As a travel content creator and someone conscious of my health, having the right gear is essential to keep me going and motivated. From exploring rugged mountain trails to diving into the depths of the ocean, I need devices that not only enhance my adventures but can also keep up with my active lifestyle. Introducing the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra – the latest flagship smartwatch – which has quickly become a must-have in my travel arsenal.



Ever since I started wearing smartwatches, it has been one of the accessories I don't leave home without. I love how it tracks my health stats and keeps my day organized. But when I got my hands on the new Galaxy Watch Ultra,  it was an enjoyable experience wearing it, and a watch I would use moving forward.


Rugged Design That Doesn’t Compromise Style


One thing I appreciate about the Galaxy Watch Ultra is its rugged yet sleek design plus a new cushion design adds an extra layer of protection which Samsung boasts to be its toughest smartwatch yet.



The watch also fits comfortably because of the Dynamic Lug System. I can wear it all day, whether I’m walking through a busy city, working from home, or going on to my next adventure, it never feels bulky or uncomfortable.


Plus, the 47mm size and the stylish colors: Titanium Gray, Titanium White, and Titanium Silver—offer a polished look that complements adventure gear and everyday outfits.



You can even change the straps and choose a range of band options for all terrains.



Performance In Any Adventure

It sports a Titanium Grade 4 frame and 10ATM water resistance making it perfect for all kinds of adventures, whether swimming in the ocean or hiking up a mountain.


The smartwatch is also equipped with an impact-ready cushion design which is a lifesaver for those who are clumsy. I tripped from my last hike and the watch looks like it survived the fall.


The Galaxy Watch Ultra can also withstand from -20°C to 55°C heat. It thrives in the heat, adapts to both dark and sunlit environments, and assists in plotting your path - letting you navigate through different landscapes with ease. And when things get gritty, it just keeps going.


The Galaxy Watch Ultra's stand-out feature is its durability. The watch can still function at altitudes from 500 meters below sea level to 9,000 meters high which is perfect for adventure seekers like me who enjoy activities like diving and high-altitude trekking. I recently hiked at Mt. Kalisungan, practiced freediving at my local deep pool near my area, and did a couple of reps at the gym, and the Multi-sports tile made it easy to log everything in one place.



The Functional Threshold Power (FTP) feature is useful for all you cycling enthusiasts. It accurately measures maximum cycling power in just 4 minutes with AI-powered FTP metrics to unlock full potential based on indicators unique to you.


The Galaxy Watch Ultra also provides an advanced Personalized HR Zone, so you can work out at optimal intensity levels based on your physical capabilities. 


Quick Access, Long Battery Life


As a content creator, I’m always doing a lot of things such as filming, navigating, and keeping track of time. The new Quick Button on the Galaxy Watch Ultra allows me to jump into action without missing a beat. With just one press, I can start recording a workout, access my maps, or switch to any other function I need.



Plus, the added Emergency Siren feature is a nifty feature, especially when I’m exploring remote locations alone. You never know if you need help when you're in trouble.


The battery life is pretty impressive as well. It can last up to 100 hours in Power Saving mode and 48 hours in Exercise Power Saving mode. Whether you're travelling for days or just staying at home, you don't have to worry about recharging the watch.


Readable, No Matter the Conditions


If you encounter different lighting conditions, you won't have a problem reading and checking out your stats. The Night Mode automatically kicks in when it gets dark, making it easy to check out the time, and your stats, or just setting up your goals in the watch. The 3,000-nit peak brightness ensures I can see the display even in different lighting conditions from a bright sunny day to a dark evening.



Powered by Wear OS 5


The Galaxy Watch Ultra is one of the first Android smartwatches together with the #SamsungWatch7 powered by Wear OS 5. This ensures you can enjoy more seamless and smooth interactions and use your Galaxy Watch for longer. In addition, you can maximize your wearable experience with access to a variety of popular apps right from your wrist, including Galaxy services, Google apps, and other third-party applications.



The watch also syncs effortlessly with Samsung’s Galaxy Health ecosystem like the Samsung Galaxy Ultra, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, or Galaxy Buds 3. Samsung delivers precise sleep data and gives me insights from my Samsung devices.



Whether you're a traveler, a fitness enthusiast, or someone who just would like to step up their game, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is a smartwatch worth getting. Whether you're scaling mountains, diving into the ocean, or navigating a new city that you just visited, this watch is built to handle it all.



If you're someone looking for a smartwatch that can keep up with your adventures or just a smartwatch that can provide all the performance and power you need, the #GalaxyWatchUltra is a worthy investment.


#GalaxyWatchUltra #GalaxyWatch7 #GalaxyAI #GalaxyBuds3Pro #GalaxyBuds3 #GalaxyAI


 AOC Monitors continues solidifying its leadership in the display technology market, proudly announcing its dual accolades as the number 1 PC monitor brand and the number 1 gaming monitor brand in the Philippines for Q1 2024. 

This remarkable achievement is confirmed by the latest data released by the International Data Corporation (IDC) for the Asia and Pacific region, highlighting AOC's unmatched dominance in both categories.


After a remarkable 2023, with AOC being crowned as the number 1 gaming monitor in the Philippines and the number 1 PC monitor brand in unbundled sales, AOC Monitors continues its dominance and establishes itself as a de facto leader in the industry.

As the number 1 PC monitor brand for Q1 2024, AOC Monitors' impressive sales figures are driven by a broad portfolio of best-selling models catering to diverse consumer and business needs. AOC Monitors successfully captures the requirements of all of its users, making it a trusted brand in display technology across all segments and demographics.

In addition to becoming the leader of the overall monitor market, AOC Monitors has also secured the top spot as the number 1 gaming monitor brand for Q1 2024. This achievement is the fruit of AOC's commitment to delivering state-of-the-art gaming monitors that cater to the ever-evolving demands of gaming enthusiasts.

The dual recognition from IDC for Q1 2024 reaffirms AOC Monitors' leadership in both the overall PC monitor market and the gaming monitor segment, motivating the brand to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and ensuring that consumers in the Philippines receive only the best products available.

AOC Monitors extends its gratitude to its loyal customers and fans for their continued support, as well as its media partners for highlighting AOC’s achievements to their readers. As AOC looks forward to the rest of 2024, it remains committed to delivering top-tier products and services that exceed consumer expectations.


GoPro has introduced two exciting new cameras: the flagship ₱25,990 HERO13 Black and the compact ₱13,990 HERO. Both cameras enhance GoPro's signature technology with innovative features.


The HERO13 Black comes with advanced features like magnetic latch mounting, GPS, extended battery life, and four interchangeable HB-Series lenses designed for diverse shooting scenarios, including ultra-wide POV, macro photography, cinematic anamorphic video, and smart motion blur using ND filters.

The ₱13,990 HERO is GoPro’s smallest and lightest 4K camera yet, weighing just 86 grams. Despite its ultra-compact design, it delivers stunning 4K video quality, an intuitive interface, and the rugged durability GoPro is known for, all at an affordable price.

"These new GoPro cameras are crafted for our community, offering performance and creativity," said GoPro Founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman. "The HERO13 Black offers unmatched flexibility with its swappable lens options, enhanced battery, and improved mounting system, while the HERO is ideal for users seeking simplicity in a powerful, lightweight design."

HERO13 Black: Ultimate Performance The HERO13 Black elevates GoPro’s cutting-edge technology with features such as:

  • 13x Burst Slo-Mo: Capture up to 400fps at 720p or 5.3K at 120fps.
  • Redesigned Enduro Battery: A 10% larger, more efficient battery for extended use.
  • Magnetic Latch Mounting: Quick and versatile mounting solutions.
  • Wi-Fi 6: 40% faster content transfer speeds.
  • Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) HDR Video: Broadcast-level 10-bit color and wide color gamut.
  • Customizable Audio: Options for balanced sound or enhanced vocal clarity.
  • GPS + Performance Stickers: Track data like speed and altitude, ideal for geotagging.

Available as a standalone camera (₱25,990) or as part of the HERO13 Black Creator Edition (₱38,990), the HERO13 Black will be available starting September 11 at GoPro's official stores and authorized retailers across the Philippines.

HB-Series Lenses: Unleash Creativity The new HB-Series lenses, designed for the HERO13 Black, include:

  • Ultra Wide Lens Mod (₱6,590): Expands the field of view to 177° for immersive footage.
  • Macro Lens Mod (₱8,590): Variable focus for detailed close-ups.
  • Anamorphic Lens Mod (₱8,590): Wide-angle cinematic shots with a 21:9 aspect ratio.
  • ND Filter Pack (₱4,690): Creates cinematic motion blur with auto-detection for optimal settings.

HERO: Compact and Powerful The new HERO is GoPro’s most compact 4K camera, offering:


  • Ultra-light Design: Weighs only 86g, 35% smaller and 46% lighter than the HERO13 Black.
  • Waterproof and Durable: Built to withstand tough conditions, waterproof up to 16 feet.
  • Easy-to-Use Interface: Touchscreen and one-button control make it accessible for beginners and pros alike.
  • Stunning 4K Video: Capture Ultra HD 4K and HD footage with HyperSmooth stabilization and slow-motion options.

The HERO (₱13,990) will be available on September 23.


GoPro Quik App and Subscription Perks Both the HERO13 Black and HERO work seamlessly with the GoPro Quik app, offering features like automatic highlight video creation, professional editing tools, and wireless content transfer. GoPro subscriptions, including Premium (₱2,490/year) and Premium+ (₱5,990/year), unlock these features and offer unlimited cloud storage.

For more details on GoPro’s latest products and subscription plans, visit GoPro.com.

 

This new release boasts a sleek design, advanced security, and cameras designed to capture every moment with precision—making it the perfect entry point into the Galaxy ecosystem. Plus, when you purchase now, you can enjoy exclusive perks worth up to P2,690.

Sleek Design Meets Powerful Features Choose a phone that complements your style. The Galaxy A06 comes in sophisticated Blue Black and stylish Light Blue, now slimmer at just 8mm thick. With a side fingerprint sensor, unlocking your phone is fast and secure. Additionally, Samsung Knox Vault adds an extra layer of protection to keep your PINs, passwords, and sensitive data safe from cyber threats.

Capture your unique style with stunning photos using the Galaxy A06's dual rear camera system, featuring a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor. For selfies, the 8MP front camera is perfect for capturing your best moments.

Powered by the MediaTek G85 processor, the Galaxy A06 enables smooth multitasking, while the 5,000mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage. Whether you're gaming, streaming, or browsing, the 6.7-inch HD+ PLS LCD screen delivers vibrant visuals and sharp clarity.

Exclusive Freebies and Discounts Take advantage of awesome freebies worth up to P2,690 when you buy the Galaxy A06! Enjoy P1,000 off with a trade-in of any J Series device, an additional P500 discount for Samsung Members, and a FREE Travel Adapter worth P1,190 when you purchase before December 31, 2024. You can also enjoy up to 20% off on Galaxy Buds3 and 10% off on the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch7 when bought with the Galaxy A06 before September 30, 2024.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity—start your Samsung journey now with the Galaxy A06, available at Samsung Experience Stores, online, and participating retailers. Visit www.samsung.com/ph/ for more details.

The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), the country’s premier government-led travel trade event organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, reached an impressive PHP 396,215,526 (USD 7,055,182.56) in sales leads during the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) sessions held on September 4-5, 2024, at Conrad Manila. This record-breaking figure represents a 14.4% increase from last year, emphasizing PHITEX’s growing influence on the future of Philippine tourism.


PHITEX 2024 gathered 115 Philippine sellers and 86 foreign buyers from key and emerging markets, with TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles and Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano leading the TRAVEX event.


This year’s theme, “The Power of Collaboration in Tourism,” highlighted the importance of teamwork in driving industry growth. In her keynote address, Nograles praised the collective efforts to restore traveler confidence and advance the tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in the economy.



She also spotlighted PHITEX’s international recognition at the GovMedia Conference and Awards in Singapore, where it was named the Public Sector Initiative of the Year for the second consecutive year. Nograles emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism and innovation, noting initiatives like the PHITEX Educational Program (PEP) Talk, which covered topics such as circular tourism, AI-enhanced customer experiences, and the country’s commitment to being an LGBTQIA-friendly destination.



Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco attended the event’s dinner reception to thank PHITEX participants for their support of Philippine destinations, which positively impacts millions of Filipino lives. She also celebrated the country's recent wins at the World Travel Awards (WTA) during a toast.

PHITEX 2024 concluded with post-event tours showcasing the Philippines’ diverse tourist attractions to international buyers. Nograles emphasized the shift in traveler preferences toward meaningful experiences that connect them with local culture and communities, underscoring the value of the collaborations with local enterprises.

PHITEX 2024 was made possible through partnerships with sponsors, including the National Parks Development Committee, Grab, Seda Hotels, Lumi Candles, 2GO, Philippine Airlines, Destileria Limtuaco & Co. Inc., and Papa Kape.

For more information about PHITEX, visit https://www.phitex.ph/ 

AOC Monitors proudly announces its achievement as the leading monitor brand in the Philippines for 2023 in the Unbundled Sales category. This distinction is based on the latest figures from the International Data Corporation (IDC) for the Asia-Pacific region, confirming AOC’s strong market position and its dedication to providing high-quality monitors that meet both business and consumer needs.



2023 has been a standout year for AOC Monitors, marked by the launch of several new products that bolstered its market leadership. AOC remains committed to continuous innovation, ensuring consumers and businesses have access to cutting-edge monitors.

AOC attributes its remarkable 2023 sales performance to the release of key models such as the AOC U34P2C and AOC U34G3X, which have played a significant role in its ongoing success. These models reflect AOC's ability to respond to evolving market demands and embrace the latest technological advances.

The latest AOC monitors boast features like OLED displays, QHD resolutions, high refresh rates, ultra-fast response times, HDR10, and compatibility with AMD FreeSync or G-Sync, offering users an unparalleled visual experience for both performance and image quality.

The IDC recognition reinforces AOC Monitors' leadership in the industry, inspiring the brand to continue driving innovation and ensuring that consumers in the Philippines enjoy top-tier products.

AOC extends its gratitude to its loyal fans and media partners for their support, without whom these milestones would not have been possible. The company looks forward to continuing its mission of delivering exceptional products and services nationwide.

Even as August brings rain, the summer spirit stays alive at Lime Resort in Pasay, Metro Manila. Located near the scenic Manila Bay, Lime Resort Manila offers a year-round retreat filled with sun-drenched relaxation, luxury amenities, and stunning views. Experience an endless summer staycation right in the heart of the city—no need for long flights or a hefty budget!


Plan your next weekend escape with Lime Resort Manila's latest offerings and take advantage of these special off-season promotions.


Catch the Perfect Sunset
Lime Resort is famous for its breathtaking sunset views over Manila Bay. With recent reclamation efforts moving forward by about 300 meters, guests can now enjoy even more spectacular water views. Imagine ending a Saturday with an Instagram-worthy display of orange and pink hues as the sun sets—right from the comfort of the resort!


Enjoy Stylish Relaxation Without the High Cost
Lime Resort’s “It’s Always Summer at Lime” deals let you indulge in a stylish staycation without breaking the bank. Until August 31, 2024, you can book a Standard Room for just P3,325 or a Deluxe Room for P3,825. This offer includes a 10% discount on spa services, access to the in-house gym, and the luxurious infinity pool. Plus, you’ll enjoy top-notch hospitality, excellent room amenities, and, of course, stunning views of Manila Bay!


Satisfy Your Food Cravings

Treat yourself with the “Stay & Feast at Lime” package, available until August 31. Book a Standard Room for P4,973 or a Deluxe Room for P5,413, and enjoy a breakfast buffet for two, along with your choice of a buffet lunch or dinner. For those afternoon cravings, head to the Sky Lounge for complimentary ice cream and popcorn from 3 to 5 PM.


Enjoy Live Music and Fun

Whether you’re looking to belt out your favorite songs or just enjoy live music, Lime Resort has something for you. Visit the Blue House for a lively karaoke session with friends or head to the Lime Beach Club for occasional performances by local OPM artists. It’s the perfect way to unwind and make the most of your quick getaway!

Take advantage of these limited-time offers and plan your weekend staycation now. Don’t let the rainy season bring you down—book your city escape at Lime Resort and keep the summer vibes going strong!

 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced that the Circle to Search feature, developed in partnership with Google, is now available for select Galaxy A series devices. This move further extends the reach of mobile AI technology within the Galaxy ecosystem, highlighting Samsung and Google's commitment to delivering top-tier mobile experiences to a broader audience. Following its rollout on the Galaxy A series, Circle to Search will also be introduced to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE+, where the larger screens and Galaxy S Pen offer an enriched search experience.



Circle to Search, first launched with the Galaxy S24 series, has quickly become popular for its innovative approach to discovery, surpassing traditional search methods. As the feature expands to more Galaxy devices, including the latest Galaxy Z Flip6 and Z Fold6, it has been continuously enhanced to improve usability, adding features like full-page translation, homework assistance, and QR and barcode scanning. With its availability on the Galaxy A series and Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, more users can now enjoy the ability to ask complex questions about what they see.

"These updates bring new capabilities to the Galaxy A series and Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to more Galaxy users," said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. "Our goal is to make advanced AI technology accessible to a wider audience, enabling users to work more efficiently, unleash their creativity, and enjoy richer, more personalized interactions with their devices."




Circle to Search allows users to search for anything using a simple gesture without needing to switch apps. With this feature enabled, users can circle, highlight, or tap on any text, image, or video on the screen to initiate a search. This capability, the result of close collaboration with Google, reflects Samsung's ongoing commitment to openness and innovation. Powered by AI, Circle to Search delivers rich, contextual search results, elevating the search experience to new levels of convenience and engagement.

For more information about the Galaxy A series and Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, please visit:


 AOC Monitors proudly announces its recognition as the leading gaming monitor brand in the Philippines for 2023. According to the latest data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) for the Asia-Pacific region, AOC Monitors has secured its top position, reflecting its dedication to delivering high-quality monitors that meet the diverse needs of both business and consumer markets.

The year 2023 has been a milestone for AOC Monitors, with standout sales from its best-selling models, including the AOC 22B2HM2, AOC 24B1XH2, AOC 24G2SE, AOC 27B1H2, and AOC 27G2SE. These models have been pivotal in establishing AOC's market leadership, embodying the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.

Further fueling AOC's success in 2023 were the strong performances of its latest releases. The AOC U34P2C and AOC U34G3X models have significantly contributed to the brand's continued growth, demonstrating AOC's ability to stay ahead of market trends and technological advancements.

For gamers and professionals seeking top-tier performance, the AOC AG276QZD offers an unrivaled experience. This ultimate gaming monitor features an OLED display, QHD resolution, a lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate, an ultra-responsive 0.01 ms response time, HDR10 support, and G-Sync compatibility, delivering exceptional visuals and smooth gameplay.

For those in search of an expansive, immersive gaming setup, the AOC AG493UCX2 is an ideal choice. This 49-inch curved gaming monitor boasts 5K Dual QHD resolution, DisplayHDR 400, a 165Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, and Freesync Premium technology, ensuring a tear-free and highly engaging gaming experience.

IDC's recognition reaffirms AOC Monitors' leadership in the monitor market and inspires the brand to continue innovating, ensuring that Filipino consumers receive only the best in monitor technology.

AOC Monitors extends its gratitude to its loyal fans and media partners, whose support has been instrumental in achieving these milestones. As AOC continues to thrive, it remains committed to delivering superior products and services to customers across the Philippines.

For media inquiries, please contact: Marketing@mmdsg.com.ph



Whether you're looking to boost productivity, create content on the go, excel in outdoor activities, or enjoy a relaxing moment with music or wellness, the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem is your perfect companion. Seamlessly synced and compatible, devices like the Galaxy Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch7, and Galaxy Buds3 series offer a unified experience, all enhanced by the power of Galaxy AI.

Unleash New Possibilities with the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6


Upgrade your smartphone experience with the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, featuring cutting-edge design, enhanced durability, and AI-driven features that optimize their foldable capabilities. Powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, these devices deliver top-tier performance, enhanced by improved cooling systems and AI-driven optimizations. The Galaxy Z Flip6’s 50MP Wide and 12MP Ultra-wide sensors, along with AI zoom up to 10x, ensure stunning photos and videos, even in low light. Meanwhile, the wider yet lighter Galaxy Z Fold6 offers an updated, symmetrical design with an improved cover screen ratio for a more natural viewing experience.


Experience Immersive Audio with Galaxy Buds3

The Galaxy Buds3 series, enhanced by Galaxy AI, offers superior sound quality and advanced noise-canceling technology for an uninterrupted audio experience. With real-time translation through the Interpreter feature, the Buds3 ensure you're never out of the loop, no matter where you are. Seamless connectivity with other Galaxy devices allows for effortless switching between calls, music, and tasks.




Elevate Your Wellness Journey with the Galaxy Watch7 and Watch Ultra

The Galaxy Watch7 series is your ultimate wellness partner, offering advanced health monitoring features like heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and stress management. The Galaxy Watch Ultra, with its Titanium Grade 4 frame and 10ATM water resistance, is built for extreme conditions and long battery life, making it ideal for both everyday use and adventurous activities. With AI-powered metrics and a Dynamic Lug System, the Watch Ultra adapts to any environment, ensuring you stay connected and healthy wherever you go.




Seamless Integration Across Devices

Experience the true power of the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem, where devices work together effortlessly, powered by Galaxy AI. Start a task on the Galaxy Z Fold6, continue it on the Z Flip6, and take calls with the Galaxy Buds3 without missing a beat. This seamless integration ensures a smooth and efficient user experience, tailored to your preferences.


Exclusive Offers and Promotions

This August, take advantage of incredible offers to explore the Galaxy ecosystem. Get up to ₱15,000 trade-in incentive when you exchange your old device for the latest Galaxy Z Flip6 or Z Fold6. Plus, receive a free Galaxy Watch FE with the Galaxy Z Flip6 or a Galaxy Watch6 Classic 43mm with the Galaxy Z Fold6.

Bundle and save up to 50% on the Galaxy Buds3 series and 30% on the Galaxy Watch7 and Watch Ultra when purchased with a Galaxy Z Fold6 or Z Flip6. Enjoy additional perks like a free Watch Ultra Band or a fabric band with the Watch7, or a random Buds case with any Buds purchase.

Get up to 10% off with 0% installment for 24 months when you use participating bank credit cards. Plus, enjoy 6 months of Samsung Care+ for free, with options to upgrade to 1-year or 2-year plans at discounted rates.

These offers are valid until August 31, 2024.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB - 198741, 196927, 196930 Series of 2024


 The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines has partnered with Save Palawan Seas Foundation (SPSF) for its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program,  SUSTAINABILISEA: SPSF x TPB Create Hope: Bridging Sustainable Tourism with Environmental Welfare and Community Empowerment. The program took place from June 5 to 7, 2024, in Taytay, Palawan.


The program was held in Sitio Calabugtong and Barangays Casian and Batas. These areas, which face challenges in accessing essential utilities like power and water, greatly benefited from the initiative. By working together, both organizations marked an important step towards promoting sustainability, protecting the environment, and supporting local communities.




To cope with the problem of limited access to power, approximately 600 houses in the coastal towns of Barangay Casian—namely, Sitios Calabugtong, Dinet, Calampasiao, and Sitio proper— received 40 units of solar street lights, marking the start of the CSR program. Additionally, the TPB provided school materials to students and teachers in these sitios and organized a soup kitchen during the activity.



The next day included coral propagation activities and marine conservation awareness. The seminar, which included practical instruction and direction by marine professionals and was organized in association with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), was held in the SPSF sanctuary. The participants planted around 200 coral fragments.





Additionally, CSR participants also carried out a nature trek and a tree-planting event at Taytay, Palawan's Lake Manguao, a freshwater lake nestled within the lush forests. It is home to many bird species and has become a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Its unique biological feature having no surface outflow that connects to the sea. The recent activity demonstrates TPB's commitment to supporting sustainable practices for Lake Manguao's conservation and protection, and assisting in maintaining the lake's natural ecosystems.


This initiative also included planting 1,000-2,000 mangrove propagules in Brgy. Batas and coastal clean-up in Sitio Calabugtong. This was a noteworthy effort because mangroves shield the land from the damaging effects of harsh weather events. Coastal cleanup is equally important since it protects marine life from harmful waste. This is highly beneficial to the island's coastal communities. 


This collaborative effort between TPB and SPSF underscores the importance of collective action in promoting sustainable tourism, environmental protection, and community empowerment. By working together, TPB has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability, environmental conservation, and community support.


The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines was recognized at this year’s GovMedia Conference and Awards 2024 as the recipient of the Philippines Public Sector Initiative of the Year—Tourism award for the outstanding success of one of its flagship programs, the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2023. 


The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines Organizing Committee for the

Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2023.


TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco received the award during a ceremony at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre on Thursday, 13 June 2024.


“This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable and innovative tourism practices. I want to thank my team at the Tourism Promotions Board, our private stakeholder partners, and foreign buyers for making PHITEX 2023, the first purely in-person event since the pandemic, a resounding success,” said TPB COO Nograles. “Under the leadership of Tourism Secretary Frasco, we will continue to leverage technology and prioritize sustainability to enhance our tourism promotion efforts and showcase the best of the Philippines and our people to the world.”


Business-to-business sessions at the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2023 held from September 20 to 21, 2023 at the Fili-NuStar Hotel, Cebu.


Since its inception in 1996, PHITEX has played a vital role in fostering business partnerships and showcasing the finest tourism offerings of the Philippines. The 2023 edition embraced the theme “Tourism Sustainability in the Era of Internet of Things (IoT),” highlighting the country’s digitalization and sustainability efforts to meet global demands.


PHITEX 2023 successfully hosted 88 buyers from 19 countries worldwide for travel exchange sessions with 164 seller delegates from 119 Philippine companies. The event facilitated 4,063 business meetings, generating a projected revenue of over PHP 341.5 million. 


TPB COO Nograles receives GovMedia Conference and Awards 2024 - Philippines Public Sector Initiative of the Year Award with Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco on June 13, 2024 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Center in Singapore.


Apart from the business-to-business sessions, PHITEX also functioned as an innovative knowledge-sharing platform for local stakeholders and academia members in the field of tourism through its Philippine Educational Program (PEP) Talk, which offered insights into the latest advancements in IoT, data privacy, and circular economies.


Timothy Charlton, Editor-in-Chief of Charlton Media Group, 

TPB COO Marga Nograles, and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco


Pre and post-familiarization tours introduced participating international buyers to diverse community-based tourist sites, highlighting grassroots initiatives, local textiles, culinary treasures, and other eco-tourism activities in the Philippines.


The GovMedia Conference & Awards is a prestigious event that spotlights outstanding government projects and initiatives in Asia that contribute to the well-being of the people in the region. Last year, TPB’s PHITEX received the National Tourism Initiative of the Year award at the 2023 GovMedia Awards.
















 For all that he has done for us, our favorite man deserves the best treat on his special day. Celebrate Father’s Day in the most unforgettable way at Pico Sands Hotel.



Make it a date with Dad at Dad’s Day Buffet at Lagoa where an unforgettable Filipino-themed dining experience waits for Php 1,350 nett per person. On 14 June from 6 PM to 10 PM, gather your family and treat the king of the house to a sumptuous buffet dinner that promises to tantalize the taste buds and create lasting memories. You do not go home empty-handed as you take a snap at our photobooth for a heartwarming souvenir. 


 




For guests who prefer a relaxing dining vibe in the most intimate way, go straight by the garden steps of Pico Resto for Garden Jam Sessions featuring our fresh catch grill station matched with soothing tunes from our live entertainment every Fridays to Sundays from 6 PM to 10 PM.




Seal the night with the perfect kick of a blended cocktail made from the local liquor and spirits of Destileria Barako with Lagoa’s Agimat Cocktails. 





With such a decadent selection, every guest is sure to find something to indulge in. Whether you’re a fan of rich, savory meats or fresh, succulent seafood, Pico Sands Hotel and Pico de Loro Country Club have something to satisfy every palate.


 




A day without a good game will never be well spent. Bond with Dad over BN’B’s Strikes and Strokes and indulge in good food while having fun for only Php 650 nett per one hour of billiards or one game of bowling paired with flavorful chicken wings for two.





Enhance the celebration by gifting Dad with pampering hot stone massage therapy matched with a foot paraffin at Pico Sands Hotel’s Rain, the Spa. This simple token is the perfect way to show Dad how much he is appreciated, offering a blend of relaxation and elegance that is hard to resist. Get this special offer from 1 to 30 June from 12 PM to 10 PM for only Php 1,860 nett per person for 75 minutes.



Wrap up the day with a simple gift for Dad from Grab N Go’s custom-made Mugs for Dads at only Php 290 nett.


For room reservations, call +63 917 809 1289 or email reservations@picosandshotel.com. For restaurant reservations, email fnb.reservations@picodeloroclub.com.