MANILA – The Philippines remains committed to investing in tourism and improving the travel experience for tourists, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos said.
The First Lady made the assurance before tourism stakeholders, including business leaders, at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Tourism Night at New World Makati Hotel.
Mrs. Marcos said the administration recognizes the tourism sector as a key economic driver, which contributed 8.9 percent to the country’s 2024 Gross Domestic Product.
“So, this is why this administration is investing in better airports, stronger connectivity, and smoother travel experiences,” she said.
“As my husband always says, more tourists, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people. Needless to say, this cannot be done without the private sector. So, on behalf of my husband, thank you very much to all of you,” she added, acknowledging the 16 MOPC awardees.
The 16 MOPC Grand Tourism awardees are Sonya’s Garden, Rodeo Masbateño, New World Hotel Makati, Shangri-La Hotel The Fort, Rajah Tours and Travel, Discovery World Corporation, Clark Development Corporation, Globe Telecom, GT Capital Holdings, Aboitiz Infracapital, Alliance Global Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, and MVP Group of Companies.
Representatives and presidents of the firms and organizations received the recognition.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said tourism’s gains and role in the employment of nearly seven million Filipinos under the administration “are not by accident.”
“These have been the result of deliberate strategic interventions to ensure the long-term resilience of the industry,” she said.
Mrs. Marcos was also honored with the MOPC Transformative Power Award.
Manila Overseas Press Club
The Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) is a prestigious organization established in 1945 to promote journalism and foster camaraderie among foreign correspondents and local media professionals in the Philippines. It serves as a platform for press freedom, networking, and professional development, hosting events with key figures in politics, business, and culture. Over the decades, the MOPC has played a significant role in shaping Philippine media and upholding journalistic integrity.
New World Makati Hotel
The New World Makati Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Makati City, Philippines, known for its elegant accommodations and prime location near shopping and business districts. Opened in the 1990s, it has been a prominent hospitality landmark, blending modern amenities with Filipino hospitality. The hotel is part of the New World Hotels & Resorts brand, which has a strong reputation in Asia for upscale service and comfort.
Sonya’s Garden
Sony’s Garden is a charming eco-friendly retreat and restaurant located in Tagaytay, Philippines, known for its lush organic gardens and tranquil ambiance. Established by Sonya Garcia, it offers farm-to-table dining featuring fresh, homegrown ingredients, and promotes wellness through nature-inspired activities. The site has become a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, healthy cuisine, and a connection to sustainable living.
Rodeo Masbateño
The **Rodeo Masbateño** is an annual festival held in Masbate, Philippines, celebrating the province’s cowboy culture and cattle-raising heritage. Originating in the 1990s, it features thrilling rodeo competitions like bull riding, lassoing, and cattle wrestling, inspired by traditional ranch skills. The event highlights Masbate’s unique identity as the “Rodeo Capital of the Philippines,” blending sport, culture, and local pride.
Shangri-La Hotel The Fort
The Shangri-La Hotel The Fort is a luxury hotel located in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Manila, Philippines. Opened in 2017, it is part of the upscale Shangri-La chain and features modern architecture, high-end amenities, and panoramic city views. The hotel reflects the vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere of BGC, a rapidly developing financial and lifestyle district in Metro Manila.
Rajah Tours and Travel
Rajah Tours and Travel appears to be a travel agency rather than a specific cultural or historical site, so detailed historical information may not be available. Such agencies typically specialize in organizing tours, transportation, and travel experiences, possibly focusing on regional or international destinations. If it has a particular cultural significance—such as being a long-standing business in a specific location—further local research would be needed to provide historical context.
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Discovery World Corporation
Discovery World Corporation is a science and technology museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, known for its interactive exhibits focused on freshwater ecosystems, innovation, and Great Lakes shipping. Opened in 2006, it replaced the earlier Discovery World Museum (founded in 1984) and features attractions like the Reiss Modular Lab and the S/V Denis Sullivan, a replica 19th-century schooner. The museum aims to inspire learning through hands-on experiences and exploration of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) topics.
Clark Development Corporation
The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is a government-owned and controlled corporation in the Philippines, established in 1993 to manage and transform the former Clark Air Base—a major U.S. military facility—into a special economic zone. Following the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 and the U.S. military’s withdrawal, the area was repurposed to boost economic growth through industrial, tourism, and aviation investments. Today, the CDC oversees Clark Freeport Zone, a thriving business and leisure hub north of Manila.
