Now in its 30th year, Enchanted Kingdom — the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines — continues to be one of the lead advocates for local industry development, following the recent induction of its Chief Operating Officer, Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., as the president of the PCCI-Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (LCCI).

The induction ceremony of newly elected LCCI officers was held on February 16, 2026 at Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna led by Area Vice President Hoover Picar and Regional Governor Mary Ann Katigbak.

In her acceptance of this role, Mamon said, “We are committed to focus on Livelihood and labor concerns, Corporate sustainability, Community empowerment, and Innovation with integrity. These four principles support Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) South Luzon’s guiding principles as presented by AVP Hoover Picar, namely Volunteerism, Excellence, Service, and Integrity (VESI). Through these, we look forward to transforming the lives of the people working for our companies and the communities we serve.”

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, LCCI is a non-stock, non-profit, non-government organization, comprised of Laguna-based small, medium, and large enterprises, dedicated to foster a stronger, sustainable local economy, and promote growth, resilience and competitiveness of the business community in the province.

Present during the induction ceremony were Department of Labor and Employment-National Conciliation and Mediation Board IV-A Director Cynthia Foncardas, Laguna Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEPIDO) Laguna Head Fatima Villaseñor, PCCI Los Baños President Grace Bondad Nicolas, PCCI Quezon City President Anne Marie Francisco, and PCCI Lipa City President Marites Jumarang. They were joined by past presidents of LCCI namely Atty. Rose Lynn Zara-Coloma, Marvin Adolfo, Virgilio Lorenzo, Richard Albert Osmond, and EK’s President and Chairman Cesar Mario O. Mamon.

An economic briefing by Prof. Ronilo Balbieran, economist at the University of Asia and the Pacific followed after the induction ceremony.

Even prior to this, EK has been a longstanding active member of LCCI, as Mr. Mamon also served as its president from 2006 to 2007.

Championing tourism

Mrs. Mamon was also reelected as the president of the Laguna Tourism Council (LTC), officially assuming the new term together with the other newly elected LTC officers during the oath taking ceremony administered by Governor Sol Aragones on January 22, 2026 in Santa Cruz, Laguna.

LTC is a provincial multi-sectoral body composed of representatives from various government and private organizations, serving as one of the main drivers in developing Laguna into a premier tourism destination in the Philippines.

Under Dr. Mamon’s leadership ever since she stepped into the role in 2023, LTC has been working closely with the provincial government of Laguna, along with other local offices and non-government organizations across the country in promoting tourism, culture, heritage, and the arts to both domestic and foreign audiences.

Aside from this, they also support Laguna-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing platforms to showcase their world-class products and crafts through LTC’s various events and collaborations happening inside and outside the province.

For more information and updates regarding these and EK’s initiatives towards industry growth, sustainability, and tourism, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.

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The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) launched its flagship Travel Tour Expo (TTE) at the SMX Convention Center on February 6, not just as a travel sale, but as a showcase for an industry that has largest tourism economy in ASEAN according to the latest World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) data.

PTAA President Jaison Yang framed this ascendancy as a call to mindful leadership. “We invite everyone to experience this expo with open hearts and minds,” Yang declared. “Challenge assumptions. Offer new perspectives. And through it all, never forget to tell others about the beauty of the Philippines.”

That beauty, according to the WTTC, now translates into unprecedented economic power. This macro-scale achievement was immediately humanized by Philippine Tourism Secretary Cristina Garcia-Frasco as she connected the landmark statistic to its grassroots engine: the country’s workforce.

“Tourism helps people to gain livelihood, gain from each other,” Frasco stated, highlighting that this “biggest economy” status is built on the backs of the 23 percent of the nation’s labor force employed in the sector. Describing the government’s role in sustaining this growth, she emphasized a ground-level approach: “The work is about showing up. Be on the ground, listen to stakeholders.”

PTAA Chairperson Mariegel Tankiang-Manotok agrees with Frasco, saying that tourism provides the perfect collaborative framework for the private and public sectors.

The expo floor became a living tableau of this top-tier economy. Alongside glittering displays from international destinations were expansive, dynamic booths promoting Philippine regions from Palawan to Pangasinan—a direct channel fueling the domestic market that underpins the nation’s Asian lead. The energy was not merely about booking holidays, but about investing in the economic ecosystem.

The convergence of data—Asia’s biggest tourism economy, ASEAN’s best destination, nearly a quarter of the national workforce—created a powerful narrative at SMX. The challenge now, as articulated by both Yang’s visionary ambassadorship and Frasco’s stakeholder-focused pragmatism, is to steward this top position. It demands travel that is sustainable, inclusive, and worthy of the communities that form its foundation.

The event opened not just with promotional flair, but with the gravity of an industry recognizing its scale and its duty to millions of Filipinos whose livelihoods it supports.

The PTAA Travel Tour Expo runs until February 8 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Aisa (MOA) Complex, Pasay City.

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The Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) Philippines launched on July 15, 2025 the 11th Virtus Awards, a milestone edition that elevates the prestigious program beyond recognizing excellence in hotel sales and marketing to champion the critical mission of empowering the next generation of industry leaders.

With the theme “Paths & Bridges: Leading the Way and Building Continuity,” this year’s Virtus Awards serve as both tribute and challenge: honoring the trailblazers who have defined Philippine hospitality while challenging today’s leaders to build new bridges of knowledge, mentorship, and innovation toward a future shaped by younger professionals. 

“It’s a vision that aligns with HSMA’s core educational pillar and the industry’s broader goals of travel recovery, tourism growth, wellness, and sustainable leadership development,” said Loleth So, HSMA President.  

The official launch coincided with HSMA’s General Membership Meeting at Fairmont Makati, featuring keynote speaker Therese “Gang” Badoy Capati, President of Rock Ed Philippines and trauma therapist. Her presentation, “Rock the Talk,” addressed the vital need for effective communication across multi-generational teams in today’s rapidly evolving hospitality landscape.

“Gang Capati shared compelling insights on bridging the generational divide within our teams,” says Rose Libongco, Virtus Awards Chair. “This responds directly to the industry’s call for more coherent and collaborative teamwork. We encourage leaders to bring their teams, the new generation must understand the journey that brought us here, just as we must understand the paths they are forging.”

The Virtus X-factor: Going beyond performance

As in previous years, the 11th Virtus Awards continues to seek individuals and teams who go beyond delivering results in order to influence genuine change. The coveted X-factor encompasses not only exceptional performance but also the courage to innovate, the ability to mentor, and the vision to lead with empathy and foresight. “Whether reviving destinations, building new markets, or creating campaigns that restore traveler confidence, Virtus XI honors those who redefine industry standards and elevate the bar for excellence,” adds Margarita Munsayac, HSMA Chair.   

This year’s edition introduces enhanced judging criteria that reflect post-pandemic travel realities, an expanded network of industry partners, and a platform for sharing stories of resilience and innovation. These updates position Virtus XI as potentially the most meaningful and impactful edition in the program’s history. There will still be three solo awards:  Outstanding Sales and Marketing Associate, Outstanding Sales and Marketing Manager, and Outstanding Sales and Marketing Leader.  The sole group category is the Institutional Award for Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign of the Year.

Properties and hotel groups that have taken home multiple Virtus Awards include The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts, Chroma Hospitality Group, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, and Conrad Manila.

Last year, the Virtus Award for Outstanding Sales and Marketing Associate was given to Belmont Hotel Manila eCommerce Executive Mika Paula Bustillo and The Ascott Limited Assistant Manager for Content & Graphics Christian Paulo Morales. Midas Hotel and Casino Senior Sales Manager for Rooms Ma. Fe Pulga received the Virtus Award for Outstanding Sales and Marketing Manager, and the honor of Outstanding Sales and Marketing Leader was bestowed upon Erwin Fidel Doña III, Director of Marketing and Communications at Novotel and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts won the Institutional Award for Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign of the Year, for its “The Sampaguita” campaign.

Cultivating tomorrow’s leaders today

Beyond its role as an awards platform, Virtus has evolved into a movement for excellence and mentorship. Through strategic educational initiatives, including this year’s keynote and ongoing thought leadership programs, HSMA encourages member properties to develop the next generation of marketers who are digitally savvy, emotionally intelligent, and culturally sensitive.

“We are intentional about building continuity,” emphasizes Libongco, HSMA Virtus Awards Chair. “This year’s program isn’t just about celebrating today’s stars, it’s about illuminating the path for tomorrow’s leaders and ensuring our industry’s knowledge and values transfer seamlessly across generations.”

HSMA expands its ranks with new members

The HSMA also proudly welcomed its newly inducted members this year, further strengthening its network of tourism and hospitality professionals across the country.

1. Tag Hotels & Resorts  – Official Rep: Mayette Sagales-Delfin, Director of Sales and Marketing

2. Via Appia Tagaytay  – Official Rep: Dr. Richard Dela Rosa, Chairman

3. Sol Y Viento – Official Rep: Shanen Sultaire Nogus, Director of Sales and Marketing

4. Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas – Corinna Reyes, Director of Sales and Marketing

5. Alpha Suites – Elgie Bryan R. Goyonan, Director of Sales

6. H Resort-The Coral Cliff – Anna Maria Dolor-Fernandez, General Manager

7. Vivere Hotel – Agot Serrano, General Manager

The growing roster reflects HSMA’s continuing commitment to uplift industry standards, promote collaboration, and foster innovation among hospitality leaders. Their induction marks a renewed energy within the organization as it builds stronger “paths and bridges” for the next generation of tourism professionals.

The XI Virtus Awards is presented by HSMA, the Department of Tourism, and Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, with the support of Raffles Makati and Fairmont Makati. For more information and partnership inquiries, visit hsma.org.ph or like and follow @HSMAPH on Facebook and Instagram.

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Beyond the busy streets of Manila lies a city rich in history and culture, now more accessible than ever for Caviteños via the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX). Motorists from Las Piñas and Parañaque may also use the CAVITEX Sucat Interchange, with entry along Dr. A. Santos Avenue, for a more convenient route to these destinations. On March 14, 2025, Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South) successfully hosted Biyaheng South: Tara, Let’s Explore Manila, an immersive cultural tour made possible through partnerships with Intramuros Administration, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo, and Space & Time Cube. This unique experience allowed selected Ka-Biyaheros to rediscover Manila through a seamless blend of history, interactive exhibits, and local flavors—all just a quick and convenient drive from Cavite via CAVITEX.

Three lucky winners, along with their chosen guests, were selected through an online raffle on Biyaheng South’s Facebook page. They joined influencers on an exciting journey to some of Manila’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.

First stop: Intramuros – A walk through history

The first stop was the historic walls of Intramuros, just an hour away from Cavite via CAVITEX. The Intramuros Heritage Tour began at Palacio del Gobernador, a historic Spanish-era building near Manila Cathedral, setting the stage for a journey through time. From there, participants boarded a Tranvia, a charming electric streetcar reminiscent of Manila’s early 20th-century rail transport, for a nostalgic ride through the streets of Intramuros.

The group then visited Fort Santiago, a centuries-old citadel that once served as a military stronghold and the final prison of Dr. José Rizal. Inside, they explored Museo ni Rizal, where they gained insights into the life and works of the national hero. Next, they proceeded to Centro de Turismo to explore Museo de Intramuros, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and colonial-era art that highlight the Spanish influence on Philippine culture.

The tour also included stops at Baluarte de San Diego, one of the oldest stone wall structures in Intramuros, and Casa Manila, a beautifully reconstructed Spanish colonial home that offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of Filipinos during the 19th century. After the tour, our Ka-Biyaheros enjoyed a delightful lunch at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, where they savored authentic Filipino cuisine—adding another layer of cultural immersion to their journey.

Second stop: Immersive experience at Space & Time Cube PH

From history to innovation, the journey continued at Space & Time Cube PH at S’Maison, Pasay—an interactive art space that blends art, technology, and imagination, offering a fresh perspective on modern Manila. The museum provided participants with a mesmerizing visual spectacle, where shifting lights, dynamic soundscapes, and interactive exhibits created an otherworldly experience—a striking contrast to their historical exploration of Intramuros.

Third stop: Sensory-filled journey at Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo

The final stop was Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, a multi-sensory museum showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage. The participants were greeted with life-sized displays of food and realistic recreations of traditional Filipino markets and kitchens. One of the highlights was the interactive tasting experience, where participants sampled iconic Filipino treats. In addition to this, the museum’s vibrant, Instagram-worthy setups added to the experience, making it both fun and educational.

Why we do this

Arlette V. Capistrano, Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management of MPT South, said, “Exploring Manila’s rich history through this event was a unique and immersive experience. It was an opportunity to reconnect with our history and culture while fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage, allowing them to see the beauty of our past while enjoying the present. We hope this inspires more travelers to rediscover the cultural gems in our own backyard.”

“Tara, Let’s Explore Manila” was launched to provide a unique opportunity for travelers to rediscover the rich history, heritage, and hidden gems of the country’s capital. Manila, often seen as just a gateway to other destinations, holds centuries of history and vibrant culture waiting to be explored. Through this initiative, MPT South sought to showcase the beauty and significance of the city’s historical sites, immersive museums, and cultural landmarks, reinforcing the company’s mission of enhancing connectivity—not only through expressways but also by fostering deeper connections between people and places.

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