Welcome!

The Philippines  is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining Asian, European, and American influences. Prior to Spanish colonization in 1521, the Filipinos had a rich culture and were trading with the Chinese and the Japanese. Spain's colonization brought about the construction of Intramuros in 1571, a "Walled City" comprised of European buildings and churches, replicated in different parts of the archipelago. In 1898, after 350 years and 300 rebellions, the Filipinos, with leaders like Jose Rizal and Emilio Aguinaldo, succeeded in winning their independence.

In 1898, the Philippines became the first and only colony of the United States. Following the Philippine-American War, the United States brought widespread education to the islands. Filipinos fought alongside Americans during World War II, particularly at the famous battle of Bataan and Corregidor which delayed Japanese advance and saved Australia. They then waged a guerilla war against the Japanese from 1941 to 1945. The Philippines regained its independence in 1946. Filipinos are a freedom-loving people, having waged two peaceful, bloodless revolutions against what were perceived as corrupt regimes. The Philippines is a vibrant democracy, as evidenced by 12 English national newspapers, 7 national television stations, hundreds of cable TV stations, and 2,000 radio stations. Filipinos are a fun-loving people. Throughout the islands, there are fiestas celebrated everyday and foreign guests are always welcome to their homes.

Calendar of Events

LIGHT A TREE December 1 || Mendoza Park, Puerto Princesa City
Lighting of the giant Christmas Tree in the City park which signals the start of the holiday season.

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE December 1 - December 8 || Iligan City
A competition of arts and other forms of Christmas decors primarily using Lady''s Choice byproducts.

PASKO SA KAPITOLYO December 1 - December 31 || Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros
Decoration of the Capitol Building and lighted lanterns in trees of Freedom Park.

PASKUHAN SA IMUS December 1 - December 31 || Imus, Cavite
A month long festival that celebrates our unique Philippine Christmas holiday.

ILONGGO LANTERN FESTIVAL December 1- December 31 || Iloilo City
A festival contest of giant lanterns made of native materials. The event is sponsored by Marymart Mall, Dept. Of Tourism, DTOK and DYMB.

PASKUHAN AT KANTAHAN SA KAPITOLYO December 15 - 23 || Provincial Capitol, Puerto Princesa City
Reliving the Christmas spirit with activities like Carol Singing, Payanig sa Kapitolyo, Tunog Tao, and Parada ng Lechon to celebrate the holiday season.

PANTATAN FESTIVAL December 15 - December 19 || Zarraga, Iloilo
The main purpose of this festival is to promote the town of Zarraga as one of the major producers and trading center of “pantat” in Panay Island. Among the festival activities are the ff: Grand Parade & Street Dancing, Pantat Cooking Contest, Search for Lin-ay sang Zarraga and many more.







Announcements

Important Warnings: Several complaints and reports have reached the Department of Tourism (DOT) regarding the unscrupulous practices of a certain DISCOUNT FAMILY ADVENTURE (DFA) TRAVEL & TOURS, INC. with the following websites: www.discounthotelresort.com www.balikbayantrip.com www.islandbreezeholidays.com www.aarontours.com
www.wedoonline.com
Said agency is not accredited with the DOT. Likewise, Mayor Pewee Trinidad of Pasay City already ordered its closure. Please do not transact or do business with this agency.

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Updates

DOT arranges tourism program and schedule with Austria In the midst during the meeting at the Tyrol governor’s office: Philippine Ambassador to Austria Linglingay Lacanlale, Austrian Federal Ministry...             read article