Philippines trains sights on new tourism segments

“The merging of tourism and real estate development will lay the groundwork for enticing balikbayans as well as tourists to come and stay in the Philippines for good. The synergy between real estate development and tourism can result in making the Philippines the retirement haven of Southeast Asia,” Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay said in his keynote speech at the start yesterday of the two-day 20th Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations, Inc. Convention at Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.

Mr. Binay, concurrent chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), described local real estate and tourism as “engines of economic growth,” especially when combined.

While urging developers to think “bigger” and “bolder,” Mr. Binay said HUDCC will propose public-private partnerships and tax incentives for retiree tourism.

In a separate speech, Department of Tourism Undersecretary Daniel G. Corpuz said government is targeting new segments involving nature and cultural tours, leisure and entertainment, cruises, health and wellness packages, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) to help bring in retirees and achieve the goal of doubling foreign visitor arrivals to 6.6 million by 2016.

Source - bworldonline