Famed for its historical landmarks, well-made guitars, tasty dried mangoes, and great seafood, Cebu City is the 10th Philippine City to gain such an honor.
“From the historic Magellan’s cross planted in the heart of the city, to the city’s magnificent hotels, pristine beaches and diving spots, colorful religious and tourist festivals and vibrant industries—you name it, Cebu has it,” said Department of Foreign Affairs, ASEAN Affairs Executive Director Olivia Palala during the awarding ceremonies in Cebu.
Cebu City also hosts the Sinulog festival, one of the country’s popular celebrations. It also boasts of the glorious dive site Malapascua and the long stretch of white sand beach in Bantayan.
Other ASEAN cities of culture are Manila, Angono in Rizal, Tarlac City, Angeles in Pampanga, Batangas City, Roxas in Capiz, Tagbilaran in Bohol, Cagayan de Oro in Misamis Oriental, and Dapitan in Zamboanga, according to a DFA statement.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism said at least 1.6 million foreign tourists visited the Philippines from January to May alone, boosting tourist figures by up to 12 percent.
Compared to the same period in 2010, there are at least 170,000 more tourists spending time in the Philippines, according to DoT.
“The figures reflect a 12-percent improvement almost midway into the year, and at this rate we expect to hit our target of 3.74 million for 2011. New air services and intensified promotional efforts abroad will be instrumental in sustaining this growth,” said Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim.
0 comments:
Post a Comment