Futureproofing Philippine Tourism
Lifestyle Asia, the Philippines’ only luxury lifestyle magazine that has 100% Philippine content is poised more than ever to celebrate, enrich and uplift our nation and its people. In 2020, we have taken a stand to help push our country to the world stage. More and more you will see this reflected in our issues, beginning with the first issue of the year. We are proud of our Philippine heritage and see great potential in our country as we develop as a nation.
Tourism is quite close to me as I love exploring the Philippines and going on frequent trips to the beach. The growth of this industry has been exciting to watch. With proper infrastructure, consistent and strong political will, and the support of both local government and private institutions, we can make the Philippines an excellent destination for the world. It is our dream that someday, the Philippines will one day be part of every bucket list: A destination where everyone dreams of visiting. We are still far away from this but we believe that one day, we will get there.
It is given that the Philippines is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Rich in bio-diversity, marine life, stunning islands, pristine beaches, marvelous sites, crystal-clear waters, and much more. Not to mention, a country where the majority of people can understand and speak English is a big asset. More importantly, Filipino hospitality is one of the best in the world. However, as we develop our country, it can come at the expense of our environment: case in point, the world-renowned island of Boracay. We have learned that tourism growth is not just about fixing infrastructures and promoting the Philippines around the world but also about protecting our verdant islands and preserving it for future generations to see and experience.
Our cover personality for February is none other than the Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Berna Romulo Puyat. She is at the forefront of development and the bold changes and initiatives in sustainable tourism. Secretary Berna, gifted with beauty, brains, and an inspiring commitment to serve, protect, and nurture our environment is making leaps and bounds in boosting our tourism while preserving our surroundings. This is no easy feat. Besides promoting the Philippines and building the right infrastructure needed to grow further, she is a proponent of sustainable tourism. Her work revolves around responsible and ethical tourism, rehabilitation, collaborations, and environmental integrity, all big words with full of meaning. Read the cover story to see her progress and learn about how she plans to further her causes.
Another proud Filipino who has taken up the cause of promoting our country to the world stage is Dr. Vicki Belo. She, too, is also at the forefront of tourism, by leading the way for medical tourism. Being a pioneer in the local beauty industry, she has taken steps to allow the prosperity of medical tourism to improve in the country.
We are also highlighting different facets and giving different perspectives to the destinations of Boracay as a food haven, Vigan as a land of wellpreserved traditions, Siargao as a pristine location untouched by commercialization and El Nido as a sustainable tourism destination. We have also lined up top resorts and restaurants around the Philippines to experience.
The Philippines’ efforts not only to bolster tourism but also to protect and preserve it have already reached global recognition. Condé Nast Traveler voted Boracay as the number one best island in Asia, after its rehabilitation, with Cebu coming in at second and Palawan at fourth place. In 2018, Siargao occupied the top spot. We are happy and proud to see the remarkable global recognition that is truly deserved. With all the efforts made, it has made traveling and supporting local tourism more meaningful. This is a value that we truly believe in as we further our cause of living a meaningful life. The momentum is there, and it is for all of us to work together to make sure the Philippines is on everyone’s bucket list. ▪