyte

To the east of Bohol and Cebu, in the Eastern Visayas, a series of more remote and less touristic dive sites will reward those prepared to take a longer journey. From November to May, pristine Sogod Bay offers the awe-inspiring chance to swim in a controlled, marine-protected environment with whale sharks – a gentle giant that is the world’s largest known fish species. Padre Burgos is described by some as the Philippines’ best-kept secret, and Limasawa Island, the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines, offers romantic small coves, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Scuba diving Sogod Bay Southern Leyte Philippines pic.twitter.com/LQbpQg3T5U

— Sogod Bay Scuba Resort (@SogodBay) April 4, 2025

With thousands of islands, it isn’t hard to understand how the Philippines rates so highly among divers and travellers from around the world, and is still able to offer a warm welcome on land and at sea to those who are yet to discover this award-winning destination.

L’article Dive into the Philippines: Six of its best sites est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The Philippine movie was screened at Bozar in Brussels for the 19^th International Film Festival for Young Audiences, Filem’On. Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, Sunshine explores universal topics focusing on health, religion, and women’s rights.

The production attracted a diverse audience, including diplomats, students, cinema enthusiasts, members of the Philippine diaspora in Brussels, and members of the festival jury.

“We are so happy that a Filipino film has been selected to participate in this, the 19^th Filem’On International Film Festival for Young Audiences,” said Pablito A. Mendoza, Deputy Head of Post and Consul General at the Embassy of the Philippines to Belgium and Luxembourg.

Sunshine: A critically acclaimed production

For this year’s edition, Filem’On chose the theme “Boundless,” challenging the boundaries of the global society of the 21^st century. In a world where anyone can move freely and meet across national borders, people often challenge their perception of identity and who they are. This year’s selection embodies that idea, with Sunshine being the perfect example: a local story that depicts cross-border issues.

The movie, which premiered in 2024, has won and been nominated for multiple awards.  “Sunshine is a film that won the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the 75^th Berlin International Film Festival, the Narrative Feature Jury Award and Narrative Feature Audience Award at the Austin Asian American Film Festival,” noted Mendoza. Besides this, the film has participated in the Toronto International Film Festival, the Palm Springs International Film Festival, the San Diego Filipino Film Festival, and the New York Asian Film Festival.

“I understand that Sunshine is in competition for the CIFEJ Award, which is given by the International Centre for Children and Youth Film – Centre International du Film pour l’Enfance et la Jeunesse (CIFEJ), an international organization dedicated to films for and by young people. We wish Sunshine the best of luck,” Mendoza concluded. Jury members of the CIFEJ award who attended the screening are Monica Wahi, curator, creative producer, and acquisition consultant; Anis Lassoued, director and producer at Lumière Films, and Andrey Hadjivasilev, director and producer at Revive Vision.

A story about women’s rights and resilience

The powerful drama successfully depicts the struggles of a teenager whose dreams are threatened by pregnancy. Maris Racal, in the role of Sunshine – the protagonist – does a marvellous job depicting the fears, helplessness, and determination of the young woman.

Racal shifts from misery to happiness in seconds, delivering not only an artistic performance but also an emotional journey of hope and despair. The narrative skilfully guides viewers through contemporary Philippine society and how the issue portrayed in the movie is being tackled not only by teenagers but also by adults.

Jadaone plunges into the unjust situation facing the main character, the prejudice, once people find out about Sunshine’s situation and the illegal actions taken to escape what had happened. But the director does not stop there. She briefly touches upon other issues in the country – inadequate hospital facilities, ignorance in disadvantaged communities, and leniency towards familial child abuse.

The film led to a deep discussion that raised questions about taboo and truth while shedding light on the viewers’ reflections.

Audience reactions

At the end of the screening, the moviegoers entered a discussion about the film’s meaning and background. One viewer was particularly curious about the context of the production and its reception. “In the Philippines, abortion is illegal, but what do locals think about it, and is it screened there?” they asked.

This question was answered by another spectator who was born and raised in Manila, in the Philippines. “The movie was screened first at international film festivals because the production team knew they would get a lot of pushback,” they said. The film crew relied on the acknowledgement it received internationally, which eventually brought it to the big screen in the Philippines. “It was a blockbuster success in the first two weeks,” they concluded.

Despite the potential pushback, another person from the crowd explained that Sunshine was “screened in the House of Representatives and in front of members of Congress,” noting that those who attended the event had “a positive” reaction to the film.

Several attendees from the Philippines confirmed that the movie truthfully depicts the reality in the country and the issues women face. “I appreciate the accuracy in terms of how some scenes were portrayed,” one said, highlighting the film’s authentic portrayal of societal challenges.

Filem’On will run until 5 November 2025, with a variety of screenings held at Bozar, Galeries, Cinematek, Kinograph, and other locations across Brussels.

L’article Filipino film Sunshine captivates Brussels with a bold story on women’s rights est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The evening unfolded like a feast of flavours and stories. Hosted by Ambassador Jaime Victor Ledda, the event celebrated Filipino gastronomy and the legacy of Mama Sita. I was fortunate to meet Clara Reyes-Lapus, one of Mama Sita’s daughters, whose words painted a vivid picture of her mother’s life and mission. Listening to her and tasting traditional dishes like adobo, caldereta and the irresistible rice champorado, I realised that what Mama Sita achieved went far beyond food. She built a bridge between generations, between islands, and between the Philippines and the world.

A legacy born from family and faith

Teresita “Mama Sita” Reyes was born in Manila in 1917 into a family that would define Filipino cuisine for more than a century. Her mother, Doña Engracia “Aling Asiang” Reyes, founded the Aristocrat Restaurant, a Manila landmark that elevated home cooking to restaurant quality and became a Sunday tradition for families of every background. Ambassador Ledda himself recalled, “My mom and dad got married at Malate Church. I was baptised there, and every Sunday we would go to Aristocrat to celebrate family day. That tradition continues to this day.”

From this foundation, Mama Sita grew up immersed in the aromas of native dishes and the values of hospitality and hard work. She learned early that food was not only sustenance but a language of love, gratitude, and nationhood. Though she travelled widely and tasted cuisines from around the world, she remained convinced that Filipino food could stand among the best. Her conclusion was both simple and visionary: Philippine flavours deserved to be known everywhere.

The entrepreneurial heart of Filipino flavour

In the years following the Second World War, Mama Sita raised eleven children through food ventures that mixed creativity with resilience. She revived her mother’s old canteen, sold local sweets in schools, and eventually developed ready-to-use mixes that brought Filipino classics like kare-kare, adobo, and sinigang to home cooks everywhere. These mixes did more than simplify recipes; they empowered Filipinos abroad to recreate the tastes of home, preserving identity across oceans.

During our conversation in Brussels, Clara Reyes-Lapus described how her mother’s mission continues through the Mama Sita Foundation, which she now leads. “My role is to see to it that there are ingredients and that farmers get to plant what is needed,” she explained. “Otherwise, you don’t get the taste. As much as possible, we want to source from the Philippines, but sometimes it’s difficult.”

Behind every jar of sauce or packet of seasoning lies an invisible chain of communities of farmers, traders and chefs who keep culinary heritage alive. The Mama Sita Foundation works to protect this chain, supporting local agriculture and promoting sustainable farming so that the authentic flavours of the archipelago endure.

A culture written in recipes

Culinary historian Felice Prudente Sta. Maria, author of When Mangoes and Olives Met at the Philippine Table, calls Teresita Reyes “an essential chapter in Philippine food history.” Through her research and writing, Sta. Maria has documented how Filipino cuisine reflects centuries of encounters, indigenous, Chinese, Spanish, and American, yet has remained distinctly Filipino. The richness of these influences is not a dilution of identity but its expression.

When I mentioned the idea of Filipino food as “fusion cuisine,” Clara smiled and gently corrected me. “We don’t like to label it that way,” she said. “We mix and match because of our history, but we have made it our own, distinctly our own.” Her words echoed in my mind as I tasted kare-kare, a thick peanut stew traditionally served during fiestas. It is a dish that demands patience and care, peanuts roasted and ground by hand, and, as Clara explained, “When you have a fiesta and you don’t have kare-kare, people get angry.” Food, here, is emotion, memory, and respect.

The taste of history: Rice champorado

Among all the dishes I tasted that evening, one stood out: the rice champorado. Humble yet profoundly symbolic, it captures the Philippines’ long dialogue with the world. Culinary historian Felice Sta. Maria described it beautifully in a recorded presentation: “Rice is such an important component in Philippine culinary heritage. Our ancestors believed that every grain had a soul, that it had to be honoured and never wasted.”

The champorado mix produced by the Mama Sita Foundation uses balatinao rice, an heirloom variety from the Cordillera highlands in northern Luzon, and cacao from Davao. Sta. Maria traced the story of how this combination came to be. The Spanish missionaries, she explained, brought chocolate to the Philippines from Mexico between 1650 and 1700. At first it was a bitter drink used to stay awake during long hours of prayer. Filipinos soon sweetened it and made it their own, blending it with rice instead of corn to create what is now champorado, a dish that carries within it the memory of the Manila–Acapulco galleons, the Mayan emperor Montezuma, and the devotion of Filipino farmers.

As I tasted the warm, dark bowl of champorado that night, I could feel that history on the spoon, the sweetness of the cacao, the earthiness of the rice, the quiet pride of a culture that has always found joy in transformation.

Food as diplomacy and preservation

Events like the one at the Philippine Embassy are not merely culinary showcases. They are acts of cultural diplomacy, reaffirming how food can unite people across borders. In Brussels, among ambassadors, journalists, and food lovers, Filipino cuisine became a living ambassador of its own. The generosity of the dishes mirrored the warmth of the people serving them.

Ambassador Ledda captured this sentiment in his closing words: “Thank you so much for sharing the story of Teresita Reyes. You are inspiring all of us right now. Mabuhay Filipinas, Mabuhay Filipino cuisine.” It was more than a toast; it was a declaration of continuity.

For Clara Reyes-Lapus and her siblings, the mission continues. They know that defending culinary heritage is not only about preserving recipes but ensuring that farmers, artisans, and cooks can sustain their livelihoods. “We must make sure the ingredients survive,” Clara told me. “Otherwise, the taste disappears.”

A nation told through its kitchen

The story of Mama Sita and her descendants is, in many ways, the story of the Philippines itself, resilient, generous, and inventive. From the family kitchens of Manila to Filipino restaurants in Europe and North America, her legacy endures wherever someone stirs a pot of sinigang or pours hot chocolate over rice.

As I left the embassy that evening, I realised that Filipino cuisine is more than a collection of recipes. It is a chronicle written in flavours, a dialogue between past and present, a reminder that to cook is to remember.

Mama Sita once believed that Filipino food could stand among the best in the world. Today, through the foundation that bears her name, her dream has become a movement, one that preserves, celebrates, and proudly shares the heritage of a nation through its most universal language: food.

L’article How Mama Sita turned Filipino cuisine into a story of heritage and pride est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

An official launch date has yet to be announced, but the Philippines News Agency (PNA) reports that the programme could be implemented within the next two months, just in time for the northern hemisphere summer travel season.

Visa requirements

The visa has already been approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and will be open to applicants who are at least 18 years old, hold valid health insurance, have a clean criminal record, and earn a minimum annual income of €24,000. It will only be granted to citizens of countries with which the Philippines has reciprocal visa agreements.

DNV applications will be fully processed online, reflecting the government’s broader efforts to modernise its services and improve accessibility to foreign guests. And with multiple government agencies involved – the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Bureau of Immigration, the Department of Tourism and the Bureau of Internal Revenue – the country is gearing up for a smooth rollout.

PCO Usec. Claire Castro highlights gov't move to allow remote workers from around the world to apply to stay up to a year in the Philippines with the new Digital Nomad Visa.#RP1News #RadyoPilipinas #RadyoPubliko

— Radyo Pilipinas (@radyopilipinas1) April 28, 2025

What is in it for the Philippines?

Tourism secretary Christina Frasco has described the programme as a strategic tool for long-term tourism development. ‘Allowing digital nomads the opportunity to stay longer in the country, will spur tourism activities and increase visitor spending,’ she noted. By attracting longer-staying remote workers, the Philippines hopes to stabilise tourism flows throughout the year and enrich local communities through cultural exchanges.

This is the Philippines:

– 0% tax on foreign income for non-citizens
– Over 90% of population speaks English
– New digital nomad visa in 2025

Tropical paradise for expats PLUS it's a hidden tax haven.

Here are 7 reasons why the “Pearl of the Orient” should be on your radar: pic.twitter.com/uEjHHsHFiV

— Alessandro Palombo (@thealepalombo) February 3, 2025

A booming global trend

The digital nomad population is rapidly expanding. There are currently 35 million digital nomads, up from 10.9 million in 2020 – a number projected to reach the staggering 60 million by 2030. These remote workers contribute to an estimated $787 billion to the global economy each year, with most digital nomads earning at least $50,000 annually, and 35% of them between $100,000 and $250,000.

Currently, 40% of countries offering DNVs do not require digital nomads to pay additional taxes, and 17% have no minimum income threshold.

Why choose the Philippines?

More than 50% of countries across the globe now offer some form of DNV, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Competition is intensifying, but the Philippines is uniquely positioned to stand out: English is widely spoken in the country, with the majority of Filipino adults fluent in the language; internet penetration is around 90% – a key requirement for digital nomads – ; the cost of living remains comparatively low.

From workspaces in urban centres like Cebu to beaches with fast Wi-Fi in Siargo, the country offers an ideal environment for remote workers.

‘With our unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and the warmth of the Filipino people, the Philippines stands ready to welcome digital nomads to travel, work, and thrive across our islands,’ Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco told the PNA.

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Regional context

The Philippines joins a growing list of countries in Asia with similar programmes, including South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Türkiye, Thailand and Kazakhstan, all of which launched their versions in 2024. While Japan targets high-income nomads earning at least €62,860/year with six-month DNVs Türkiye has set its income threshold at €33,800. Kazakhstan’s ‘Neo-Nomad Visa’, emphasising the country’s nomadic roots, projects potential earnings of €6.7 million by attracting IT professionals.

As the global race for digital nomads accelerates, the Philippines is positioning itself as a strong contender, with its strength rooted not just in policy, but in people and unique environment.

L’article Philippines joins Asia’s digital nomad wave with new remote work visa est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

During the closing ceremony of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025 in Malaysia, the Philippines formally accepted to host the 2026 edition of the event. At the Johor International Convention Center, Philippines Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco formally accepted that hosting duty from this year’s host, Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing. 

“As the Philippines takes on the Chairmanship of ASEAN 2026, I invite you to join us in the Philippines for the 29^th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu on January 2026. It will be an opportunity not just to discuss policies, but to witness firsthand the immense potential for sustainable tourism growth in the region,” Secretary Frasco said. 

As the host of the tourism forum, the Philippines will also organise preparatory events in Manila and Boracay, different ASEAN meetings and the TRAVEX trade show.

“The Philippines, with its spirit of hospitality and deep sense of community, stands ready to open its pristine shores to all of you, where we will write a new chapter of the ASEAN story: a legacy of unity, sustainability, and prosperity for all”, Frasco continued.

During the Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, Frasco also spoke about the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) 2026-2030 as the lead country coordinator. That plan promotes a sustainable and resilient region through stronger cooperation, according to a press statement by ASEAN. ASEAN member states Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Timor Leste and Vietnam were present during the meeting, as were representatives from Russia, Japan, India and South Korea.

“The ATSP envisions a tourism landscape that not only stimulates economic progress but does so in a manner that is equitable and sustainable. Our focus extends beyond quantity to quality – prioritising convenience and safety in tourism, promoting longer stays and increased spending, all while safeguarding our natural resources and honouring our heritage and culture,” said Secretary Frasco. “United by a shared vision for the mutual prosperity of our nations, we perpetuate the notion that tourism is a force for good: transforming lives, sustaining livelihoods, forging friendships, creating memories etched in the hearts of all who come upon our streets and shores.”

L’article Philippines to host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.