Taiwanese encouraged to visit Boracay, Palawan to hike tourist arrivals

MANILA, Philippines - Taiwanese tourists are currently being encouraged to visit Boracay and Palawan, the Philippines’ leading vacation destinations, to further increase the country’s visitor arrivals. The two islands, whose beaches are considered as among the world’s best, are leading destinations for the choosy Taiwanese market, tourism officials said, citing the country’s positive feedback during the Taipei International Travel Fair (TITF) at the Taipei World Trade Center. The Philippine booth attracted Taiwanese tourism stakeholders, allowing Filipino travel agencies to update customers about their newest holiday packages. “With exhibitors from 62 countries and regions, occupying more than 1,200 units, we are pleased to say that the Taiwanese market crowded the 54-square meter Philippine booth for inquiries and bookings on Boracay and Palawan," Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace" Durano. Approximately 60,195 Taiwanese visited the Philippines during the first six months of the year. Arrivals from the said country is seen to grow, thanks to increased Taiwanese interest in the country’s beaches. "Our booth simulated a picturesque beach complete with white sands, making it the most photographed among all the others," said Eduardo Jarque, Jr., DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions. Taiwan’s cold weather may also encourage their residents to visit tropical countries such as the Philippines, tourism officials said. The cold weather in Taiwan may also encourage Taiwanese to spend the holidays in tropical countries such as the Philippines. - GMANews.TV