Filipino tourists can now enter without a visa again! The Taiwan Tourism Administration is sending a group of people to the Philippine Travel Expo and Promotion Events. They are also inviting top influencers to promote Taiwan.
Taiwan just said that Filipino travellers can now enter the country without a visa for another year, until July 31, 2026. In response, the Taiwan Tourism Administration quickly put up a Taiwan tourist delegation made up of 50 people from 25 groups, such as the Taichung City Government, travel agencies, hotels, and airlines. From July 11 to 13, the delegation will travel to the Philippines to participate in the Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2025.
The Taiwan Tourism Administration’s most recent statistics show that the visa-free policy has greatly increased travel from the Philippines. In the first quarter of 2025, 146,581 people came from the Philippines. This is a huge 29% increase from before the pandemic, making the Philippines the fastest-growing source market in the world and the largest source market in Southeast Asia.
The Taiwan Tourism Administration will build up a “Taiwan Pavilion” at TME based on its “Taiwan – Waves of Wonder” campaign for its Tourism Brand 3.0. The pavilion will use bright colours and fun features to show off how beautiful Taiwan is across all four seasons. Taipei 101, Taichung’s Rainbow Village, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival in Taitung, and the Morning Hot Springs of Green Island are all popular Instagram spots that are highlighted in the pavilion. This encourages Filipino visitors to capture unforgettable photos as they immerse themselves in Taiwan’s rich and diverse travel appeal.
The Taiwan Pavilion has asked well-known Filipino influencers, such as Carl Chuidian (The Chui Show) and Mommy Haidee, a travel vlogger, to help make this year’s campaign even more effective. Both will talk about their trips to Taiwan and the food and sights that are a must-see. People are likely to discuss the delegation’s appearances, which may encourage more Filipinos to choose Taiwan as their favourite travel destination.
Travel from the Philippines to Taiwan has been on the rise recently. Filipino tourists are drawn to Taiwan because it is close by, has a short flight time, a wide range of food, and unique attractions, such as the high-speed rail system that the Philippines doesn’t have. In 2024, Taiwan had the most Filipino tourists of any Southeast Asian country, with 467,000. The boom keeps going in 2025, with 25.38% more people coming in from January to March than in the same time in 2024. The Philippines is currently Taiwan’s top source market in Southeast Asia and sixth in the world, showing amazing performance.
The Taiwan tourism delegation will also hold promotional events in Iloilo (the Philippines’ fourth largest city) and Cebu (the second largest city) on July 15 and 16. The visit is in addition to their participation in the TME. The events will help strengthen cooperation between the two countries’ tourism industries and bring in more Filipino tourists. More than 100 important travel professionals, airline officials, and mainstream media will be at these events. They will show off Taiwan’s newest tourist attractions and incentives, with the goal of keeping the high rise in Filipino visitors coming to Taiwan and opening up new chances for Taiwan’s tourism in the Southbound market.
Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, is set to bring even more enchanting experiences to all Filipinos for its 30th anniversary, as it temporarily closes two of its major rides, the Space Shuttle and AGILA The EKsperience, from July 1 to September 30, 2025.
EK President and Chairman Cesar Mario O. Mamon shared that the major enhancement and upgrade of the two attractions are at the forefront of their ongoing park revitalization and commitment to providing more magical experiences to all parkgoers.
“Beyond our steadfast pursuit of introducing new enchanting experiences, we are also dedicated to reimagining and reengineering our existing attractions, ensuring that multi-generational guests will be forever enchanted this 2025 and the years to come,” he furthered.
We expect both attractions to reopen as part of EK’s 30th anniversary celebration in October.
The iconic rollercoaster ride, Space Shuttle, is one of EK’s legacy rides, which has been bringing thrill and excitement ever since the theme park opened its gates to the public in 1995. Aside from its signature twists and turns, the upgrade will feature a new loading and unloading experience, along with more efficient operation and monitoring of the ride.
AGILA The EKsperience, the first and only flying theater in the Philippines, has been the cornerstone of EK’s magical and educational entertainment, catering to over half a million students each year. Parkgoers experience a magical journey soaring on the wings of the Philippine eagle to witness the most iconic destinations in the country.
The reopening of AGILA will elevate learning and entertainment to new heights as it delves further into advancing awareness of environmental responsibility and sustainability.
In addition to these, EK is diligently restoring and improving all its other themed areas, attractions, and facilities, setting the stage for its milestone celebration on October 18 and 19.
Guests can still enjoy the theme park’s more than 30 rides and attractions, including EKlipse, its newest family thrill ride and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. Various enchanting events and offerings are also in store for everyone as EK continues to be the premier theme park in the country.
For more information and updates regarding these, along with EK’s other events and offers, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.
In Partnership with Mountain Man to Promote Indigenous Flavors and Culture in Baguio
Nestled in the cool climes of Baguio City, John Hay Hotels redefines hospitality by embracing Cordillera culture and community empowerment through its vibrant partnership with Mountain Man, the culinary brand of the famed Romawac family that is deeply rooted in indigenous food heritage.
Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV), the hospitality arm of Landco Pacific Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, helmed by Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, manages John Hay Hotels and leads this exciting collaboration. LLV commits not only to elevating guest experiences but also to fostering sustainable growth and welfare within the local community.
“Our vision is to create lifestyle destinations that not only showcase the natural beauty and culture of their locations but also actively contribute to the sustainability and prosperity of the local communities. Through partnerships like this with Mountain Man, we ensure that the heritage and traditions of the Cordilleras are honored and that our support helps uplift local SMEs, preserving their livelihoods for generations to come,” Patrick C. Gregorio, Head of Landco Lifestyle Ventures, emphasizes this holistic approach.
“We are also deeply committed to responsible tourism that empowers people. At John Hay Hotels, we don’t just want to offer visitors a beautiful place to stay—we want to build a thriving ecosystem where culture, community, and commerce grow hand in hand. This means supporting our local suppliers, providing fair wages and benefits to our colleagues, and creating memorable experiences that celebrate Baguio and the Cordilleras authentically,” Gregorio adds.
The Mountain Man’s signature open-fire Cordilleran dining experience on Saturdays at the Garden Wing of John Hay Hotels perfectly exemplifies this vision—offering guests an authentic, immersive taste of Cordillera heritage while supporting local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. Through this synergy, LLV and Mountain Man jointly nurture a sustainable hospitality ecosystem that honours culture, uplifts local communities, and delivers unforgettable experiences.
John Hay Hotels pays homage to Cordillera cuisine with local culinary master Mountain Man; and supports SMEs through sourcing of local ingredients.
A Culinary Journey Deeply Rooted in Cordillera Identity
Mountain Man, led by lakay ken baket, husband and wife Chavi and Millie Romawac, together with their family, is much more than a dining concept. It is the manifestation of a lifelong journey dedicated to preserving Cordillera’s indigenous culinary practices—many of which generations of elders and local communities have passed down. Their work began during the challenging pandemic years when they traveled extensively throughout the Cordillera provinces to document heirloom recipes, open-fire cooking techniques, and the cultural narratives that give these dishes meaning.
“We see food as a living story, a bridge connecting the past to the present,” shares Chavi. “Our goal is to keep these traditions alive not just as cultural artifacts but as everyday experiences that people can taste, share, and celebrate.”
“We are very happy to partner with Landco Lifestyle Ventures because we share a passion and commitment to uplifting Cordillera culture and communities. Their support enables us to bring indigenous cuisine to a wider audience while ensuring that the local farmers and artisans who make it possible are respected and valued,” Millie enthuses.
Their ‘Roofdeck Kitchen’ in Baguio has become a cultural hub where ancestral recipes meet contemporary sensibilities. This heritage now generously reaches guests at John Hay Hotels, where open-fire dinners recreate authentic Cordillera meals using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients—directly benefiting indigenous farmers and small-scale producers.
John Hay Hotels guests can savor iconic Cordillera dishes such as:
• Hinanglag — a slow-cooked pork belly inspired by Kiangan traditions, cooked in its own fat until tender and flavorful
• Pinikpikan-style Baguio Chicken Rice — featuring the indigenous chicken preparation ritual that tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor
• Mountain Man Clambake — combining locally foraged watercress and fresh seafood from Pangasinan, bridging mountain and coastal culinary traditions
• Heirloom rice dishes made with grains from Ifugao farmers, paired with indigenous vegetables from Benguet and traditional condiments
These dishes are not merely food but living expressions of Cordillera culture, reflecting indigenous rituals, storytelling, and community values passed down through generations. The open-fire cooking technique stands as a sacred practice, symbolizing a deep connection to the land and ancestral traditions.
By sourcing directly from local small-scale producers and honoring traditional culinary methods, Mountain Man and Landco Lifestyle Ventures promote not only sustainable tourism but also the preservation and celebration of Cordillera identity, empowering indigenous communities to keep their culture alive and thriving.
An Invitation to Experience Cordillera’s Rich Heritage
John Hay Hotels invites locals and visitors alike to experience this unique culinary and cultural journey every Saturday evening at The Manor’s Garden Wing. The Mountain Man open-fire dinners provide a rare opportunity to savor the flavors of the Cordilleras while supporting a sustainable ecosystem that honors heritage, empowers communities, and fosters genuine connections.
“We hope each guest leaves with more than just a meal,” says Millie Romawac.
“They take home a story, a memory, and a piece of Cordillera’s soul.”
Rediscover Landco Lifestyle Ventures managed John Hay Hotels for leading sustainable tourism and gastronomy in Baguio.
Sustainable Tourism: Celebrating Culture, Cuisine, and Active Lifestyles
Sustainability is at the core of Landco Lifestyle Ventures’ strategy for John Hay Hotels, where every initiative benefits the environment, local communities, and the broader tourism ecosystem. The Mountain Man partnership exemplifies sustainable dining tourism, sourcing heirloom rice from Ifugao farmers, fresh vegetables from Benguet growers, and seafood from nearby coastal provinces. This approach enriches the guest experience with authentic flavors while ensuring economic benefits flow directly to indigenous farmers, fishermen, and artisans—helping preserve their livelihoods and traditional practices.
Complementing this culinary tourism is John Hay Hotels’ growing role in promoting sports tourism in the Cordilleras. Recently, the hotel proudly hosted the finish line of the Tour of Luzon, a major cycling race attracting athletes and visitors from all over the country. This event showcased Baguio’s challenging mountain terrain and vibrant community spirit, drawing attention to the region as a prime destination for active, outdoor tourism.
“Our goal is to enrich the facets of Baguio tourism with diverse attractions from gastronomy, festivals to sports events. We offer visitors a rich tapestry of experiences—whether savoring indigenous flavors or engaging with Baguio’s unique natural landscapes through cycling and other outdoor activities. Hosting the Tour of Luzon finish line was also a milestone that highlighted John Hay Hotels’ commitment to sustainable tourism, blending culture, community, and healthy living.” Patrick Gregorio explains the synergy on tourism.” Gregorio states.
“Sustainable tourism is about balance—celebrating our rich heritage while preserving our environment and supporting local livelihoods. This is the legacy we want to build for Baguio and the Cordilleras,” further highlighted.
Empowering John Hay Hotels Colleagues
Beyond cultural preservation and community support, LLV takes pride in its enhanced management practices that prioritize the welfare of John Hay Hotels’ colleagues. A recent implementation of a service charge ensures that employees receive fairer compensation, fostering a more motivated and empowered workforce. This initiative is part of LLV’s commitment to professionalize hotel operations while cultivating an environment where every team member feels valued and supported.
The success of John Hay Hotels also rests on how LLV cares for its own people. Implementing a service charge was a deliberate move to improve employee welfare—an often overlooked but crucial aspect of sustainable hospitality.
“Our colleagues are the backbone of what we do,” Gregorio affirms. “Ensuring they are fairly compensated and feel supported creates a culture of pride and excellence that our guests can genuinely feel. It’s a win-win for the team, the community, and the guest experience.”
From take-off to touchdown, make your next travel worry-free with BDO
Going on vacations is one of life’s greatest joys—from exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures to creating unforgettable memories with friends and family. Unexpected mishaps and last-minute changes should not derail it.
That’s where BDO Insure Travel Insurance steps in, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Whether medical emergencies, baggage delays, or flight disruptions, BDO Insure expertly selects packages from different insurance partners to provide only the best options tailored to your needs.
Affordable options are available for travelers aged up to 75 years.
Planning a four-day visit to Asia? Coverage for emergency medical treatment benefits of up to Ph500,000 starts at Ph350. Want more protection? Boost your coverage to Ph1.5 million for just Ph463. That’s a small price to pay for a big peace of mind.
Heading to the United States for 15 days? Enjoy up to Ph1.5 million in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph917.
Planning to explore the Eiffel Tower in France? We’ve partnered with an accredited insurance provider whose plans are fully Schengen visa compliant, which is Ph2.5M in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph1,749 for a 15-day trip.
Apart from these benefits, travelers can now opt for a more comprehensive cover which includes emergency treatment of pre-existing conditions and extreme activities, reimbursement of rebooking fees, and an additional benefit for the first 4-hour delay and baggage delay for return flights.
For a more seamless experience, purchase your travel insurance in the Philippines at least four hours before your departure.
Next time you pack, remember to include peace of mind with an insurance package that lets you travel safely and enjoy every moment worry-free. BDO Insure Travel Insurance includes COVID-19 coverage, travel inconvenience benefits, and access to a 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Hotline.
BDO Insure is a registered trademark of BDO Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, Inc. (formerly BDO Insurance Brokers, Inc.), an insurance broker licensed and supervised by the Insurance Commission of the Philippines. Its financial products are not deposit products. The PDIC does not insure these products, nor does BDO Unibank, Inc. guarantee them.
For inquiries and concerns, please call our BDO Insure Contact Center at (02) 8838-2364. The BDO Insure trademarks are owned by BDO Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Discover how you can unlock exclusive travel promos with the GCash Card
Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore – these are just some of the top destinations of Pinoy travelers last year. Whether it’s a quick getaway, an adventure abroad, or a return trip to your favorite country, making your #travelgoals a reality starts with good planning.
With 2025 well underway and everyone eager to tick off the countries on their bucket lists, here are a few tips and tricks for a fun, stress-free, and memorable trip abroad while ensuring you always get the most out of your money.
Create a travel budget and track all your expenses
It is so easy to get carried away by the sheer excitement of traveling abroad. This excitement can sometimes lead travellers to make expensive mistakes, such as booking overpriced hotels, planning too many costly activities in their itinerary, or purchasing excessive clothes and souvenirs that exceed their baggage allowance.
While it’s wonderful to splurge once in a while for a trip abroad, setting a budget can help you financially stay on track and prevent unexpected expenses. Who knows? You might save enough to be able to go on another trip later in the year!
An easy way to keep an eye on your budget is by tracking all your expenses in a notebook, an online spreadsheet, or an app – what matters is finding what works best to help you stay on top of your expenses so you can see where you can ease off on spending.
Research, research, and research
With a set budget in mind, your next planning focus would be finding the most ideal flights, accommodations, and tours. Now, research options to see if they meet your needs. Researching for your trip can be as simple (and fun!) as reading blog posts and watching travel videos about your dream destination. You can also check out reviews of certain hotels, restaurants, and activities to see whether they’re worth booking or not.
Before you finalize anything, make sure you also take a look at online promos and discounts, because it’s usually cheaper to book in advance online, rather than when you get to your destination. Also, make sure the travel apps and websites you’ll be booking on are safe and legit!
Get exclusive deals with your GCash VISA Card
One way you can unlock exclusive travel deals is by paying with the GCash VISA Card. Available in 200+ countries and territories and with over 80 million merchants, the GCash Card opens up endless possibilities – from the planning stages of your trip until you’re at your destination.
Using your GCash Card to pay for hotel bookings at Agoda gives you an exclusive 8% discount. Lifestyle and travel content creator Kara Rodriguez knows all about this convenient deal. During her recent stay in Cebu with her mom, she was able to take advantage of a hotel booking discount that provided everything she needed to truly connect with her mom! Check out her vlog here, and remember that with smart planning and your GCash Card always on hand, you can secure deals just like Kara did.
But that’s not all! You can also book hotel stays with IHG and use your GCash Card for up to 20% off in participating hotels in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Maldives, Laos, Japan, Micronesia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific Islands!
Enjoy your travel adventure
With your bookings finalized, time to pack your bags, grab your passport, and get your OOTDs ready. Take lots of photos and videos, check out your destination’s hottest food and culture spots, and make unforgettable memories. Most of all, don’t forget to bring the all-new VISA-powered GCash Card with you for more convenient travels!
Easily order one without the need for required documents through the GCash app; turn your #travelgoals into a reality! To learn more, visit GCash at www.new.gcash.com/services/cards.
Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, introduces yet another magical twist to the tradition of egg hunting at Eldar’s Easter Adventure on Sunday, April 20.
As part of The Enchanted Story of Eldar the Wizard campaign from April and June, guests will embark on a fun-filled quest with EK’s beloved characters — Eldar the Wizard, Benny, T-Tops, and Ogg — as they search for special egg stickers through exciting activities around the park.
Aside from trying out rides, attractions and spectacular shows, kids and the young-at-heart can channel their wit and creativity through eduFUN, EK’s very own educational and fun activities.
Exciting prizes and surprises await the lucky participants who will be able to complete Eldar’s Easter Adventure. Those who stood out in their best on-theme attire will also receive special treats from the theme park’s jolly and wise wizard.
To unlock this whole magical experience, avail the Eldar’s Easter Adventure bundle, inclusive of Park access and event pass. Enjoy early bird rates when you book this limited-time offering at the EK Online Store on or before Saturday, April 19.
The Regular Day Pass for kids 48 inches and taller costs Php 1,300, the Junior Day Pass for kids 32 to 47 inches costs Php 900, and the EKsperience the Magic Card (EKMC) costs Php 3,800. Existing EKMC members will also get access to this enchanting event with a special rate of Php 300.
Walk-in guests can avail themselves of the event bundle for its regular rate, subject to slot availability.
For more information and updates regarding Eldar’s Easter Adventure and EK’s other upcoming events and offers, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.
