The partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Klook Philippines is a big step towards improving travel in the Philippines. This collaboration has launched curated tour packages under the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), giving travelers a wide range of choices that celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious food. This initiative is especially significant as it reflects the goals of the Marcos Administration to boost tourism and advance digital transformation in this sector.
Transforming Tourism in the Philippines with Unique Experiences
The joint effort of DOT and Klook not only enhances tourism offerings across the Philippines but also serves as a major force for speeding up digital changes in the travel industry. By integrating a variety of travel experiences and services onto the Klook platform, this partnership intends to make it easier and more appealing for both local and international travelers to explore the Philippines.
At the heart of this collaboration is the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), which promotes exclusive and immersive tours that showcase the country’s vast history, vibrant communities, and varied landscapes in different regions. The DOT has worked hard to create these experiences, while Klook plays a key role in promoting them effectively through its digital platform.
Exciting Tours Available Across the Philippine Archipelago
The new offerings on Klook come with an exciting selection of tours that will take travelers on a journey through the Philippines’ culture, history, and culinary treasures. Here are a few tours that stand out and should be on every traveler’s list:
1. Calabarzon Culture, Heritage, and Arts Tour
This tour gives participants the chance to visit the stunning Pagsanjan Falls, known for its breathtaking beauty and exciting adventure options. Travelers will also explore important cultural sites like the Pinto Art Museum, which features a vast collection of contemporary Filipino art. Additionally, the historical Villa Escudero will provide visitors with a glimpse into local traditions and history, making this tour a diverse experience.
2. Explore Bicol’s Culture, Heritage, and Adventure
Bicol is famous for its breathtaking views, especially of the majestic Mayon Volcano. Travelers can enjoy a thrilling ATV ride that brings them close to this stunning landmark. This tour also allows visitors to savor the famed Bicolano cuisine, known for dishes like laing and bicol express. Each meal is crafted using local ingredients that reflect the vibrant spirit of the region.
3. Discover Spanish Colonial History in Ilocos Region
Tours in the Ilocos Region provide a deeper understanding of the Philippines’ Spanish colonial history, particularly through the picturesque streets of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can engage with local communities, enjoy Filipino hospitality, and taste local delicacies like empanadas and tupig—traditional desserts made from glutinous rice, coconut, and sugar.
4. Culture and Heritage in Western Visayas
Silay City in Western Visayas offers visitors a chance to appreciate well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and important heritage sites. The Culture, Heritage, and Arts Tour enables tourists to visit historical homes and sample fresh seafood at local markets—showcasing the close connection between Filipinos and the sea.
5. Uncover Palawan’s Natural Wonders and Traditions
Palawan is frequently celebrated as one of the most beautiful islands worldwide. The Culture, Heritage, and Arts Tour in Palawan allows travelers to experience the region’s distinct history and customs. Participants can visit the Palawan Special Battalion WWII Memorial Museum, take part in Binuatan Weaving Creation workshops, and explore the Butterfly Garden, which highlights the area’s rich biodiversity.
Enhancing Visitor Services with Tourist Rest Areas and New Partnerships
Aside from these curated tours, the DOT and Klook are working to improve visitor services by adding Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) to the Klook platform. This integration aims to provide travelers with easy access to convenient rest points and services as they explore different destinations throughout the country.
Moreover, the partnership includes potential collaborations with major transportation hubs, such as Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Clark International Airport. By building these connections, the DOT hopes to streamline the travel experience for visitors entering the country. Each point of entry serves as a gateway to showcase the beauty and depth of Filipino culture.
Importance of the Partnership for Philippine Tourism
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the positive outlook of this partnership during the signing agreement ceremony with Klook President and Co-Founder Eric Gnock Fah. She stressed how this collaboration fits within the government’s plan to place the Philippines high in the global tourism market, extending beyond just fun and adventure. The emphasis is also on presenting the various experiences that shape Filipino identity, which encompasses culture, heritage, community engagement, and gastronomy.
“This partnership with Klook is a significant advance in promoting our Philippine Experience Program throughout the world,” mentioned Secretary Frasco. “By showcasing our destinations through various lenses, we can offer fair tourism opportunities while highlighting the unique qualities of our nation.”
Klook’s co-founder, Eric Gnock Fah, echoed this outlook, emphasizing that the partnership will open up countless adventures and cultural experiences. With the extensive natural beauty of the Philippines and the welcoming nature of its people, he looks forward to helping both locals and international travelers discover the treasures waiting to be explored.
Klook’s Ongoing Commitment to Enhancing Tourism
Klook has established itself as an important player in the tourism sector, having previously collaborated with the DOT on numerous initiatives. This includes preparing training seminars focused on social media marketing and product development. They have also introduced the Intramuros Pass, which provides special access to attractions within Manila’s historic Walled City and worked together on campaigns like “Love the Philippines.”
Thanks to these efforts, Klook has significantly expanded its offerings, currently listing more than half a million experiences across over 2,700 destinations in the Philippines. This impressive reach demonstrates the company’s dedication to linking travelers to authentic experiences that showcase the beauty and culture of the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What exactly is the Philippine Experience Program (PEP)?
The Philippine Experience Program is a core tourism initiative established by the Marcos Administration aimed at highlighting the country’s diverse cultural treasures and natural beauty through tailored travel experiences.
2. How can travelers sign up for these tours?
Travelers can book the curated tour packages through the Klook platform, which is designed for easy navigation and secure reservations.
3. Are there additional partnerships that will improve travel experiences?
Absolutely, the DOT and Klook are looking into ways to include Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) within the Klook platform and to establish partnerships with key airports, including Mactan-Cebu and Clark International Airport, to improve travel facilitation.
4. In what ways has Klook previously supported the DOT?
Klook has engaged in several initiatives with the DOT, which include training sessions, exclusive local attraction passes, and collaborative marketing campaigns.
5. How many destinations can travelers find on Klook currently?
As of now, Klook features over 2,700 destinations throughout the Philippines, providing travelers with an extensive range of exploration options.
Act Now and Discover the Philippines
Don’t miss out on the exciting opportunities to explore the Philippines with the newly launched curated packages under the Philippine Experience Program. This partnership between DOT and Klook opens doors to authentic experiences that showcase the beauty and culture of the country. Travel enriches our lives, and the Philippines offers an incredible variety of adventures waiting for you. Visit Klook today to start planning your next unforgettable journey!
References
1. Department of Tourism (DOT) official announcements
2. Klook corporate press releases and service descriptors
3. Various travel articles and publications highlighting Philippine tourism
4. Local government tourism reports and initiatives.
