State Visit Further Elevates Relations

4 The Japan Times Wednesday, June 3, 2015 Philippine president’s visit State Visit further elevates relations

ing root, and future prospects Organization (JETRO). This But the strength of Philip- Japan in 2015 and beyond. For tually beneficial ties between are seen to further improve trend should strengthen and pine-Japan relations covers a their part, Japanese tourists the Republic of the Philippines under the bold policies and persist, as the two countries tap far broader sphere. In the polit- have demonstrated great en- and Japan readily emerge to structural and regulatory re- and optimize their many syner- ical-security arena, the two thusiasm for the Philippines, form one of the closest partner- forms being resolutely pursued gies and draw on the Philip- countries have also been stra- with its unrivaled beauty, rich ships in the Asia Pacific region. by the Abe government. pines’ expected strong tegic partners in the truest culture and proximity to Japan. President Aquino’s visit to Japan The Philippines’ surging eco- long-term growth. President sense, collaborating bilaterally Japanese tourists to the Philip- is the latest affirmation yet of nomic fortunes and Japan’s Aquino’s administration’s own and in the context of regional pines reached 463,744 in 2014, this hallowed tradition. own sure steps toward econom- reforms have placed the Philip- frameworks to advance mutual a 6.9 percent increase. The Phil- With the bilateral relation- ic revival combine to create pines in an excellent position to interests, and to respond to ippines is now setting its sights ship set to mark 60 years of re- valuable opportunities for both attract both present and future common and complex chal- on breaching the half-million lations in 2016, President countries to derive substantial waves of Japanese FDI inflows. lenges now rearing their heads mark and topping this number Aquino’s visit serves as a most and sustained mutual growth Japanese official develop- in our region and its waters. many times over. With the auspicious occasion for yet in the coming years. ment assistance (ODA), which As major maritime nations number of airlines and flights again demonstrating the abid- Needless to say, the upward has topped that of other coun- straddling Asia’s strategic rim operating between the two ing relevance of Philippine-Ja- trajectory in relations is very tries for years, will also contin- along the Pacific, the Philip- countries expanding, the com- pan relations, in serving the much felt in the economic ue to play a vital role in the pines and Japan — asia’s ing years will see reciprocal best interests of the Filipino sphere. Japanese foreign direct development of various sectors. staunchest democracies, and tourism records fall between and Japanese peoples, and in Manuel M. Lopez investment (FDI), which has Now that the Philippine econ- both U.S. treaty allies — are now the Philippines and Japan. contributing to the stability Ambassador of the Philippines long had a major role in Philip- omy has shifted to a higher at the forefront of the drive to Visits are a manifestation of and future growth of the larger pine industrialization and growth trajectory, both coun- help secure the region’s peace closeness between friends. By region that is our common Arriving yesterday, H.E. Presi- growth, continues to pour into tries are seen to direct Japanese and security. The Philippines this measure, the close and mu- neighborhood. President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Republic of the Philippines dent Benigno S. Aquino III is the Philippines, encouraged by ODA more toward helping es- has been providing a strong being received by the govern- a much-improved and highly tablish the bases for securing voice for peaceful resolution of ment of Japan as this year’s first attractive business environment the Philippines’ future growth conflicts and the primacy of the Background of H.E. President of the Philippines Benigno S. Aquino III state guest. that has made the Philippines and productivity, for instance, rule of law. Japanese foreign President Aquino’s three-day the top profit center for Japa- by supporting industrialization policy mirrors these advoca- The 15th President of the Republic of the And yet it also awakened a remem- gress proclaimed Aquino as president state visit through June 5 is of nese companies in asia and and manufacturing, further cies, and is now set toward pur- Philippines, Benigno Simeon Aquino III, brance of the values she stood for. It elect of the Philippines. In his inaugural great significance for both coun- Oceania, according to no less modernizing the Philippines’ suing a more proactive role for has come to stand for Filipinos’ reinvigo- stirred up the people’s yearning for an address on June 30, 2010, he told the Fili- tries, whose engagement and than the Japan External Trade infrastructure. Japan in underpinning region- rated passion to build a nation of justice, honest and compassionate leadership, pino people: “We are here to serve and cooperation are now at most ex- al peace and security. President peace and inclusive progress. and a nation that trusts and works with not to lord over you. The mandate given cellent levels. Bilateral ties have Aquino’s forthcoming summit Aquino — the only son of democracy its government. to me was one of change. I accept your grown exponentially under the meeting with Abe promises to icons Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Immediately after her wake, people marching orders to transform our govern- vision and leadership of both further cement the two coun- and President Corazon Aquino — has in began to call on Aquino, urging him to ment from one that is self-serving to one President aquino and H.E. tries’ firm cooperation to ad- different junctures throughout his life re- run for the presidency in the 2010 elec- that works for the welfare of the nation.” Prime Minister shinzo abe. vance their shared advocacy. sponded to the challenge of acting with tions to continue his parents’ work. Peti- The presidency of Aquino has been President aquino’s sojourn President Aquino’s visit will and serving the Filipino people. tions and an outpouring of support marked by a hardy dedication to bringing promises to even raise the stra- also be an occasion to celebrate In 1983 after the assassination of his through yellow ribbons and stickers about shared progress by doing things tegic partnership to newer the long history of friendship father, he returned from exile to the went full blast, convincing him to run. the right way. Aquino’s determination to heights. and mutual appreciation be- country to help show the way for the Moreover, other candidates such as lead the government and the nation to- The state visit takes place at tween Filipino and Japanese EDSA People Power Revolution — the Senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, Pam- ward the straight path has been the cata- a most propitious time. The peoples. Over 222,000 Filipinos nonviolent and prayerful revolution by panga Gov. Eddie Panlilio, and Isabela lyst for unprecedented economic Philippine economy is soaring, regard Japan as a second home, ordinary people that toppled a dictator- Gov. Grace Padaca gave up their presi- growth, which has trickled down to the riding high on the wings of solid sharing their creativity, skills, ship and restored Philippine democracy. dential aspirations to support Aquino. margins of society through improved macroeconomic fundamentals, industry and cheerful spirit for In 1998, Aquino entered public service After a spiritual retreat at the Carmel- government services, reforms in the ed- booming trade, high levels of the growth and development of to make sure that the democracy his par- lite Monastery in Zamboanga City, Aqui- ucation system and conditional cash foreign and domestic invest- both their Philippine mother- ents fought for would bring changes in no responded to the call to make the transfers for the poor; an inspired cam- ment, and, just as importantly, land and Japanese society. This people’s lives. He served as representa- people’s passion for change the driving paign for good governance and justice as high consumer optimism and is complemented by yet anoth- tive of the 2nd District of Tarlac from force behind a new government. On evidenced by the prosecution of corrupt business confidence. since er notable trend as the number 1998 to 2007. In May 2007, he joined the Sept. 9, 2009, 40 days after his mother’s and abusive government officials; and 2012, the Philippines has been of Filipino tourists to Japan Philippine Senate, wherein he worked to death, he officially announced his candi- the empowerment of every citizen so one of asia’s fastest-growing reached 184,204 in 2014. bring about legislative initiatives an- dacy for president at Club Filipino in they may participate in building a nation economies, besting all other Encouraged by the relaxation chored on the protection of human rights Greenhills, San Juan — where his moth- of hope and opportunity. countries, save for one. The of Japanese visa requirements, and honest and responsible governance. er took oath on the final day of the EDSA Aquino once said: “My hope is that world’s leading credit ratings Filipinos posted the fastest The most despondent days perhaps in People Power Revolution. “I want to when I leave office, everyone can say agencies have all awarded the growth rate in tourism from Aquino’s life took place in 2009 when his make democracy work not just for the that we have traveled far on the right Philippines investment-grade ASEAN member states into mother passed away from cancer after rich and well connected but for every- path, and that we are able to bequeath a ratings. Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III and Prime Minister Japan last year, at 70 percent. suffering for nearly a year. Her demise body,” he said. better future to the next generation. Join Japan, for its part, is seeing Shinzo Abe meet on Nov. 12, on the sidelines of ASEAN-related Record numbers of Filipino prompted mourning all over the country. On June 9, 2010, the Philippine Con- me in continuing this fight for change.” the seeds of revitalization tak- Summit Meetings in Myanmar. CABINET public relations office tourists are expected to visit

PAGE: 4 The Japan Times Wednesday, June 3, 2015 5 Philippine president’s visit

Reaping gains of dynamic economic partnership Excellent governance propels Philippine growth Ramon R. del Rosario Jr. the Philippines’ rank in Transparency In- and family planning Gregory L. Domingo Chairman, MAKATI BUSINESS CLUB ternational’s Corruption Perceptions services, and ulti- Secretary of the Department of Index, where the country, likewise, mately to improve Trade and Industry As President Benigno S. Aquino III un- jumped 49 places, from 134th in 2010 to maternal and child dertakes his state visit to Japan, the Phil- 85th in 2014. health. To comple- Japan remains ippines stands ready to With these achievements, investor ment this, in 2013, a leading and further cement the com- confidence in the Philippines has steadi- the National Health valuable ally in mercial, social, and secu- ly risen. In 2014, foreign direct invest- Insurance Act was the Philippines’ rity ties between our two ments into the Philippines reached an signed, ensuring continued eco- nations. This is all the all-time high of $6.2 billion — still below universal health- nomic growth more relevant today as the level of investments that flow to care coverage and and journey as the Philippines, from other countries in ASEAN, but certainly increasing the a rising tiger in being “the sick man of on the upward swing. In fact, Japanese healthcare system’s resources. The K+12 Asia. Asia,” is now “Asia’s ris- manufacturing corporations have taken education system was also formally en- With the upcoming state visit ing tiger,” riding on the back of very no- note of the vast potentials present in the acted in 2013, and seeks to provide Filipi- of President Benigno S. Aquino table gains in the economic, good Philippines, with companies such as no students additional years of III to Japan, we expect that we governance, and demographic aspects. Bandai, Fujifilm,M urata, Canon and schooling in line with global bench- will cultivate and expand our For instance, Philippine GDP grew by Brother Industries expanding their oper- marks, as well as equip them with the valued relationship and mutu- 6.8 percent, 7.2 percent and 6.1 percent, ations in the country. necessary skills for either university ally beneficial collaborations to respectively, from 2012 to 2014. With The importance of the country’s studies or employment. Among other encourage and strengthen such rapid expansion, the Philippines greatest resource, the Filipino people, achievements, with the impending es- business partnerships. has been Southeast Asia’s fastest grow- also cannot be understated. Besides the tablishment of the ASEAN Economic As the Philippines’ signifi- ing economy, and among the fastest in Filipino people’s well-known hospitality, Community, through a law signed in cant economic partner, Japan all of Asia, for three straight years. orientation for service, and highly train- 2014, foreign banks may now fully enter has been closely working with Credit ratings agencies have also able and adaptable nature, our popula- the Philippines. us in promoting trade and in- given the Philippines positive marks tion is in a demographic sweet spot. It is the good governance agenda, vestment between our coun- over the last few years. In May 2014, That is, the majority of the country’s however, that is propelling the country’s tries. Last year, Japan was our S&P upgraded the country to BBB, one people will be of working age, a trend positive economic outlook. Open data top trading partner and, in re- notch above investment grade. that is expected to last for the next 30 and accessibility have become guiding cent years, total trade has Moody’s, likewise, raised the country’s years. principles in government webportals grown continuously by an aver- credit rating to one notch above invest- To build upon these economic foun- and social media channels, as a chief age of 9.6 percent. Japan is a top ment grade in December 2014 to Baa2 dations, the government enacted mea- justice was impeached for failing to de- source of foreign direct invest- from Baa3. Meanwhile, as of March, sures targeted at institutionalizing the clare his full wealth, and three senators ments and accounts for the Fitch Ratings affirmed its BBB- or invest- reform agenda and increasing invest- and their cohorts await trial for plunder. highest number of tenants in ment grade rating. ments in human capital. Firstly, the The private sector is part of this trans- our economic zones. The Philippines’ international compet- GOCC Governance Act of 2011 estab- parency agenda through the Integrity We, at the department of itiveness standings have also improved, lished a Governance Commission for Initiative — a campaign which seeks to Trade and Industry, see the gaining 33 places in the World Economic Government-Owned or Controlled Cor- improve the Philippines’ business cli- state visit as a vital opportunity Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report porations (GOCC) to formulate and im- mate by establishing common ethical to boost our strategic economic in the last three years, now ranking 52nd plement policies so that GOCC will standards. partnership. Aside from bring- overall in the world. In the World Bank- conform to the highest standards of It has often been mentioned by Presi- ing a business delegation com- IFC’s Doing Business Report, the coun- good governance. The Reproductive dent Aquino that good governance is posed of large and A night view of Makati City, Metro Manila, which has the highest concentration of multinational try rose by 49 places, from the 144th Health and Responsible Parenthood good economics. With the aforemen- medium-sized Philippine com- and domestic corporations in the Philippines. Embassy of the philippines spot in 2010 to 95th place in 2015. The Law, enacted in 2012, seeks to provide tioned milestones achieved by the Phil- panies, we will have a business anti-corruption agenda has also raised universal access to reproductive health ippines, indeed there is a palpable forum for prospective Japanese to its bywords of transparency identified in our 2014 Invest- come more investments and optimism that the country is on the rise. investors with President Aquino and good governance. Our ment Priorities Plan, which technology transfers in this There is no other time in the country’s as the keynote speaker. In the commitment to these embodi- lists activities that qualify for area. Likewise, we encourage recent history when there has been such forum, we intend to highlight ments coupled with judicious incentives from the govern- investments in the infrastruc- a convergence of positive factors: we areas and sectors that are attrac- investment in human resource ment. among the preferred ture sector as this is among the Bonifacio Global have vast investment opportunities in in- tive investment opportunities. capacity building has enabled activities are manufacturing, primary movers in our push City, a former frastructure, agribusiness, and manufac- We are confident that this businesses to grow and has agribusiness and fisheries, for long-term economic military base and turing; a young, dynamic, and educated year will be another banner sustained our macro-econom- services, finance and low-cost growth. now popularly citizenry; an economy that is proving re- year for the country as we con- ic fundamentals. housing, hospitals, energy, With the full integration of known as The Fort, silient amidst financial storms overseas; tinue to experience remarkable As we continue to reap gains public infrastructure and lo- the ASEAN Economic Commu- has become a new and an administration that remains com- and sustainable economic from economic success with gistics and public-private nity this year, we encourage center of urban mitted to achieving inclusive growth and growth under the leadership of the help of our strategic part- partnerships (PPP). Japanese companies to further development, sustaining the reform agenda. Moving President Aquino. ners such as Japan, we invite With the resurgence of the explore the advantages of the business and forward, I invite our good friends from The Philippines’ notable you to be a part of our country’s manufacturing sector in the Philippines’ position as a prime lifestyle in Metro Japan to take a good look at our country gross domestic product growth growth story and take advan- country in the past couple of gateway to the region counting Manila. and it is my fervent hope that you be- rates in recent years are largely tage of the various business op- years, and our focus on micro, on our proximity as neighbors embassy of the come part of the Philippine success ascribed to President Aquino’s portunities. small and medium enterprise but also on our long and vi- philippines story in the days to come. administration’s commitment These opportunities are development we strongly wel- brant bilateral ties.

PAGE: 5 6 THE JAPAN TIMES WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015 Philippine president’s visit ‘Visit the Philippines Year 2015’ to boost Japanese arrivals

stronger demand from senior travelers. Japan currently ranks third in tourism arrivals to the Phil- ippines. In 2014, Japanese arrivals in the Philippines totaled 463,744 compared to 433,705 in 2013. In just the rst quarter of 2015, the Philippine Department of Tourism has al- ready recorded 130,374 arrivals. If these numbers continue, they will surpass last year’s numbers. Such is the support of the government that Philippine President Benigno Aquino III has declared 2015 as Visit the Philippines Year by virtue of Proclamation NO. 991, seeing e Philippines is set to be- tourism as a tool to mobilize come the ultimate destination resources for enhancing infra- this year with the launch of the structure and product devel- Department of Tourism’s opment, generating (DOT) Visit the Philippines employment and stimulating Year (VPY) 2015, an invitation investment. Philippine tour- for all to experience the endur- ism also serves as a platform ing promise of “It’s More Fun for closer collaboration be- in the Philippines.” Encourag- tween the public and private ing nationwide participation, sectors, as well as the interna- DOT hopes to inspire 10 mil- tional community, with Japan lion foreign tourists to discov- in mind, in hosting events er, explore and fall in love with that attract international visi- the Philippines. tors and showcase local talent Japanese visitors to the and skills. country will not run out of rea- But of course, it is the peo- sons to visit the Philippines as ple’s hospitality and optimism 2015 proves to be an exciting that make the Philippines the Clockwise from above: The Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island; year. From the Papal Visit in best place to be in 2015. Spanish colonial architecture in the historic town of Vigan; January, the Madrid Fusion- the Banaue Rice Terraces in the mountains of Banaue; and the Manila in April, the MTV Arts and culture diverse variety of cuisine highlighting delicacies from each Music Evolution Manila in May e Sinulog, Dinagyang, Ati- region are just some of the tourist attractions in the Philippines. The ocean surrounding the more than 7,100 islands of the Philippines is home to a wide range of to the Asia Paci c Economic atihan, Masskara, Kadayawan EMBASSY OF THE PHILIPPINES marine species and a paradise for scuba diving. EMBASSY OF THE PHILIPPINES Cooperation (APEC) Ministe- and Panagbenga are just some rial Meetings and Leaders’ of the many colorful and fes- no. Food festivals abound from new food habits, this is the o¦ er in terms of lifestyle and simbo Music Festival fth an- is concert-party brought to sical Competition. Summit in November, VPY tive events that celebrate and north to south in every week of rst time the event was held entertainment. Shopping des- niversary. life the evolution of a music Never amiss in what’s in, the 2015 will feature a mix of fun showcase the beautiful people every month, highlighting del- in Asia. Two major compo- tinations and nightlife are key e most exciting VPY musi- genre and enabled young peo- country comes out on top in events and activities, as well as and culture of the Philippines. icacies from each region, prov- nents: A gastronomy congress selling points for Manila. cal event of the year happened ple to experience and discover providing recreation and en- the unveiling of more historic ese world-famous festivals ince or community. and a trade exhibition fea- Fusion, the rst Philippine in May, with the staging of the how music styles and sounds tertainment that is hard to treasures, natural wonders and open the door for visitors to Last April, the Philippines tured avant-garde cuisine and Music Festival in January was rst-ever MTV Music Evolu- have evolved over the years. match. unforgettable adventures. discover its rich heritage of hosted the very rst Madrid the coming together of inter- just the start of the line-up as tion Manila, the biggest Hip- Recorded live for global tele- According to a Euromonitor centuries-old baroque Fusion, Manila. Spain’s famed national gastronomy. is international performers in Hop concert of 2015. cast, the rst edition of MTV Travel and adventure report, the number of Japanese churches, historical muse- culinary event, Madrid Fu- global event showcased the the likes of Michael Buble, e Showcasing iconic interna- Music Evolution hit the shores e Philippines is rich in natu- outbound trips is expected to ums, local arts and Filipino sion, has been established as encounters between Spanish Vamps, Boyce Avenue, Ed tional musicians and the hot- of Manila through internation- ral wonders that tourists want- increase by a 2 percent com- craftsmanship. one of the leading internation- and Filipino chefs as they cel- Sheeran, One Direction, Ma- test new acts in both the al hip-hop. ing to commune with nature pounded annual growth rate Philippine cuisine is also a al gastronomy gatherings held ebrated 300 years of shared roon 5 and the Script will also regional and local music ere are also unique inter- will love. Being an archipelago (CAGR) to reach 19.1 million major draw as the country has annually in Madrid. Attended history. hold concerts in the country. scenes on a single stage, it also national events held in the of 7,107 islands and often de- in 2018. is growth will be Spanish, Chinese, Malay and by elite chefs and experts in Puerto Galera in March saw showcased the best of Philip- country like the Philippine Hot scribed as a glittering necklace supported by capacity growth Indian in¤ uences to make up the culinary eld to discuss Life and entertainment the celebration of music, art, pine music and culture to Air Balloon Fiesta and the Phil- of emeralds in the Paci c, it is among low-cost carriers and the diverse palate of the Filipi- trends, evolution of tastes and e Philippines has a lot to dance and nature at the Mala- young international audiences. ippine International Pyromu- CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

PAGE: 6 The Japan Times Wednesday, June 3, 2015 7 Philippine president’s visit Japan’s increasingly preferred investment destination

Yoshio Amano ness of the country from an in- lace, with an average age of 22.2 President, The Japanese vestment persepective. years, complements the aging Chamber of Commerce & We trust that the reforms population of Japan. Industry of the Philippines, Inc. and peace initiatives being led Macroeconomic fundamen- by the president will continue tals remain very strong, with We cordially to see steady growth. consistent positive growth welcome the Apart from attractive invest- coupled with stable inflation visit of His Ex- ment incentives granted by the rates posted by the Philippines cellency Presi- Philippine government to in- in recent years. It is therefore, dent of the vestors, the country also boasts not surprising that the Japa- Philippines Be- facilities conducive for business nese Chamber of Commerce nigno S. Aquino and expatriate living in a coun- and Industry of the Philip- III to Japan as a try that is just around four hours pines, Inc. (JCCIPI) has been state guest. away from Japan. It has the best witnessing an increase in the Under the strong leadership of the sun, sea, sand and sports number of Japanese compa- of President Aquino, the Phil- facilities, including golf and div- nies doing business in the ippines has seen remarkable ing destinations. Philippines. economic development over The Philippines, as the near- We are confident that this the past five years and has re- est country to Japan among the state visit of the president will alized the highest GDP growth ASEAN countries, is also be- strengthen the strategic part- rate among ASEAN countries. coming the one with the closest nership between our countries In particular, reforms that relationship in terms of eco- and further enhance our exist- The white sand beaches and resorts on the islands of Borocay (left) and Bohol (right) are among the Philippines’ major tourist draws. embassy of the philippines were made under the slogan nomic collaboration and ex- ing relationship. “no economic growth without change of human resources. Once again, we would like eradication of corruption,” Indeed the world-class English- to extend a very warm wel- Islands serve up sports, nature, culture and relaxation have improved the attractive- speaking young Filipino popu- come to President Aquino.

Continued from page 6 boost the country’s economic the Philippines” website Two-way tourism Thanks to the unprecedent- endowed with tropical weath- growth through sports tour- (www.itsmorefuninthephilip- The year-round events pre- ed support from the national er year round where tropical ism while offering boundless pines.com) with more features pared for the Visit Philippine government, local govern- foliage blooms and shares its possibilities for both athletes to assist potential tourists, trav- Year 2015 will inspire even ments and the private sector, perennial beauty. A hundred and spectators. el agencies and event organiz- the most experienced trav- tourism remains one of the pil- volcanoes dot the islands, in- ers. The website aims to be the eler to return to the Philip- lars of growth and inclusive- cluding the Philippines in the Business one-stop portal for all queries pines. While the Japan wave ness. With VPY 2015, dOT Ring of Fire, to which it owes The Philippines also boasts about traveling to the Philip- — fascination for the Japa- aims to have one major occa- its rich, fertile landscape and modern facilities for conven- pines, its must-visit destina- nese culture — will entice sion for every quarter that will perhaps the world’s greatest tions and business conferences. tions and events in 2015. Philippine visitors to the Jap- attract not only domestic, but biodiversity. This year, the country plays host In support, the Tourism Pro- anese shore, the VPY events, also international tourists to If you want pristine beaches to the asia Pacific economic motions Board (TPB) has de- aside from the slew of Philip- visit the country. or crashing waves, bountiful Cooperation (APEC) Ministe- veloped a microsite inside the pine travel tours and agen- “What will truly sustain the lakes or serene lagoons, mag- rial Meetings and Leaders’ “It’s More Fun in the Philip- cies, will also prove to be Visit the Philippines year nificent mountains or chal- Summit. Guests will include 21 pines” website to serve as a di- viable tools in support of 2015 campaign are the peo- lenging volcanoes that dot the heads of state and 46 ministers, rectory to everything the growth of Japanese tourism ple themselves. I enjoin the idyllic countryside, the Philip- along with about 10,000 eco- Philippines has to offer. traffic to the Philippines. As businesses, communities pines has it all. The country is nomic leaders, support staff “All stakeholders, from event travel between the two coun- and the public, to play an ac- famous for its hiking, diving and international journalists. organizers to travel agencies, tries increases, tourism en- tive part in spreading and and adventure hubs such as Other VPY 2015 business are encouraged to log on to vis- hances the understanding of amplifying our messages, en- Siargao Island, a favorite surf- events include the 46th World itph2015.com to register and each other’s culture further ticing would-be visitors to ing site, Boracay, known for its Trade Centers association promote their activities to an diminishing arrival gaps become visit our shores,” Tour- powder-fine white sand beach- General Assembly, 17th Asia international audience. The tween the two countries. ism secretary Ramon Ji- es, Bohol for cruise tourism Pacific Retailers Convention year-long calendar is a refer- “It is ripe to engage our menez Jr. said. and Cebu for its breathtaking and exhibition and asean ence for any visitor to experi- countries with programs that Indeed, Visit the Philippines dive sites. Corporate Sustainability Sum- ence the best of what the embrace the concept of two- Year 2015 is a great opportu- World Heritage sites such as mit and Awards. country has to offer in the arts, way tourism with a Philippine nity to finally share with the the Banaue Rice Terraces, VPY 2015 also comes at the business, sports and travel Japan Tourism Exchange Pro- world the unique experiences Davao Oriental’s Mount Hami- time DOT is making progress scene,” TPB’s COO Domingo gram,” Undersecretary Benito and adventures our country Located within the Makati’s business district in Metro Manila, the Greenbelt shopping mall offers guitan Range Wildlife and on measures to realize the Ramon Enerio said. Bengzon Jr. said. has to offer. a mix of high-end retail shops, restaurants, leisure and entertainment. embassy of the philippines Sanctuary and the Puerto planned regional economic in- Princesa Underground River, tegration of association of one of the world’s New7Won- Southeast asian nations, ders of Nature, continue to in- which includes the readiness spire awe even among of the Bureau of Immigration experienced travelers. to honor the common visas ex- tended by all member coun- Sporting events tries to those traveling to the The country, known for its peo- Philippines. ple’s competitive spirit, plays The recent upgrade of the host to international sporting country’s aviation safety rating events, some of which have to category 1 should be a boost made the Philippines a regular not only for international, but part of their circuit. These in- domestic flights as well. Rein- clude the Iron Man and Xterra forced by the country’s back- Triathlons and the CWC (Ca- to-back investment upgrades marines Sur Watersports Com- and high economic growth plex) International performance, DOT attributes Wakeboarding Competition. job generation to foreign tour- Local sporting events such as ism revenues, which reached the International Dragon Boat more than $24 billion for the Race in Boracay and the myriad first six months of 2014. of marathons and triathlons, in- This year is perfect for the cluding fun races like the Color private sector, which includes Manila Run and zombie runs, airlines, hotels, resorts, restau- have attracted international at- rants, event organizers, and tention and participation. travel and transportation agen- These events and more help cies, to entice foreigners to visit establish the country as a the Philippines. major sports venue for sea- soned and budding athletes Fun in the Philippines where they can discover and To drum up more interest for enjoy the surrounding scenery VPY 2015, the DOT has given and natural resources. alli- its website a makeover, redi- ances between organizers and recting its home page to the the tourism industry help revitalized “It’s More Fun in

Metrobank Japan extends its warmest welcome to His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino lll of the Republic of the Philippines on His State Visit to Japan.

Tokyo Branch Osaka Sub-Branch 1-19-1, Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0054 4-2-5, Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0053 Tel. 03-5281-7281 Tel. 06-6252-1333

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