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7:56 am | Thursday, August 11th, 2011
CEBU CITY—Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim and Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia will lead the world’s industry leaders in opening the three-day Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events (MICE) Conference 2011 at the Cebu International Convention Center at 9 a.m. today (Thursday). Garcia will deliver the welcome remarks and Lim the opening message shortly after the opening rites with a powerhouse of MICE experts and guests from the United States, France, Ireland, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. There are 424 delegates to the conference organized by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board. The foreign experts include Asia-Pacific regional director Noor Ahmad Hamid of the International Congress and Convention Association; productivity technology consultant and writer Corbin Ball of Corbin Ball Associates, USA; hospitality management and marketing leader Max Hitchins of Varanu Pty Ltd. and general manager John Peacock of Associations Forum Pty Ltd, Australia; chief executive officer Leslie Choudhury of Dreamz Image International and Sun Island Travel, Singapore; managing director Bill LaViolette of I&MI Media, France; and president Hitesh Mehta of HM Design, USA. The other speakers are social entrepreneur and co-owner Pacita Juan of ECHOstore Sustainable Lifestyle; Tokyo-based sustainable tourism and hospitality and events management guru Susan Santos Cardenas; national steering committee chair Agnes de Jesus of Small Grants Programme for Biodiversity of the UN Development Program; certified trainer and energy manager Eric Raymundo of the Asean Center for Energy; president and founder Monette Iturralde-Hamlin of TeamAsia; cofounder Carlos M. Libosada Jr. of My Travel Philippines; CEO Hans Eric Chua of Blueblade Technologies; chief marketing officer Tai Parata of Travel Ensogo; president Marisa D. Nallana of Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibitions Organizers and Suppliers; international director Richard Holmes of Meetings and International League Against Epilepsy. DOT-EYES-BIG-DEALS-AT-MICE-MART-FOR-VARIOUS-TOURISM-TRAVEL-SECTORS
MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) is eyeing huge deals for the country’s various tourism and travel sectors that will participate in the forthcoming Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events Conference (MICECON). Slated at the Cebu International Convention Center on Aug. 10 to 13, MICECON 2011 includes MICE Mart, a pre-scheduled whole-day business-to-business session between foreign and local buyers and Philippine sellers of MICE travel products and services, according to Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim. “We have invited selected foreign MICE buyers from Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and Australia to do business with our local suppliers during the MICE Mart,” Lim said. “These buyers are likewise MICE professionals in their own countries who can bring international events and groups to the Philippines,” Lim added. The DOT, through its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), has also invited buyers from all over the country who can bring local events to Cebu and take the lead in bidding for the holding of certain international events in the Philippines. Constituting the estimated 50 foreign and local buyers are corporate end-users of incentive programs, association executives, MICE organizers, travel agencies, tour operators, and destination management firms. “In effect, we are practically gathering the global MICE industry in a single venue, and providing them with all the business linkages and opportunities for supply contracts, marketing tie-ups, joint ventures in MICE investments and projects, and other lucrative deals while strategically promoting Cebu and the rest of the Philippines as an international MICE destination,” Lim said. The MICECON secretariat is still accepting applicants for local hosted buyers. Associations and corporations that regularly hold meetings, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, events, sales rally, seminars, and trainings or provide incentive travel to their employees are invited to participate in MICECON 2011 as hosted buyers. All local buyers are entitled to complimentary conference registration inclusive of kit and badge, complimentary accommodations in MICECON’s partner business and luxury hotels in Cebu, complimentary shuttle service in Cebu (hotel to conference and event venues), all meals during the conference, and inclusion of company name in the MICECON 2011 directory. Those interested to participate as a buyer can coordinate with the MICECON 2011 secretariat at the TPB or with the DOT regional offices. Call 525-6110, 525-6635 or 525-9318, fax at 521-6165, e-mail at micecon2011regn@yahoo.com or cit.unit@gmail.com or visit www.micecon.net. With the theme “I share. You connect. We change,” MICECON 2011 emphasizes the need to adapt to an evolving global MICE market and its complexities. The theme will be highlighted in the MICECON seminars involving at least 20 experts from all over the world and several top Filipino corporate moguls as speakers. “They (speakers) will share their expertise with some 300 participants in this international event (MICECON), which is strategically designed to draw global attention to the Philippines as an international MICE hub in this part of the world,” Lim said. MICECON 2011 is organized by the DOT through the TPB, with the full support of the province of Cebu, the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS), the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC), and the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions (MITE) Philippines Inc. The conference is also supported by Philippine Airlines, Duty Free Philippines, the Cebu City government, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu, Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort, Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort and Spa, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Cebu Parklane Hotel, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, Movenpick Resort and Spa Cebu, Primer Group of Companies, Centrex Corp., Ensogo-Philippines, American Express, and the provincial government of Bohol. Source: http://www.philstar.com Philippine M.I.C.E Conference 2011 in Cebu (MICECON 2011) Thursday, July 21, 2011
http://estoryahe-tanancebu.blogspot.com/2011/07/philippine-mice-conference-2011-in-cebu.html
Cebu brace for the Philippine MICECON 2011 or the Meetings, Incentive, Travel, Conventions, Exhibits / Events Conference. The PhilMICE Conference 2011 or MICECON 2011 will be held in Cebu after it bested Davao City, Camarines Sur, Bohol, Ilocos and Gen. Santos City. Last years MICECON was held in Subic. This years MICECON will be on August 10 to 13, 2011. MICECON 2011 will carry the theme " I Share, You Connect, We Change." Photo from: http://www.micecon.net The Philippine MICE Conference (MICECON 2011) is the Philippines main tourism event which caters mainly to the MICE industry, specifically the meetings, incentive, travel, conventions, exhibitions/events market. The MICECON aims to strengthen and consolidate all the players in the M.I.C.E industry as it provides an ideal avenue for a detailed educational program for all the sectors concerned. MICECON 2011 is organized by the Department of Tourism in partnership with the Cebu Provincial Government, the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition organizers and Suppliers, the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC) and the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions (MITE) Philippines Inc. MICECON 2011 is expected to attract 350 foreign and local tour operators and will therefore benefit Cebu's tourism industry and economy and the nearby provinces in the region as well. The MICECON 2011 is a great opportunity for Cebu to show the world its potential as an alternative MICE destination. Here are the list of the Official Hotels / Resorts and participating Hotels / Resorts for the delegates of the MICECON 2011 Official Hotels / Resorts Deluxe Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort and Spa Marco Polo Plaza Radisson Blue Hotel Shangri-la's Mactan Resort And Spa First Class Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino Standard Cebu Parklane International Hotel Participating Hotels / Resorts: Deluxe / AAA resort Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu Plantation Bay Resort And Spa First Class / AA Resort BE Resort Mactan Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino Standard / A Resort Alpa City Suites Cebu Grand Hotel Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan Marriot Hotel Sarrosa International Hotel & Residential Suites Economy Mango Park Hotel Here are some of the programme the delegates should look out for during the MICECON 2011 in Cebu. On the first day of the MICECON 2011, August 10, the delegates will have the chance to see the "Dancing Inmates " of Cebu at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) at Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City. On the Second day of MICECON 2011 will be plenary sessions on very interesting topics like; "Asia- Pacific Tourism Trends" with speaker Mr. Noor Ahmad Hamid, the Asia Pacific Regional Director of International Congress and Convention Association. "Meetings Technology in Troubled Times: How to Do More With Less" with Mr. Corbin Ball as the Speaker, who is the Owner of Corbin Ball Associates, U.S.A. "The Zebra Marketing Principle" whose speaker is Mr. Max Hitchins FASI AMAMI, the Hospitality Management and Marketing Leader of Varanu Pty. Ltd of Australia. There will also be breakout educational tracks on MICECON 2011 with topics about; Convention and Association Management, Activating Strong and Viable Associations, Understanding the Incentive Business, Exhibitions Management, Explosive Marketing Ideas, How to Evaluate and Track Print and Electronic Media to Maximize ROI, Using Social Media to Market, Manage and Improve. On the second day of MICECON 2011, the Governor of Cebu will host a Governor's Night Dinner Reception dubbed as "Strings and Mangoes" for all the delegates of MICECON 2011 at the Cebu International Convention Center. Day 3 of MICECON 2011 will have the theme: "Green is In". All the particioants of MICECON 2011 are asked to wear all white with a green hat or anything green as the plenary topics would focus on the environment and sustainability. "One Cebu" will also be presented by the Vice Governor of Cebu - Agnes Magpale. Day 4 of MICECON 2011 will have the theme "MICE Mart GlamCamp". Every delegates of MICECON 2011 is requested to wear glamping attire. There will be M.I.C.E Mart B2B sessions with foreign and local buyers of M.I.C.E. products at the Shangri-la's Mactan Resort and Spa. There will also be a "Pasigarbo sa Sugbo" Spectacular at the Cebu International Convention Center. For more information on MICECON 2011 in Cebu, contact the MICECON 2011 Secretariat LIKE THEM ON FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Philippine-MICE-Conference-2011 OR VISIT THEIR SITE: http://www.micecon.net This should not be just the effort of the tourism industry and the organizers but the effort of all Cebuanos to make this a successful event, 'coz in the end we would be the beneficiaries of the effects of this event. Suporta ta bai!
https://sites.google.com/a/naitas-cebu.org/naitas-cebu/announcement/micecon2011 The Philippine Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, Exhibitions / Events Conference (MICECON 2011) is the Philippines’ premiere tourism event which focuses on the M.I.C.E. Market. It consolidates and strengthens all sectors involved in the M.I.C.E. industry. It provides the ideal platform for a comprehensive educational program for Philippine M.I.C.E. and tourism practitioners that includes plenary sessions on major topics affecting the tourism industry; as well as industry specific workshops on convention and association management, incentive travel, exhibition and events management, and marketing. The Department of Tourism (DOT) through its marketing and promotions arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), will stage the 11th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) on 30 August to 01 September 2011 at the SMX Convention Center. With the theme “Philippines: Undiscovered Treasures,” PHITEX 2011 unfolds the country’s hidden gems, best-kept secrets and natural bounties scattered throughout its 7,107 islands. From the stunning geographical landscapes, verdant vistas, sun-blessed shores, prolific underwater life and the myriad of adventures on offer, to the vibrant nightlife, remarkable shopping and delectable cuisine, unique destinations and activities will be introduced and promoted during the event. With the main objective of sustaining the growth of inbound tourists to the Philippines, the Travel Exchange or TRAVEX, the principal module of PHITEX , which will be held on 01 September, will provide a venue for invited Foreign Buyers of tourism products and services , to transact business with Philippine Sellers on a one-on-one pre- scheduled business appointments. The Pre and Post Tours will be an experiential tour for the Buyers bringing them to the highlighted attractions that are critical in their decision making. On the other hand, the Educational Seminars on 31 August for Sellers , will provide updates and insights on how to maximize opportunities from vital and potential tourist source markets. OBJECTIVES: · To provide a venue for foreign buyers of travel products to conduct business with Philippine tourism suppliers on pre-scheduled business appointments; · To entice buyers to include the Philippines in their tour programs or expand their existing tour programs of the archipelago; and · To generate maximum exposure of the Philippine destinations to key target markets and launch packages designed for niche markets.
Friday, July 22, 2011 BACOLOD CITY, July 22 (PIA) -- The City Tourism Office of Bacolod is inviting tourism stakeholders to MICECON 2011 - Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Exhibition (MICE) Convention 20ll, which will be held at the Cebu International Convention Center on August 10 to 13. The four-day event includes plenary sessions on market trends, MICE marketing and motivational topics, industry specific educational tracks on convention and association management, incentive travel between the invited buyers and suppliers of MICE. travel products. MICECON 2011, with its theme “I Share, You Connect, We Change,” will engage delegates to rethink and redefine their business position and strategy along with the new global challenges and developments. Registration fee is at P7,500.00 exclusive of accommodation and meals except for the welcome cocktails on August l0. The event is organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (PTB), formerly the Philippine Convention and Visitors’ Corporation. Those interested may call the Bacolod City Tourism Office at telephone numbers 7083066 or 434675l and please look for Mrs. Imogene Kana-an or Mrs. Butch Gerasmo.*(JCM/EAD-PIA6/CMO Negros Occidental) http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=44895 by Mila C. Espina
The M.I.C.E ( Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions and Exhibits and Events) had chosen Cebu to be the host of the Mice Philippine Conference, with the theme, ‘Share.youConnect, weChange!” on August 10 to 13. The Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association led by president Hans Hauri is the convenor working hand in hand with M.I.C.E. and Business Development Unit of the Tourism Promotion Board and the Department of Tourism. Official venues for major activities are the Cebu International Convention Center, Imperial Palace, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, Radisson Blu and Shangri-la Mactan Resort & Spa. But guests will be billeted in Cebu’s leading hotels. The M.I.C.E will have foreign and local buyers and suppliers who will exchange mutual interests and information on products and destinations (MICE MART); themed dinner and lunch meals, incentivized forum; and cultural entertainment . Renowned local, national speakers will tackle topics on long-term M.I.C.E programs, Meeting Technologies in Troubled Times; The Zebra Marketing Principle, Incentive Travel and Meetings De Luxe, TBA on Association Management; Turning Blueprints into Greenprints; Stepping Forward Without Footprints; New Media Marketing; Social Content Strategy, among others. For reservation and additional information, please e-mail cit@dotpcvc.gov.ph;register on-line at www.dotpcvc.gov.ph/micecon2011. A special Aloguinsan experience.. Visit Aloguinsan as the ‘townfolks’ welcome you with local songs and dances. Learn how to grow organic fruits and vegetables during demonstrations in the Farmhouse; or, participate with the locals preparing the meals using ingredients from the community garden. This immersion activity brings out the local color. The Eco-cultural tour takes you to Bojo River, one of the tributaries of Aloguinsan. The trip is conducted by the fishermen and their families, with added lectures about mangrove ecology and bird wildlife. An amazing attraction is cruising the magical river as you paddle the boat, while listening to some bits of folklore and history from your local guide. This eight-hour eco-tour departs from Cebu city at 8 a.m., and arrives at Aloguinsan at 9:30 a.m. The tour offers lunch at the Aloguinsan farm. This Eco-tour package crafted by the Tourism Team of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry was one of the option tours offered at the 21st Tourism Congress held June 24, at the Marriot Hotel. Travel Vision wizard Jenny Franco led the tour to Aloguinsan. Birthday bash Willy Dy had his birthday bash with his We Care and Alta Vista colleagues. They all came in Western costumes. Happy birthday. 17 big hotels in Cebu preparing for MICECON guests (The Philippine Star) Updated July 22, 2011 12:00 AM Comments (0) View comments
MANILA, Philippines - At least 17 big hotels in Cebu province are now briskly preparing for the influx of foreign and local participants in the forthcoming Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events Conference (MICECON) 2011. MICECON’s foreign guests will arrive from Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Australia and the United States, while local industry participants will come from various parts of the country. They will converge at the Cebu International Convention Center on Aug. 11 to start the two-day conference after a full day of relaxation and entertainment that includes a visit to the dancing inmates of Cebu and a welcome cocktail reception hosted by Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. The guests will stay at the Marco Polo Plaza, Radisson Blu Hotel, Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu Parklane International Hotel, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort & Spa, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu, Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, Be Resort Mactan, Waterfront Airport Hotel & Casino, Alpa City Suites, Cebu Grand Hotel, Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Marriott Hotel, Sarrosa International Hotel & Residential Suites, and Mango Park Hotel. The MICECON participants will have two days of seminar and workshop on attracting MICE organizers and visitors from a fast evolving world market. The conference kicks off with welcome remarks by Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and opening message by Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim. Foreign and local speakers will later discuss Asia Pacific Tourism Trends, Meetings Technology in Troubled Times: How to Do More with Less, the Zebra Marketing Principle, Turning Blueprints into Greenprints, The Invisible Leader, and a presentation on One Cebu by Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale. The conference will also feature panel discussions on Stepping Forward Without Footprints, New Media Marketing, and Bidding for Events, and breakout educational tracks on convention and association management, incentive travel, exhibitions management, and marketing and promotions, The fourth and final day on Aug. 13 will be a full day of pre-scheduled business-to-business sessions between foreign and local buyers and Philippine sellers of MICE travel products and services. This event, dubbed MICE Mart, is expected to generate huge sales for the local MICE industry since the buyers are also MICE professionals in their own countries who can bring international events and groups to the Philippines, according to Lim. The Tourism Promotions Board has also invited buyers from all over the country who can bring local events to Cebu and take the lead in bidding for the holding of certain international events in the Philippines. The MICECON secretariat is still accepting applicants for local hosted buyers. Associations and corporations that regularly hold meetings, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, events, sales rally, seminars, and trainings or provide incentive travel to their employees are invited to participate in MICECON 2011 as hosted buyers. All local buyers are entitled to complimentary conference registration, inclusive of kit and badge, complimentary accommodations in MICECON’S partner business and luxury hotels in Cebu, complimentary shuttle service in Cebu (hotel to conference and event venues), all meals during the conference, and inclusion of company name in the MICECON 2011 directory. Those interested to participate as buyers can contact the MICECON 2011 secretariat or the DOT regional offices at 525-6110, 525-6635 or 525-9318, fax 521-6165, e-mail at micecon2011regn@yahoo.com or cit.unit@gmail.com or visit www.micecon.net. MICECON 2011 is supported by the province of Cebu, the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers, the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions Philippines Inc., Philippine Airlines, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, the Cebu City government, Primer Group of Companies, Centrex Corp., Ensogo-Philippines, American Express, the provincial government of Bohol, TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd., Café Laguna, and Island Souvenirs, among many others. DOT eyes big deals at MICE Mart for various tourism, travel sectors (The Philippine Star) Updated July 15, 2011 12:00 AM
MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) is eyeing huge deals for the country’s various tourism and travel sectors that will participate in the forthcoming Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events Conference (MICECON). Slated at the Cebu International Convention Center on Aug. 10 to 13, MICECON 2011 includes MICE Mart, a pre-scheduled whole-day business-to-business session between foreign and local buyers and Philippine sellers of MICE travel products and services, according to Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim. “We have invited selected foreign MICE buyers from Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and Australia to do business with our local suppliers during the MICE Mart,” Lim said. “These buyers are likewise MICE professionals in their own countries who can bring international events and groups to the Philippines,” Lim added. The DOT, through its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), has also invited buyers from all over the country who can bring local events to Cebu and take the lead in bidding for the holding of certain international events in the Philippines. Constituting the estimated 50 foreign and local buyers are corporate end-users of incentive programs, association executives, MICE organizers, travel agencies, tour operators, and destination management firms. “In effect, we are practically gathering the global MICE industry in a single venue, and providing them with all the business linkages and opportunities for supply contracts, marketing tie-ups, joint ventures in MICE investments and projects, and other lucrative deals while strategically promoting Cebu and the rest of the Philippines as an international MICE destination,” Lim said. The MICECON secretariat is still accepting applicants for local hosted buyers. Associations and corporations that regularly hold meetings, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, events, sales rally, seminars, and trainings or provide incentive travel to their employees are invited to participate in MICECON 2011 as hosted buyers. All local buyers are entitled to complimentary conference registration inclusive of kit and badge, complimentary accommodations in MICECON’s partner business and luxury hotels in Cebu, complimentary shuttle service in Cebu (hotel to conference and event venues), all meals during the conference, and inclusion of company name in the MICECON 2011 directory. Those interested to participate as a buyer can coordinate with the MICECON 2011 secretariat at the TPB or with the DOT regional offices. Call 525-6110, 525-6635 or 525-9318, fax at 521-6165, e-mail at micecon2011regn@yahoo.com or cit.unit@gmail.com or visit www.micecon.net. With the theme “I share. You connect. We change,” MICECON 2011 emphasizes the need to adapt to an evolving global MICE market and its complexities. The theme will be highlighted in the MICECON seminars involving at least 20 experts from all over the world and several top Filipino corporate moguls as speakers. “They (speakers) will share their expertise with some 300 participants in this international event (MICECON), which is strategically designed to draw global attention to the Philippines as an international MICE hub in this part of the world,” Lim said. MICECON 2011 is organized by the DOT through the TPB, with the full support of the province of Cebu, the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS), the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC), and the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions (MITE) Philippines Inc. The conference is also supported by Philippine Airlines, Duty Free Philippines, the Cebu City government, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu, Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort, Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort and Spa, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Cebu Parklane Hotel, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, Movenpick Resort and Spa Cebu, Primer Group of Companies, Centrex Corp., Ensogo-Philippines, American Express, and the provincial government of Bohol. Espina: Mice and tourism congress
THE Mice (Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions and Exhibits and Events) had chosen Cebu to be the host of the Mice Philippine Conference, with the theme, “Share.youConnect, weChange!” on Aug. 10-13. The Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association (HRRAC), led by president Hans Hauri, is the convenor working hand in hand with Mice and Business Development Unit of the Tourism Promotion Board and the Department of Tourism. Official venues for major activities are the Cebu International Convention Center, Imperial Palace, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, Radisson Blu and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa. But guests will be billeted in Cebu’s leading hotels. Win US $500 cash in Sun.Star’s music video contest The Mice will have foreign and local buyers and suppliers who will exchange mutual interests and information on products and destinations (Mice Mart); themed dinner and lunch meals, incentivized forum; and cultural entertainment. Renowned local, national speakers will tackle topics on long-term Mice programs, Meeting Technologies in Troubled Times; The Zebra Marketing Principle, Incentive Travel and Meetings De Luxe, TBA on Association Management; Turning Blueprints into Greenprints; Stepping Forward Without Footprints; New Media Marketing; Social Content Strategy, among others. For reservation and additional information, please email cit@dotpcvc.gov.ph; register on-line at www.dotpcvc.gov.ph/micecon2011.Tourism confab The 21st Tourism Congress, held during the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Cebu Business Month (CCCI-CBM), packed the ballroom of Cebu City Marriott Hotel on June 24. More or less 600 stakeholders, local government officials, media, academe and foreign visitors engaged in lively, sometimes heated, discussion with speakers and panelists. On the open skies policy, or liberated aviation policy, among others, the discussion was with former NAIA and Civil Aviation and Authority Council, former Department of Tourism (DOT) Usec Phineas Alburo, National Association of Independent Travel Agencies chairman emeritus Bobby Joseph and Camilla Taylor, general manager, Cathay Pacific Airways. On how to brand Cebu to be distinctive and competitive, the discussion, among others, was with panelists Russian Consul Armi Garcia and British Consul Moya Jackson, Kristin Lerin (Sun.Star Cebu Travel editor) and tour guru Cecille Saa. The conceptual framework was delivered by keynote speaker Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia. The CCCI’s commitment of partnership with the Province and City of Cebu was articulated by president Sam Chioson. The following insights will serve as bases of the CCCI tourism expanded programs and will be submitted to the appropriate agencies: 1. The misconception of the Open Skies policy is due to lack of information dissemination and networking. It is a matter Cebu should prepare for. Concerns —like air traffic, inadequate airport facilities, excessive tax/fees imposed on foreign carriers, infrastructures and services—must be addressed before reciprocity between and among airlines is applied. There should be a balance of inbound and outbound tourists so as not to “derail the growth of local carriers.” 2. Cebu is a beautiful destination, but there are priorities the government must hurdle: safety and security of tourists; countryside tour packages, new thrusts in wellness and medical tourism; healthy environment, garbage management; infrastructures and services; better skilled and manpower resources; variety of creative tour packages; affordable hotel rates and “branding.” There must be extensive marketing and promotions and branding of Cebu. The Tourism Congress Night on the same day had a special guest, Councilor Margot Osmeña, who spoke about the programs of the city, specifically the Cebu City Tourism Commission. The Option Tours on June 24-25 brought the delegates to some selected eco-heritage sites, like Aloguinsan, House Close to Nature, Adventure Café, Cebu Wetland Park and Crocolandia, and Mercado’s Farmland. 20 INT'L Gurus head for CEBU to help boost MICE Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation (www.mb.com.ph) MANILA, Philippines -- At least 20 experts from all over the world, including several top Filipino corporate moguls, are coming over to Cebu as guest speakers in the forthcoming Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions/Events Conference (MICECON) to help boost this sector of the country’s tourism industry to its utmost potential. The experts will share their knowledge and skills during the MICECON 2011 with some 350 participants from the MICE sector, which contributes a significant portion to the country’s foreign inbound tourism volume and domestic travel. This important gathering, slated at the Cebu International Convention Center on August 10 to 13, is further expected to boost the tourism industry, not only in Cebu province, but also in the entire Visayas region and the rest of the archipelago as it draws global attention to the country’s many potential venues and destinations for international meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions and events, including pre- and post-MICE tours. “MICECON is a two-pronged strategy of promoting the Philippines as a global MICE destination while helping our industry embark on product development that suits international requirements and standards,” said Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim. “MICECON 2011, therefore, is both a tourism marketing event and a strategic knowledge resource distribution program designed for the MICE sector and the rest of its supply chain,” Lim explained. “So while the focus is on the MICE sector, the benefits will redound to the entire tourism industry and all its members, and the rest of the economy,” Lim stressed. MICECON is organized by the Department of Tourism (DoT) through its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board, with the full support of Cebu province, the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers, the Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC), and the Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions (MITE) Philippines Inc. HRRAC president and MICECON organizing committee chair Hans Hauri placed the MICE market at a conservative 50 million constituents worldwide. Thus, while the country’s total yearly foreign visitor arrivals hover at only around 3.5 million, total tourism receipts run to about $5 billion, partly because of MICE. So, too, are most of Singapore’s huge tourism revenues since that island state has a firm hold of this niche in the global marketplace. Nonetheless, the Philippines’ share of the global MICE market is growing along with the increase in its high-end room accommodation capacity, convention facilities and other related physical infrastructure. “But in order to become globally competitive, we have to match the other countries quality for quality, quantity for quantity, and value for value as dictated by the international market demand and anchored on our very own uniqueness in terms of culture, nature, infrastructure, and other highly saleable attributes,” Lim further explained. “We could only arrive at the ideal product mix if we listened to the global experts whom we invited to MICECON and developed that level of market sensitivity that could make us at least one-step ahead of the competition to be able to dictate the trends,” Lim stressed. “In short, the government and the private sector must attain cohesiveness in the pursuit of that goal, and MICECON is a good venue to bring us all together in having that singularity of purpose in our actions,” Lim added. With the theme “I share. You connect. We change.” MICECON 2011 emphasizes the need to adapt to an evolving global MICE market and its complexities. More information on MICECON 2011 can be obtained from the Philippine M.I.C.E. Conference Organizing Committee (Tel: 5256110, 5256635, 5259318; Fax: 5216165; Email: micecon2011regn@yahoo.com, cit.unit@gmail.com; or visit: www.micecon.net). http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/325766/20-intl-gurus-head-cebu-help-boost-mice MICE congress seen to boost tourism, economy of Central Visayas By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.
Cebu readies for conference; positions itself as By Katlene O. Cacho
Hotel group’s prexy says Cebu ready for PhilMICE Cebu is ready to host the Philippine MICE (PhilMICE) Conference 2011 in August. The tentative schedule of activities include a tour to to Cebu provincial jail to watch the “dancing inmates” on Day 1. Go top
Tourism players gear up for MICE meet in August By Aileen Garcia-Yap
The tourism industry stakeholders in Cebu are preparing to get a share of the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibition (MICE) market this year as Cebu is set to host the 2011 MICE Congress in August. Cenelyn Manguilimutan, Cebu Parklane International Hotel general manager, said the hotel expects 2011 to be a performance year for the industry as it prepares to cater to the MICE market that’s beginning to show interest in Cebu. “The MICE market has very huge potential to grow here in Cebu and we’re seeing this happening starting this year especially after we’ll be hosting the 2011 MICE Conference this coming August. This will put Cebu in the global map of destinations for these kinds of activities aside from the usual liesure market,” she said. Manguilimutan said the hotel had an early positive occupancy turnout this year even after the Sinulog. “We are targeting to achieve a 72 percent average occupancy this year. Since January we are already at 79.8 percent, which is clearly an indication of a booming tourism industry this year despite the recent happenings outside the country,” she said. Cebu Parklane International Hotel’s preparations for the increase of MICE tourists this year include the recent unveiling of their new icons “Mangga and Manggo” which embody the hotel’s vision to be known as a Cebuano brand hotel. The hotel is also undergoing a “face-lift” of their amenities and rooms to give them a touch of Cebuano feel in them. She said that they had already spent at least P5 million for the renovations in the fourth floor of the hotel which houses their new Kan-anan restaurant, the pool and the gym. Meanwhile, Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts, which recently launched their brand in Cebu in Mactan Cebu in what used to be known as Cebu Hilton Resort and Spa, also was preparing to get a share of the MICE market this year especially with the 2011 MICE Congress. Manuel “Manny” Osmeña, Oikonomos International Resources Corp. chairman, said during the recent announcement of the firm’s partnership with Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts, they had allotted P100 million for property upgrades of the hotel including having bigger and modern conference rooms, which were required for the MICE market. Rose H. Libongco, who is consultant for marketing of the hotel, said she sees bright prospects for the MICE market in Cebu especially with the international airport that serves numerous direct international flights to many countries already. “MICE is a sustainable market segment in the Philippines and a lot has already looked to this market and how they can cater to their needs. Even from our local companies, there are many doing the MICE business already through conferences, annual plannings, team buildings and many more,” Libongco said. Libongco added that with the 2011 MICE Conference this August, they expect Cebu to be well exposed among many association heads and executives representing major companies from around the country and the world and will open up the MICE market segment more. “We will be participating in the conference and we will make sure that we’ll be there in trying to encourage more conventions to be held here in Cebu,” Libongco said.
Cebu tourism players prepare for Mice confab in August Balita
CEBU CITY, May 26 — Tourism industry stakeholders in Cebu are preparing for the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibits (Mice) conference this August which is expected to boost the province’s tourism industry, officials said. Hans Hauri, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager and Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association of Cebu (HRRAC) president, said hotels and other tourism players are busy preparing for the arrival of delegates to the conference. He said the event would be an opportunity for Cebu to showcase its potential to become an alternative Mice destination. Cebu bested Davao City, Camarines Sur, Bohol, Ilocos, and General Santos City in the bid to host the 2011 Mice Conference during last year’s Mice Conference hosted by Subic. “Events like this bring in a large number of people that would help stimulate local economic activities. This event would not only (boost) Cebu but the entire Visayas as well,” Hauri said. He noted that the Department of Tourism (DOT) is keen on establishing this niche market as it helps create wealth out of tourism, directly affecting food and beverages, hotels, airlines, and tour services. The Mice Conference 2011 is expected to bring in at least 350 participants from other parts of the Philippines and abroad. <p.The conference will be held at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) at the Mandaue City reclamation area on Aug. 10 to 14. Former DOT 7 Director Dawnie Roa said the conference will be held back-to-back with One Cebu. She said this year’s conference will be better than Subic as “Cebu is in a better position and more prepared for the activity.” Hauri added they are confident to host the big activity with Cebu’s improved facilities and the presence of big hotels with huge convention halls. He said the DOT has allotted P6 million to finance the event. The Cebu Provincial Government is also extending support to the activity by hosting dinners and entertainment and offering free use of the CICC. Cebu hotels will also be offering complimentary room accommodations for guests. (PNA) http://balita.ph/2011/05/27/cebu-tourism-players-prepare-for-mice-confab-in-august/
Cebu tourism players prepare for Mice confab in August Positive News Media, Philippines
CEBU CITY, May 27 (PNA) -- Tourism industry stakeholders in Cebu are preparing for the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibits (Mice) conference this August which is expected to boost the province’s tourism industry, officials said. Hans Hauri, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager and Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association of Cebu (HRRAC) president, said hotels and other tourism players are busy preparing for the arrival of delegates to the conference. He said the event would be an opportunity for Cebu to showcase its potential to become an alternative Mice destination. Cebu bested Davao City, Camarines Sur, Bohol, Ilocos, and General Santos City in the bid to host the 2011 Mice Conference during last year’s Mice Conference hosted by Subic. “Events like this bring in a large number of people that would help stimulate local economic activities. This event would not only (boost) Cebu but the entire Visayas as well,” Hauri said. He noted that the Department of Tourism (DOT) is keen on establishing this niche market as it helps create wealth out of tourism, directly affecting food and beverages, hotels, airlines, and tour services. The Mice Conference 2011 is expected to bring in at least 350 participants from other parts of the Philippines and abroad. Former DOT 7 Director Dawnie Roa said the conference will be held back-to-back with One Cebu. She said this year’s conference will be better than Subic as “Cebu is in a better position and more prepared for the activity.” Hauri added they are confident to host the big activity with Cebu’s improved facilities and the presence of big hotels with huge convention halls. He said the DOT has allotted P6 million to finance the event. The Cebu Provincial Government is also extending support to the activity by hosting dinners and entertainment and offering free use of the CICC. Cebu hotels will also be offering complimentary room accommodations for guests. (PNA). |
