Guam to the natives also called "Guahan" is an island in the western North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines.
It is the largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago. Guam is a territory of the United States of America. It is considered to occupy a militarily strategic location, south of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Guam is one of many islands that make up Micronesia, which politically consists of Belau (Palau), the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati (anthropologically having affinities with Polynesia and Micronesia), the Marshall Islands, and several remote islands designated as the US-administered islands of the Central Pacific. All of Micronesia has close political ties to the US.
Northern Region- The northern part of the island is a relatively flat limestone plateau and is comprised of two villages (Dedeo and Yigo) and the United States' Andersen Air Force Base.
Dededo is Guam's most populous village. Highlights for visitors include the Guam National Wildlife Refuge Ritidian Unit, the Micronesia Mall, Two Lovers Point, parks, beaches and hiking trails. Dededo hosts a busy weekend flea market that attracts large crowds - vendors sell all kinds of items, local produce and tasty food.
Central Region- Central Guam is quite metropolitan. The island's capitol of Hagåtña is the seat of government and features a historic walking path through the village. Tumon Bay is brimming with luxury hotels and high-end shopping.
Destinations of interest here include: the Chamorro Village with its lively Wednesday Night Market; the historic Plaza de Espana and Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica; plentiful beaches with water sports like parasailing, kite boarding, boating and personal watercraft. Local companies offer dolphin watching, diving, and fishing tours regularly.
The most bustling nightlife is located in this region of the island - there are many bars, karaoke joints, and dance clubs up and down the Tumon strip. Shopping spots include Guam Premier Outlets and Agana Shopping Center. A new Guam Museum is currently under construction.
Southern Region- Guam's southern end is mostly rural and picturesque - featuring a volcanic mountain range and rolling green hills. Chamorro customs are preserved at Inarajan's Gef Pa'go Cultural Village; it features thatched huts and offers a picture of pre-World War II Guam. Visitors can learn to make a variety of crafts including woven items, rope, sea salt, coconut candy and coconut oil. Off the coast of Merizo and across a lagoon sits Cocos Island.
Talofofo Bay's black sand beaches are a beautiful contrast to the white sand found around the rest of the island. Hiking trails are plentiful, and lead to destinations like Upper and Lower Sigua Falls and an ancient Spanish bridge down in Cetti Bay. The War in the Pacific National Historic Park operates a visitor center near the main gate of US Naval Base Guam.
Villages
All villages elect a mayor and vice mayor. Central villages are more urban. According to the 2010 US Census, Guam's population is 85% Catholic. Each village celebrates the fiesta of a patron saint or saints. These fiestas are usually large events where everyone is welcome, regardless of religious beliefs.
On December 8, the island celebrates its patron saint of Santa Maria Kamalen with a Mass at the cathedral-basilica and a procession around Hagåtña. This event dates back hundreds of years, to the Spanish Era.
Points of interest
Hagåtña - (formerly Agana or Agaña), is the capital of the island and the seat of government. Sightseeing spots include: the Chamorro Village on Wednesday nights; a multi-storeyed latte stone built next to Adelup on the beach; the Council of the Arts and Humanities gallery; and the Guam Preservation Trust's historic walking tour of the village - the tour includes pre-war latte stones, Spanish Era buildings, and WWII fortifications.
Traffic and parking in Hagåtña can get crowded. The area is also undergoing massive roadwork as post-WWII infrastructure is upgraded and repaired. Another major construction project is the new Guam Museum. Visit on July 21 and you'll see the annual Liberation Day parade.
Agana Heights - Suburban area in the hills above Hagåtña. Fort Apugan, a Spanish Era fort looks out over Hagåtña Bay and the island.
Asan - Home to the War in the Pacific Park's Asan Beach Park. The park preserves the shoreline where the Marines and Army landed to retake the island in 1944.
Inarajan - Gef Pa'go Cultural Park - features handicrafts, dance performances and local food.
Mangilao - Home to higher learning institutions on the island - the University of Guam and Guam Community College
Tumon - Tourism district that features high-end shopping and hotels, bustling nightlife and adult entertainment.
Umatac - Visit during March to see a re-enactment of Ferdinand Magellan's landing, complete with burning huts and angry islanders.
War In The Pacific National Historical Park - former battlefields, gun emplacements, trenches, and historic structures all serve as silent reminders of the bloody World War II battles that ensued on Guam. While the park is known for its historical resources, the warm climate, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters attract visitors and residents.
Guam was ceded to the US by Spain in 1898 after the Spanish-American War. Captured by Japan and its army in 1941, it was retaken by the US three years later. The military installations on the island are some of the more strategically important U.S. bases in the Western Pacific.
The economy depends on US military spending, tourism, and the export of fish and handicrafts. Total US grants, wage payments, and procurement outlays amounted to $1 billion in 1998. Over the past 20 years, the tourist industry has grown rapidly, creating a construction boom for new hotels and the expansion of older ones.
More than 1 million tourists visit Guam each year. The industry has recently suffered setbacks because of the continuing Japanese slowdown; the Japanese normally make up almost 90% of the tourists. However, Guam tourism is branching out to attract people from other Asian countries such as Taiwan, South Korea and China.
Most food and industrial goods are imported. The possibility of a large military buildup has generated a lot of interest in increasing the tourist facilities on the island.
Guam enjoys a tropical marine climate: generally warm and humid, moderated by northeast trade winds. The dry season runs from January to June, the rainy season from July to December, though with little seasonal temperature variation.
During the rains, squalls are common, though destructive typhoons are rare.
A unique aspect of Guam for interested world travellers is its long standing relationship with the United States as an unincorporated territory. While the island's political status has remain unchanged for over a century many island stakeholder's are seeking solutions to address political status.
Visa-free entry
The entry requirements for Guam are largely the same as those for the US, and nationals of all countries not needing a visa to enter the U.S. do not need a visa to enter Guam, although they may require an ESTA travel authorization. These countries include:
- Canadian citizens can work and study in Guam under the TN Status
- Micronesian, Marshallese, and Palauan citizens can live, work, and travel freely in Guam.
- American/American Samoan citizens can live, work, study, and travel freely with no restrictions other than having a passport for entry.
Guam/CNMI Visa Waiver Program
Foreign citizens may enter Guam using one of three options:
(1)- the U.S. Visa Waiver Program
(2)- the Guam/CNMI Visa Waiver Program or
(3)- a valid U.S. visa.
If you are using the Guam/CNMI Visa Waiver Program, you do not need to apply for a travel authorization prior to going. The Guam/CNMI Visa Waiver Program includes seven U.S.-VWP countries (Australia, Brunei, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore and the UK) plus Hong Kong, Malaysia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Taiwan and Russia (from 15.01.2012).
Foreign citizens using the US-Visa Waiver Program may stay 90 days, while citizens using the Guam/CNMI-VWP may stay for 45 days. Mainland Chinese citizens in possession of a machine-readable passport, completed Form I-736 (Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Information form) and Form I-94 (Arrival-Departure Record) may enter the CNMI only visa-free for up to 45 days (travel to Guam still requires applying for a visa in advance). Citizens of non-VWP countries must apply for a U.S. visa at any U.S. embassy.
Won Pat Guam International Airport (GUM) is the only civilian gateway to the island and is located only a few miles inland of Tumon. The airport is quite pleasant and relatively large compared to population; it is also sleep-able if you have a few hours in transit. The Internet at the airport did not work (December 2016).
A taxi from the airport to local hotels is a complete rip off -- several time more expensive than it would be on the mainland. There is no public bus option from the airport, so best is to team up with someone.
The airline servicing Guam is United Airlines, which offers non-stop service to Honolulu with onward connections in Honolulu to Chicago,Denver,Houston,Los Angeles,Newark,San Francisco,and Washington-Dulles. It also offers non-stop flights from Guam to most major cities in Japan, as well as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Palau, Manila, and many of the Federated States of Micronesia.
All other service to Guam is through East Asia on Delta Air Lines (serving Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya), JAL (Tokyo), Korean Air (Seoul, Busan and Osaka), China Airlines (Taipei), Eva Airways (Taipei) and Philippine Airlines (Manila).
There is no regular ferry service from Guam, but cruise ships do stop in Guam on various itineraries, generally as part of a Pacific crossing or world circumnavigation.
Getting in by car is fairly simple and similar to the mainland US. Roads are not graded to US standards and are very slippery in rain, take caution. The main route on the island is Marine Corps Drive/Guam Route 1 (Better known as Marine Drive). On main roads in Guam, expect congestion. Many people purchase vehicles described as "Guam Bombs" which are older vehicles that are great to get around in and affordable.
Buses are available, but the frequency at which they operate is very unpredictable, you may end up waiting 2+ hours for a bus. The Guam Public Transportation system is generally known to be unreliable and slow. As of December 2016, there has been an improvement,bus drivers have cell phones and there are inspectors. It is a cheap way to travel around the island if you do not want to bother with car rental.
The Tourist Shopping Buses stops at most hotels in Tumon. The Shopping Bus costs $4 for a one-way ticket and $12 for a daily pass December 2016. There are buses going North and South make sure you pick the right one service is frequent and it works well.
Walking is only safe in the central business districts of Hagåtña and Tumon. Walking anywhere else around the island is hazardous due to dangerous vehicular traffic and the lack of sidewalks.
English and Chamorro are the official languages of Guam, English being the dominant language. Chamorro language is loan words from Spanish phrases. Persons employed in the tourist industry will typically have a working knowledge of Japanese. Filipino is spoken in this island. Spanish is understood too.
Chamorro Night Market. Wednesday nights at the Chamorro Village in Agana. Somewhat overpriced and touristy in fact, certain restaurants and shops (which are there permanently during the week) will actually charge more during the night market than they do normally.
Mangilao Night Market. Thursday nights at the Santa Teresita Church in Mangilao. A more community-oriented night market with generally cheaper prices and a greater selection of local,if not always Chamorro food.
- Fish Eye Marine Observatory. An underwater observatory at the Piti Bomb Holes Preserve. If you don't want to pay the fee, you can just swim out (following the pier) and snorkel in the area to the left of the observatory. Vast but not particularly diverse forests of both hard and soft coral can be found.
- Cabras Island Channel. Park across the street from the Cabras power plant. There is an artificial channel for coolant water. No swimming, but the water is very clear, and you can see various coral and fish as well as some particularly evil-looking sea urchins. A path along the left side of the channel will lead you out to the ocean.
- Gun Beach. From Tumon, head north, pass the Hotel Nikko and take the next right to the Beach Bar. Multiple signs will claim that parking is for Beach Bar patrons only however, they fail to mention the public (dirt) parking lot immediately to the right of the Beach Bar parking.
If this area is full, park at the Nikko's public parking area and walk past the dumpsters to the small beach access path. As with the rest of Guam, snorkeling areas are quite far out from the shore. There is also a pathway along the rock cliff to another beach.
There are many retail outlets in Guam, including DFS (Duty Free Shoppers) which operates several stores in hotels, a large "Galleria," and a store in the Guam Airport.
Further, visitors to Guam will note some of the same shopping opportunities that exist in "the States." Although there is no Wal-Mart, there is a large K-Mart that does a very high volume of business. Indeed, visitors who are used to the cavernous voids of K-Marts in the US may be surprised to find that they can barely squeeze through the aisles of the Guam K-Mart.
The Tumon Bay area possesses many duty-free shopping outlets and boutiques catering to Japanese tourists. Among these are boutiques selling Bvlgari, Chanel, Cartier, Dior, Fendi, Ferragamo, Gucci, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and more.
For US citizens, Guam offers greatly increased customs exemptions coupled with duty and tax free importation of goods. However, take care with the basic prices offered in stores. Much merchandise has been shipped a very great distance at no small cost.
Eat
Locals pride themselves in Guam's take on barbecue and families and friends often get together and for barbecues. If you ask, there's a good chance you'll get invited. Chamorro cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Asian and American flavors.
The typical eating plate features red rice, barbecued meat, flour or corn tortillas, keleguen (a cold meat appetizer made from beef, chicken, or seafood, coconut, onions, peppers and lemon juice), and various vegetable side dishes. A local fermented coconut drink called "tuba" can also be found at fiestas, flea markets or from roadside vendors.
Guam has a large range of restaurants, including many American mainland fast food and franchise chains. Japanese franchise eateries are also common.
Major hotels and restaurants serve continental meals and ethnic dishes. Travellers who venture further will find Chamorro, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, Filipino, Chinese, Mexican, and European restaurants, each with its own distinct ambiance.
Fresh seafood is bountiful. Fresh fish, octopus, and crab are either grilled or baked with vegetables or fruit, sashimi, and in other ways unique to the Pacific.
Local produce includes corn, bananas, mangoes, calamansi, limes, tangerines, eggplant, watermelon, cucumber and more and is often sold at flea markets or roadside fruit stands.
Restaurants
- Jamaican Grill, Tumon, Hagåtña and Dededo. Jamaican fusion restaurant featuring chicken, ribs and fish.
- Jeff's Pirates Cove, Ipan, Talofofo,A great place to stop for a burger, beer, or tasty Greek dishes. Situated just off the beach, the outdoor tables command a great view of the sea. Friendly staff, but hit-and-miss food quality.
- Linda's Coffee Shop, Hagåtña. Hole in the wall favorite of locals and the late night crowd.
- McKraut's, Malojloj. This German bar and restaurant is far off the tourist track. They serve real German food and celebrate Oktoberfest every year.
- Pika's Cafe, Tamuning. Serves breakfast and lunch with an emphasis on local produce. Very popular on weekends - prepare to wait a while for a table, but it's worth it.
- Shirley's Coffee Shop. A Guam staple since the 1980s - serves Asian and American eats in a family atmosphere.
- Japanese Restaurant WAON, Located in the Guam Reef & Olive Spa Resort. Restaurant serving both traditional Japanese and fusion cuisine. Nice sunset views. Also has an all-you-can-drink option. Try the tonkatsu or curry!
- MAIN Restaurant & Lounge, Dinner from 6:45PM every day. Located in the Guam Reef & Olive Spa Resort. All-day buffet restuarant with 90 foods available at dinner service. Also has a Chamorro dance show every night.
- Sand Dune, 24 hrs every day. Located in the Guam Reef & Olive Spa Resort. Lobby lounge & café.
Drink
Talofofo
- Island Sunrise Cafe, 286 Chalan Canton Ladera, Talofofo Guam 96915 (Traversed the island down Rte 4 to the three-way intersection above Talofofo Bay. Turn right and go up the hill past Notre Dame High School and drive past two bus-stops (both on the right), then turn right at the Island Sunrise Cafe sign,you'll see signs guiding you along the way. You'll find this lovely hideaway perched up on the cliff line offering one of the island's most breath-taking coastal vistas.) closed on Wednesday. Local cuisine and BBQ. As an added bonus breakfast is served from 8am-8pm. $5-$10..
Tumon
- Buddies Billiards and Brew, (Behind Tick Tock).
- Bully’s Bar & Grill, (1F of The Plaza).
- Cafe Havana, (Hyatt Regency Guam Resort).
- Casa Nami, San Vitores Rd (Across from Pacific Islands Club, 2F).
Sleep
The main tourist area is around Tumon Bay, which has a number of high-rise hotels and resorts similar to Waikiki Beach. Cheaper accommodations exist near the airport, especially around the village of Harmon.
Be aware that Harmon hotels tend to be on the seedier side since Harmon is a mixed industrial/residential neighborhood. Many of the flights scheduled through Guam to other locations especially in Asia often require an overnight layover, so plan ahead. Some hotels offer airport pickup, as taxis can be quite expensive.
Tamuning
- PIC Resorts - Guam, 210 Pale San Vitores Rd.
- Tamuning Plaza Hotel, 960 S Marine Dr.
Tumon
- Hyatt Regency Guam, 1155 Pale San Vitores Rd (Tumon Bay).
- Pacific Islands Club Hotel and Resorts: Guam, 210 Pale San Vitores Rd (Tumon Bay).
- Royal Orchid Guam Hotel, 626 Pale San Vitores Road (Tumon Bay).
The University of Guam is the only public university in the western pacific and is the educational hub for the region. UOG is in Mangilao, on the central eastern side of Guam.
The university is primarily an undergraduate teaching university but does have Masters programs that focus on local research. Two of the Masters level programs include the Environmental Science Program, with a focus on regional issues under three major sub-disciplines: biology-ecology, geosciences-engineering, and economics-management-law.; and the Marine Laboratory , which focuses on Marine Biology and other environmental issues.
Employment
As a US territory, Americans and American Samoan citizens can come here and work with no special visa or requirements, and they can stay and work indefinitely. Foreigners must go through the rigorous process of obtaining a US work permit. See the United States work section for more information.
The largest employers are the government of Guam and United Airlines, followed by a large duty-free retail firm (DFS Guam), the U.S. Federal Government, the hotel industry and services sectors.
Guam has two large military bases and several smaller military installations that employ many people. The only U.S. Air Force base is Andersen Air Force Base on the northern tip of the island.
The U.S. Navy has a large naval station Naval Station Guam,located on the west-central part of the island near the village Agat.
Diving
Micronesian Diver's Association has information on the many local dive sites as well as boat dives around the island. Highlights include: The Blue Hole, a more advanced dive with an incredible drop through a hole in the reef; and the Kitzagawa Maru and Tokei Maru, two Japanese warships sunk out in Apra Habor. 210 miles off the south east coast lies the worlds deepest point, the Mariana Trench, for anyone wishing to peer 11,000 meters down into the abyss you will need to charter a private boat for the experience.
Your Security
Observe caution when engaged in water activities on Guam, as in any coastal area, as currents can be swift and unpredictable, depending on the season.
During the rainy season (from about August until March), water can pool unevenly on road surfaces. Pooling of rain water can lead to flooding of roads in the southern half of Guam, which does not have sewer drainage built under the road surfaces.
Furthermore, many roads are in disrepair and potholes are frequent, which can easily blow out tires. Violent crime is fairly low, but property crime tends to be high, so safeguard valuables in vehicles.
Sex crime is very serious problem in Guam. For the tourists, be careful when you are jogging in isolated area such as remote road to Two Lover's Point. There were some sexual assault cases in that area. Rental cars have stickers and can be targeted by thieves.
Guam is in a major earthquake zone, and these occur every few years. That said, there have been few casualties to date.
LGBT Tourists
The mainland U.S. has had some influence on Guam when it comes to LGBT rights. Private non-commercial same-sex acts are legal.
But there are no anti-discrimination nor harassment codes in place, outside of military bases. Same-sex marriages are performed and recognized as of June 2015 and it is also legal to adopt a child if you plan on living in Guam.
Healthy
The civilian Guam Memorial Hospital is in Tamuning, in the Central Region. If you have access to military bases, there's a Naval Hospital.
Culture
The Chamorro people, also known as the Chamoro or Chamoru, are indigenous to Guam. They possess a culture that mixes Asian, Spanish, and American cultures, and in general the people are gregarious and welcoming to visitors.
Observe common courtesies and tend to err on the modest side, especially with clothing. Other cultures found in Guam include those from the Philippines, Japan, China, Korea, and other countries.
The Chamorro population is predominantly but not exclusively Catholic, with Protestantism also popular. On Guam, rosaries take the place of large formal gatherings to remember those whom have passed away, and such congregations can occur for up to 20 years after someone has passed.
Chamorro Guamanian culture is a combination of American, Spanish, Filipino, other Micronesian Islander and Mexican traditions, with few remaining indigenous pre-Hispanic customs. These influences are manifested in the local language, music, dance, sea navigation, cuisine, fishing, games (such as batu, chonka, estuleks, and bayogu), songs and fashion.
During Spanish colonial rule (1668–1898) the majority of the population was converted to Roman Catholicism and religious festivities such as Easter and Christmas became widespread. Post-contact Chamorro cuisine is largely based on corn, and includes tortillas, tamales, atole and chilaquiles, which are a clear influence from Spanish trade between Mesoamerica and Asia.
The modern Chamorro language is a Malayo-Polynesian language with much Spanish influence. Many Chamorros also have Spanish surnames because of their conversion to Roman Catholic Christianity and the adoption of names from the Catálogo alfabético de apellidos, a phenomenon also common to the Philippines and Latin America.
Due to foreign cultural influence from Spain, most aspects of the early indigenous culture have been lost, though there has been a resurgence in preserving any remaining pre-Hispanic culture in the last few decades. Some scholars have traveled throughout the Pacific Islands conducting research to study what the original Chamorro cultural practices such as dance, language, and canoe building may have been like.
Two aspects of indigenous pre-Hispanic culture that withstood time are chenchule' and inafa'maolek. Chenchule' is the intricate system of reciprocity at the heart of Chamorro society. It is rooted in the core value of inafa'maolek. Inafa'maolek, or interdependence, is the key, or central value, in Chamorro culture.
Inafa'maolek depends on a spirit of cooperation and sharing. This is the armature, or core, that everything in Chamorro culture revolves around. It is a powerful concern for mutuality rather than individualism and private property rights."
The core culture or Pengngan Chamorro is based on complex social protocol centered upon respect: From sniffing over the hands of the elders (called mangnginge in Chamorro), the passing down of legends, chants, and courtship rituals, to a person asking for permission from spiritual ancestors before entering a jungle or ancient battle grounds. Other practices predating Spanish conquest include galaide' canoe-making, making of the belembaotuyan (a string musical instrument made from a gourd), fashioning of acho' atupat slings and slingstones, tool manufacture, Matan Guma' burial rituals, and preparation of herbal medicines by Suruhanu.
Master craftsmen and women specialize in weavings, including plaited work (niyok- and akgak-leaf baskets, mats, bags, hats, and food containments), loom-woven material (kalachucha-hibiscus and banana fiber skirts, belts and burial shrouds), and body ornamentation (bead and shell necklaces, bracelets, earrings, belts and combs made from tortoise shells and Spondylus).
The cosmopolitan and multicultural nature of modern Guam poses challenges for Chamorros struggling to preserve their culture and identity amidst forces of acculturation. The increasing numbers of Chamorros, especially Chamorro youth, relocating to the U.S. Mainland has further complicated both definition and preservation of Chamorro identity.
While only a few masters exist to continue traditional art forms, the resurgence of interest among the Chamorros to preserve the language and culture has resulted in a growing number of young Chamorros who seek to continue the ancient ways of the Chamorro people.
Business
Guam's economy depends primarily on tourism, Department of Defense installations and locally owned businesses. Despite paying no income or excise tax, it receives large transfer payments from the general revenues of the U.S. federal treasury.
Under the provisions of a special law by Congress, it is Guam's treasury rather than the U.S. treasury that receives the federal income taxes paid by local taxpayers,including military and civilian federal employees assigned to Guam.
Lying in the western Pacific, Guam is a popular destination for Japanese tourists. Its tourist hub, Tumon, features over 20 large hotels, a Duty Free Shoppers Galleria, Pleasure Island district, indoor aquarium, Sandcastle Las Vegas–styled shows and other shopping and entertainment venues.
It is a relatively short flight from Asia or Australia compared to Hawaii, with hotels and seven public golf courses accommodating over a million tourists per year.
Although 75% of the tourists are Japanese, Guam receives a sizable number of tourists from South Korea, the U.S., the Philippines, and Taiwan.Significant sources of revenue include duty-free designer shopping outlets, and the American-style malls: Micronesia Mall, Guam Premier Outlets, the Agana Shopping Center, and the world's largest Kmart.
The economy had been stable since 2000 due to increased tourism, but took a recent downturn along with the rest of the global economy. It is expected to stabilize with the transfer of U.S. Marine Corps' 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, currently in Okinawa, Japan,approximately 8,000 Marines, along with their 10,000 dependents, to Guam between 2010 and 2015. In 2003, Guam had a 14% unemployment rate, and the government suffered a $314 million shortfall.
The Compacts of Free Association between the United States, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau accorded the former entities of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands a political status of "free association" with the United States.
The Compacts give citizens of these island nations generally no restrictions to reside in the United States,also its territories and many were attracted to Guam due to its proximity, environmental, and cultural familiarity. Over the years, it was claimed by some in Guam that the territory has had to bear the brunt of this agreement in the form of public assistance programs and public education for those from the regions involved, and the federal government should compensate the states and territories affected by this type of migration.
Over the years, Congress had appropriated "Compact Impact" aids to Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and Hawaii, and eventually this appropriation was written into each renewed Compact. Some, however, continue to claim the compensation is not enough or that the distribution of actual compensation received is significantly disproportionate.
As of 2008 Guam's largest single private sector employer, with about 1,400 jobs, was Continental Micronesia, a subsidiary of Continental Airlines;it is now a part of United Airlines, a subsidiary of Chicago-based United Continental Holdings, Inc.As of 2008 the Continental Micronesia annual payroll in Guam was $90 million.
Ecological Problems
Brown tree snake
Believed to be a stowaway on a U.S. military transport near the end of World War II, the brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) was accidentally introduced to Guam, that previously had no native species of snake. It nearly eliminated the native bird population.
The problem was exacerbated because the snake has no natural predators on the island. The brown tree snake, known locally as the kulebla, is native to northern and eastern coasts of Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. It is slightly venomous, but relatively harmless to human beings; it is nocturnal.
Although some studies have suggested a high density of these serpents on Guam, residents rarely see them. The United States Department of Agriculture has trained detector dogs to keep the snakes out of the island's cargo flow. The United States Geological Survey also has dogs that can detect snakes in forested environments around the region's islands.
Before the introduction of the brown tree snake, Guam was home to several endemic bird species. Among them were the Guam rail (or ko'ko' bird in Chamorro) and the Guam flycatcher, both common throughout the island. Today the flycatcher is entirely extinct and the Guam rail is extinct in the wild but bred in captivity by the Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources.
The devastation caused by the snake has been significant over the past several decades. As many as twelve bird species are believed to have been driven to extinction.According to many elders, ko'ko' birds were common in Guam before World War II.
Other bird species threatened by the brown tree snake include the Mariana crow, the Mariana swiftlet, and the Micronesian starling, though populations are present on other islands, including Rota.
Guam is said to have many more insects and 40 times more spiders than neighboring islands, because their natural predators birds are severely diminished, and the forests are almost completely silent due to lack of birdsong.
Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle
An infestation of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB), Oryctes rhinoceros, was detected on Guam on September 12, 2007. CRB is not known to occur in the United States except in American Samoa. Delimiting surveys performed September 13–25, 2007 indicated that the infestation was limited to Tumon Bay and Faifai Beach, an area of approximately 900 acres (3.6 km2).
Guam Department of Agriculture (GDA) placed quarantine on all properties within the Tumon area on October 5 and later expanded the quarantine to about 2,500 acres (10 km2) on October 25; approximately 0.5 miles (800 m) radius in all directions from all known locations of CRB infestation.
CRB is native to Southern Asia and distributed throughout Asia and the Western Pacific including Sri Lanka, Upolu, Samoa, American Samoa, Palau, New Britain, West Irian, New Ireland, Pak Island and Manus Island (New Guinea), Fiji, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Mauritius, and Reunion.
Other invasive species
From the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries, the Spanish introduced pigs, dogs, chickens, the Philippine deer (Rusa mariannus), black francolins, and carabao (a subspecies of water buffalo), which have cultural significance. Herds of carabao obstruct military base operations and harm native ecosystems. After birth control and adoption efforts were ineffective, the U.S. military began culling the herds in 2002 leading to organized protests from island residents.
Other introduced species include cane toads imported in 1937, the giant African snail (an agricultural pest introduced during World War II by Japanese occupation troops) and more recently frog species which could threaten crops in addition to providing additional food for the brown tree snake population. Reports of loud chirping frogs native to Puerto Rico and known as coquí, that may have arrived from Hawaii, have led to fears that the noise could threaten Guam's tourism.
Introduced feral pigs and deer, over-hunting, and habitat loss from human development are also major factors in the decline and loss of Guam's native plants and animals.
Invading animal species are not the only threat to Guam's native flora. Tinangaja, a virus affecting coconut palms, was first observed on the island in 1917 when copra production was still a major part of Guam's economy. Though coconut plantations no longer exist on the island, the dead and infected trees that have resulted from the epidemic are seen throughout the forests of Guam.
During the past century, the dense forests of northern Guam have been largely replaced by thick tangan-tangan brush (Leucaena leucocephala). Much of Guam's foliage was lost during World War II. In 1947, the U.S. military is thought to have planted tangan-tangan by seeding the island from the air to prevent erosion. Tangan-tangan was present on the island before 1905.
In southern Guam, non-native grass species dominate much of the landscape. Although the colorful and impressive flame tree (Delonix regia) is found throughout the Marianas, the tree on Guam has been largely decimated.
Wildfires
Wildfires plague the forested areas of Guam every dry season despite the island's humid climate. Most fires are man-caused with 80% resulting from arson.Poachers often start fires to attract deer to the new growth. Invasive grass species that rely on fire as part of their natural life cycle grow in many regularly burned areas. Grasslands and "barrens" have replaced previously forested areas leading to greater soil erosion.
During the rainy season sediment is carried by the heavy rains into the Fena Lake Reservoir and Ugum River, leading to water quality problems for southern Guam. Eroded silt also destroys the marine life in reefs around the island. Soil stabilization efforts by volunteers and forestry workers (planting trees) have had little success in preserving natural habitats.
Aquatic preserves
Having previously experienced extensive dredging, Tumon Bay is now a marine wildlife preserve.
Efforts have been made to protect Guam's coral reef habitats from pollution, eroded silt and overfishing, problems that have led to decreased fish populations. Since Guam is a significant vacation spot for scuba divers, this is important. In recent years, the Department of Agriculture, Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources has established several new marine preserves where fish populations are monitored by biologists.
Before adopting U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards, portions of Tumon Bay were dredged by the hotel chains to provide a better experience for hotel guests.
Tumon Bay has since been made into a preserve. A federal Guam National Wildlife Refuge in northern Guam protects the decimated sea turtle population in addition to a small colony of Mariana fruit bats.
Harvest of sea turtle eggs was a common occurrence on Guam before World War II. The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) was harvested legally on Guam before August 1978, when it was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) has been on the endangered list since 1970. In an effort to ensure protection of sea turtles on Guam, routine sightings are counted during aerial surveys and nest sites are recorded and monitored for hatchlings.
Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Conservation: News,Stories And Experiences From Allover The World
Saturday, 15 April 2017
Cannabis In The Northern Mariana Islands
Cannabis in the Northern Mariana Islands is illegal, both for medical and recreational purposes. Per the 2012 UNODC World Drug Report, the United States Territory of CNMI has the second highest marijuana consumption per capital of any nation in the world, at 22.2%.
Per the National Drug Intelligence Center's Northern Mariana Islands Drug Threat Assessment of October 2003:
Marijuana is readily available and widely abused in the CNMI; however, it is difficult to quantify the extent of marijuana abuse due to the lack of drug abuse statistics and marijuana-related survey data for the CNMI.
From 2000 to 2001 law enforcement eradication efforts caused a decrease in local cannabis cultivation, and distributors had to obtain most of their marijuana from sources outside the commonwealth. As a result, prices increased dramatically.
A joint (0.5 gram), also known as a stick, of marijuana sold for an average price of $2.50 from 1997 to 1999 when supplies of locally produced marijuana were plentiful. The price of a joint subsequently increased to $20 to $50.
In addition, sandwich bags (nickel and dime bags) of marijuana have been replaced by 1-inch-square, resealable bags containing small quantities of marijuana that sell for $20 to $35 each.
Tourists typically are charged higher prices for retail quantities of marijuana than are local residents. At the wholesale level in Saipan, marijuana sells for approximately $1,500 per pound.
As a result of strong eradication efforts by law enforcement, cannabis cultivation in the CNMI is primarily limited to small quantities intended for personal use.
CNMI authorities now focus on undercover operations, controlled purchases, and border interdiction.
According to the Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Bureau, marijuana is transported to the CNMI by criminal groups that cultivate cannabis in the Philippines and the neighboring island of the Republic of Palau.
Filipino criminal groups typically transport marijuana in cargo containers aboard commercial maritime vessels. Criminal groups from Palau generally pay couriers to transport marijuana concealed on their bodies or packed in coolers.
Local cultivators in the CNMI also transport small quantities of marijuana from island to island.
In 2010, the CNMI House of Representatives approved a legalization bill to regulate and tax marijuana,but the measure ultimately failed.
Legality of cannabis in the United States
Legalized
Alaska California Colorado District of Columbia Maine Massachusetts Nevada Oregon Washington
Decriminalized
Connecticut Delaware Illinois Maryland Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Nebraska New York North Carolina Ohio Rhode Island U.S. Virgin Islands Vermont
Medical cannabis
Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont.
CBD oil only
Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Illegal
American Samoa, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Northern Mariana Islands, South Dakota, West Virginia.
Per the National Drug Intelligence Center's Northern Mariana Islands Drug Threat Assessment of October 2003:
Marijuana is readily available and widely abused in the CNMI; however, it is difficult to quantify the extent of marijuana abuse due to the lack of drug abuse statistics and marijuana-related survey data for the CNMI.
From 2000 to 2001 law enforcement eradication efforts caused a decrease in local cannabis cultivation, and distributors had to obtain most of their marijuana from sources outside the commonwealth. As a result, prices increased dramatically.
A joint (0.5 gram), also known as a stick, of marijuana sold for an average price of $2.50 from 1997 to 1999 when supplies of locally produced marijuana were plentiful. The price of a joint subsequently increased to $20 to $50.
In addition, sandwich bags (nickel and dime bags) of marijuana have been replaced by 1-inch-square, resealable bags containing small quantities of marijuana that sell for $20 to $35 each.
Tourists typically are charged higher prices for retail quantities of marijuana than are local residents. At the wholesale level in Saipan, marijuana sells for approximately $1,500 per pound.
As a result of strong eradication efforts by law enforcement, cannabis cultivation in the CNMI is primarily limited to small quantities intended for personal use.
CNMI authorities now focus on undercover operations, controlled purchases, and border interdiction.
According to the Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Bureau, marijuana is transported to the CNMI by criminal groups that cultivate cannabis in the Philippines and the neighboring island of the Republic of Palau.
Filipino criminal groups typically transport marijuana in cargo containers aboard commercial maritime vessels. Criminal groups from Palau generally pay couriers to transport marijuana concealed on their bodies or packed in coolers.
Local cultivators in the CNMI also transport small quantities of marijuana from island to island.
In 2010, the CNMI House of Representatives approved a legalization bill to regulate and tax marijuana,but the measure ultimately failed.
Legality of cannabis in the United States
Legalized
Alaska California Colorado District of Columbia Maine Massachusetts Nevada Oregon Washington
Decriminalized
Connecticut Delaware Illinois Maryland Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Nebraska New York North Carolina Ohio Rhode Island U.S. Virgin Islands Vermont
Medical cannabis
Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont.
CBD oil only
Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Illegal
American Samoa, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Northern Mariana Islands, South Dakota, West Virginia.
KENYA: Moving With Elephants
Greetings from Tumaren. Outside the office, as I type, a small herd of Elephants are breaking Acacia branches to get at the tasty bark. They are part of the second largest population of Elephants in Kenya and they are a welcome distraction from the accounts.
Elephants in fact are one of my favorite aspects of life in Laikipia and specifically of the walks I guide. On Tumaren, our conservation area, we often have several herds around and observing these animals is typically the highlight of my walks. Elephants, as most guests already know, are complex and intelligent animals and observing them on safari can be a life affirming pleasure.
It shouldn't be surprising that I think the best way to Elephant-watch is on foot, but it is. On foot we make our appoach always considering the wind direction. We are silent and slow and the animals are oblivious to our presence. Their behavior then is naturual and unrehearsed (even the tame animals in the game park behave differently when they are concious of a nearby vehicle or human smell).
Another life affirming aspect of walking with Elephants is the understanding of exactly where our species ranks in the wild. The African Elephant is the largest terrestrial species of animal on Earth. When you walk beside them you appreciate that fact. You feel small and it is humbling to realize how humans evolved beside such monstrous gentle giants.
The relationship, of course, has been a rocky one, especially in recent years. But all of our guests pay conservation fees that help safeguard our Eles among all the other fauna and flora and we are hugely thankful for that. Here are a few of our elephant achievements that we are quite proud of:
- Elephants Mums are now so comfortable that they regularly give birth on Tumaren. This is now a common occurence but it never happened when we first purchased the property.
- We have rescued one orphan named Tumaren who was sent to the Sheldrick orphanage and is now part of their orphan herd at Ithumba
- We no longer have snares in our area. The last snare we removed was many years ago.
- Through diligent patrols, our area is now no longer a safe place for poachers to operate in.
- Each year we guide a 100 mile walk to raise money for Elephant conservation efforts in Kenya.
Anyway, all our trumpeting best to you and your family.
Elephants in fact are one of my favorite aspects of life in Laikipia and specifically of the walks I guide. On Tumaren, our conservation area, we often have several herds around and observing these animals is typically the highlight of my walks. Elephants, as most guests already know, are complex and intelligent animals and observing them on safari can be a life affirming pleasure.
It shouldn't be surprising that I think the best way to Elephant-watch is on foot, but it is. On foot we make our appoach always considering the wind direction. We are silent and slow and the animals are oblivious to our presence. Their behavior then is naturual and unrehearsed (even the tame animals in the game park behave differently when they are concious of a nearby vehicle or human smell).
Another life affirming aspect of walking with Elephants is the understanding of exactly where our species ranks in the wild. The African Elephant is the largest terrestrial species of animal on Earth. When you walk beside them you appreciate that fact. You feel small and it is humbling to realize how humans evolved beside such monstrous gentle giants.
The relationship, of course, has been a rocky one, especially in recent years. But all of our guests pay conservation fees that help safeguard our Eles among all the other fauna and flora and we are hugely thankful for that. Here are a few of our elephant achievements that we are quite proud of:
- Elephants Mums are now so comfortable that they regularly give birth on Tumaren. This is now a common occurence but it never happened when we first purchased the property.
- We have rescued one orphan named Tumaren who was sent to the Sheldrick orphanage and is now part of their orphan herd at Ithumba
- We no longer have snares in our area. The last snare we removed was many years ago.
- Through diligent patrols, our area is now no longer a safe place for poachers to operate in.
- Each year we guide a 100 mile walk to raise money for Elephant conservation efforts in Kenya.
Anyway, all our trumpeting best to you and your family.
UAE: Dubai Allows Rooftop Restaurants On Hotels
In a major move, Dubai Municipality will be granting permission to the city hotels to build restaurants on rooftops as per specific planning requirements, said a report.
This in accordance with Decision No. 66 of 2007 regarding controls on some planning and structural modifications, reported state news agency Wam, citing Hussain Nasser Lootah, the director-general of Dubai Municipality.
The resolution stipulates that hotels are authorised to request permission for the construction of restaurants on rooftops according to specific planning requirements, which include that construction should not exceed 50 per cent of the roof floor area, that the maximum building area should not exceed 1,000 sq m, and that the lateral slope of the building on the rooftop should not be less than 1.5 m on all sides of the building, he added.
This in accordance with Decision No. 66 of 2007 regarding controls on some planning and structural modifications, reported state news agency Wam, citing Hussain Nasser Lootah, the director-general of Dubai Municipality.
The resolution stipulates that hotels are authorised to request permission for the construction of restaurants on rooftops according to specific planning requirements, which include that construction should not exceed 50 per cent of the roof floor area, that the maximum building area should not exceed 1,000 sq m, and that the lateral slope of the building on the rooftop should not be less than 1.5 m on all sides of the building, he added.
BAHRAIN: Hurafuna, Handicrafts Festival
The second edition of ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival was launched yesterday by the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani, at Bab Al Bahrain.
The event will run for a period of one week until April 18.
The inauguration was held in the presence of the chief executive officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, as well as representatives from the authority and members of the media.
“This event comes in line with BTEA’s strategy to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and offering which is aimed at attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world. The strategy implemented by the Authority also aims to develop the old Manama Souq and further enhance its position as a commercial and touristic hub both on a regional and international level. Manama Souq is one of the key locations in Bahrain that attracts Formula One visitors,” said Al Zayani.
The Minister also praised BTEA’s efforts to support the local handicrafts industry by showcasing and promoting the Bahraini talents.
Further commenting on the launch of ‘Hurafuna’, Shaikh Khalid said: "We decided to host this event during the Formula One Season to introduce and promote our handicraft industry to tourists from the region and around the world. Hurafuna is a unique family that appeals to the entire family.”
"The authority has always paid great attention to supporting Bahraini craftsmen and promoting their abilities and skills in order to enhance their contribution.
Also, we have launched a training program for artisans along with the seal of excellence that will be used for high quality Bahraini crafts in order to protect them from counterfeit products."
The launch of the handicrafts festival follows the success of the first edition that was held last year and reiterates BTEA’s commitment to enhancing the traditional handicrafts in the Kingdom and in preserving this skill for future generations by further developing the local craftsmanship and providing them with a platform to showcase their handmade goods.
More than 18 local craftsmen will be participating in the festival, showcase the local handicrafts to visitors who will get the opportunity to purchase traditional products such as hand-weaved baskets, traditional musical instruments and wooden boxes, pottery, model ships and much more.
The festival will also include live performances by traditional Bahraini bands, which will create a unique atmosphere and attract visitors while introducing them to the local heritage.
The ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival is expected to draw in a large audience, especially seeing the increase in the number of tourists coming in from the region and the rest of world. The festival will also position the kingdom as a distinctive family tourism destination that offers unique local goods and attractions. The event will be open to the public free of charge.
The event will run for a period of one week until April 18.
The inauguration was held in the presence of the chief executive officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, as well as representatives from the authority and members of the media.
“This event comes in line with BTEA’s strategy to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and offering which is aimed at attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world. The strategy implemented by the Authority also aims to develop the old Manama Souq and further enhance its position as a commercial and touristic hub both on a regional and international level. Manama Souq is one of the key locations in Bahrain that attracts Formula One visitors,” said Al Zayani.
The Minister also praised BTEA’s efforts to support the local handicrafts industry by showcasing and promoting the Bahraini talents.
Further commenting on the launch of ‘Hurafuna’, Shaikh Khalid said: "We decided to host this event during the Formula One Season to introduce and promote our handicraft industry to tourists from the region and around the world. Hurafuna is a unique family that appeals to the entire family.”
"The authority has always paid great attention to supporting Bahraini craftsmen and promoting their abilities and skills in order to enhance their contribution.
Also, we have launched a training program for artisans along with the seal of excellence that will be used for high quality Bahraini crafts in order to protect them from counterfeit products."
The launch of the handicrafts festival follows the success of the first edition that was held last year and reiterates BTEA’s commitment to enhancing the traditional handicrafts in the Kingdom and in preserving this skill for future generations by further developing the local craftsmanship and providing them with a platform to showcase their handmade goods.
More than 18 local craftsmen will be participating in the festival, showcase the local handicrafts to visitors who will get the opportunity to purchase traditional products such as hand-weaved baskets, traditional musical instruments and wooden boxes, pottery, model ships and much more.
The festival will also include live performances by traditional Bahraini bands, which will create a unique atmosphere and attract visitors while introducing them to the local heritage.
The ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival is expected to draw in a large audience, especially seeing the increase in the number of tourists coming in from the region and the rest of world. The festival will also position the kingdom as a distinctive family tourism destination that offers unique local goods and attractions. The event will be open to the public free of charge.
SUDAN: New GM for Corinthia Hotel Khartoum In The Names Of Bernard Mercier
Bernard Mercier has joined Corinthia Hotels, the collection of luxury hotels around the world, as general manager for Corinthia Hotel Khartoum in Sudan.
He joins Corinthia this month from his previous role as managing director, Trump Hotel Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
Mercier is an internationally experienced hotelier with senior roles in renowned hotel chains and groups including InterContinental, Sheraton, Orient Express, Kempinski and members of The Leading Hotels of the World.
Swiss by birth, Mercier attended the Hotel School in Lausanne.
His senior positions have taken him to Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, China, Mexico, French Polynesia, the Philippines and Hong Kong, resulting in a deep understanding of diverse and distinct cultures.
“We are delighted to welcome Bernard Mercier at the helm of our operations in Khartoum. Sudan is entering an exciting new phase in terms of economic development and the Corinthia Hotel is well poised to consolidate our leading role in the city’s hospitality sector,” said Simon Naudi, CEO of Corinthia Hotels.
Khartoum is a gateway to Central Africa and the five-star Corinthia Hotel Khartoum is located in the heart of the city’s commercial district.
With 230 bedrooms, eight meeting rooms, six restaurants and cafes plus a spa and gym, it is the leading hotel in the city and overlooks the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers.
He joins Corinthia this month from his previous role as managing director, Trump Hotel Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
Mercier is an internationally experienced hotelier with senior roles in renowned hotel chains and groups including InterContinental, Sheraton, Orient Express, Kempinski and members of The Leading Hotels of the World.
Swiss by birth, Mercier attended the Hotel School in Lausanne.
His senior positions have taken him to Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, China, Mexico, French Polynesia, the Philippines and Hong Kong, resulting in a deep understanding of diverse and distinct cultures.
“We are delighted to welcome Bernard Mercier at the helm of our operations in Khartoum. Sudan is entering an exciting new phase in terms of economic development and the Corinthia Hotel is well poised to consolidate our leading role in the city’s hospitality sector,” said Simon Naudi, CEO of Corinthia Hotels.
Khartoum is a gateway to Central Africa and the five-star Corinthia Hotel Khartoum is located in the heart of the city’s commercial district.
With 230 bedrooms, eight meeting rooms, six restaurants and cafes plus a spa and gym, it is the leading hotel in the city and overlooks the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers.
CHINA: China Leads In International Outbound Tourism
China continues to lead international outbound tourism, as international tourism expenditure from that country grew by $11 billion to $ 261 billion, an increase of 12 per cent, as reported in the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer.
The number of outbound travellers rose 6 per cent to 135 million in 2016. This growth consolidates China’s position as number one source market in the world since 2012, following a trend of double-digit growth in tourism expenditure every year since 2004.
The US, Germany, UK and France closed the list as the top five spenders on outbound trips.
“The latest data on outbound tourism spending is very encouraging. Despite the many challenges of recent years, results of spending on travel abroad are consistent with the 4 per cent growth to 1.2 billion international tourist arrivals reported earlier this year for 2016. People continue to have a strong appetite for travel and this benefits many countries all around the world, translating into economic growth, job creation and opportunities for development” said UNWTO secretary-general, Taleb Rifai.
The growth in outbound travel from China benefited many destinations in Asia and the Pacific, most notably Japan, the Republic of Korea and Thailand, but also long-haul destinations such as the United States and several in Europe.
Aside from China, three other Asian outbound markets among the first 10 showed very positive results. The Republic of Korea ($27 billion) and Australia ($27 billion) both spent 8 per cent more in 2016 and Hong Kong (China) entered the top 10 following 5 per cent growth in expenditure ($24 billion).
Second largest market the United States maintains strength
Tourism spending from the US, the world’s second largest source market, increased 8 per cent in 2016 to $122 billion, up $9 billion on 2015. For a third year in a row, strong outbound demand was fuelled by a robust US dollar and economy. The number of US residents travelling to international destinations increased 8 per cent through November 2016 (74 million in 2015).
By contrast, Canada, the second source market from the Americas in the top 10, reported flat results, with $29 billion spent on international tourism, while the number of outbound overnight trips declined by 3 per cent to 31 million.
Germany, the UK, France and Italy lead tourism spending in Europe
Germany, UK, France and Italy are the four European markets in the top 10 and all reported growth in outbound demand last year. Germany, the world’s third largest market, reported 5 per cent growth in international tourism spending last year, rebounding from weaker figures in 2015, reaching $81 billion.
Demand from the UK, the world’s fourth largest source market, remained sound despite the significant depreciation of the British pound in 2016. UK residents' visits abroad were up by 5 million (up 7 per cent) in 2016 to 70 million, with expenditure close to $64 billion.
France, the world’s fifth largest market, reported 7 per cent growth in tourism expenditure in 2016 to reach $41 billion. Italy recorded 1 per cent growth in spending to $25 billion and a 3 per cent increase in overnight trips to 29 million.
Many more source markets report growing outbound expenditure
Among the largest 50 source markets, there were another nine that recorded double-digit growth in spending in 2016: Vietnam (up 28 per cent), Argentina (up 26 per cent), Egypt (19 per cent), Spain (up 17 per cent), India (up 16 per cent), Israel and Ukraine (both up 12 per cent), Qatar and Thailand (both up 11 per cent).
By contrast, outbound tourism from some commodity exporters continued to be depressed as a consequence of their weaker economy and currencies. Expenditure from the Russian Federation declined further in 2016 to $24 billion. International tourism spending from Brazil also decreased in 2016.
The number of outbound travellers rose 6 per cent to 135 million in 2016. This growth consolidates China’s position as number one source market in the world since 2012, following a trend of double-digit growth in tourism expenditure every year since 2004.
The US, Germany, UK and France closed the list as the top five spenders on outbound trips.
“The latest data on outbound tourism spending is very encouraging. Despite the many challenges of recent years, results of spending on travel abroad are consistent with the 4 per cent growth to 1.2 billion international tourist arrivals reported earlier this year for 2016. People continue to have a strong appetite for travel and this benefits many countries all around the world, translating into economic growth, job creation and opportunities for development” said UNWTO secretary-general, Taleb Rifai.
The growth in outbound travel from China benefited many destinations in Asia and the Pacific, most notably Japan, the Republic of Korea and Thailand, but also long-haul destinations such as the United States and several in Europe.
Aside from China, three other Asian outbound markets among the first 10 showed very positive results. The Republic of Korea ($27 billion) and Australia ($27 billion) both spent 8 per cent more in 2016 and Hong Kong (China) entered the top 10 following 5 per cent growth in expenditure ($24 billion).
Second largest market the United States maintains strength
Tourism spending from the US, the world’s second largest source market, increased 8 per cent in 2016 to $122 billion, up $9 billion on 2015. For a third year in a row, strong outbound demand was fuelled by a robust US dollar and economy. The number of US residents travelling to international destinations increased 8 per cent through November 2016 (74 million in 2015).
By contrast, Canada, the second source market from the Americas in the top 10, reported flat results, with $29 billion spent on international tourism, while the number of outbound overnight trips declined by 3 per cent to 31 million.
Germany, the UK, France and Italy lead tourism spending in Europe
Germany, UK, France and Italy are the four European markets in the top 10 and all reported growth in outbound demand last year. Germany, the world’s third largest market, reported 5 per cent growth in international tourism spending last year, rebounding from weaker figures in 2015, reaching $81 billion.
Demand from the UK, the world’s fourth largest source market, remained sound despite the significant depreciation of the British pound in 2016. UK residents' visits abroad were up by 5 million (up 7 per cent) in 2016 to 70 million, with expenditure close to $64 billion.
France, the world’s fifth largest market, reported 7 per cent growth in tourism expenditure in 2016 to reach $41 billion. Italy recorded 1 per cent growth in spending to $25 billion and a 3 per cent increase in overnight trips to 29 million.
Many more source markets report growing outbound expenditure
Among the largest 50 source markets, there were another nine that recorded double-digit growth in spending in 2016: Vietnam (up 28 per cent), Argentina (up 26 per cent), Egypt (19 per cent), Spain (up 17 per cent), India (up 16 per cent), Israel and Ukraine (both up 12 per cent), Qatar and Thailand (both up 11 per cent).
By contrast, outbound tourism from some commodity exporters continued to be depressed as a consequence of their weaker economy and currencies. Expenditure from the Russian Federation declined further in 2016 to $24 billion. International tourism spending from Brazil also decreased in 2016.
PHILIPPINES: Viability Of Philippine Tourism Under President Duterte
A group of travel executives, joined by a team from the ABS-CBN Europe news bureau, flew from the United Kingdom to Manila and Boracay Island to test the viability of Philippine tourism under the new leadership of the crime-busting president President Duterte.
The goal was to see what the country has to offer British tourists, as violence amid the President's relentless anti-crime campaign is seen to potentially have a negative impact on the tourism industry.
The tough leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, whose war on drugs has left thousands of suspected users and pushers dead, has alarmed some local tourism operators. They fear extrajudicial killings related to the anti-drug campaign might discourage tourists from visiting Boracay or the Philippines.
More than 7,000 people have died in the anti-drug war, but the Duterte administration has maintained that less than half could be attributed to police anti-drug operations.
But the executives are optimistic.
UK-based travel executive John Kalia, director of Crystal Travel, in partnership, with Turkish Airlines, organized the familiarization tour on Boracay island to better market the beach destination to European travellers.
The 7-day trip included a quick tour of Manila’s financial district in Makati, the Luneta Park, and the historic Fort Santiago and Intramuros.
The tour also included a visit to the oldest premier hotel in the Philippines, the Manila Hotel, the penthouse of which served as the residence of General Douglas MacArthur during his tenure as military advisor in the Philippines during the Commonwealth government. The hotel has since housed world leaders, royals and iconic stars.
Three nights were then spent in Boracay, Aklan.
Boracay continues to attract local and foreign tourists. During the first half of 2016, almost one million tourists visited the island, an increase of 15 percent from the previous year.
Tourist arrivals are good for local business.
“With the booming of Boracay, with hotels coming in, I think mas maganda pa ang future ng Boracay. For this year, we already sold 50 percent of the total number of rooms, until December of 2018. It’s good for us. The trend is going up. In fact, we are building more rooms this year. We are building at least 114 first and maybe (total of) 200 more rooms,” said Darvin Chia, General Manager of Crown Regency Hotels and Resorts.
Last year, Boracay was named the best island in the world by Conde Naste Traveller, beating other Philippine beach destinations such as Palawan and Cebu. With this image boost, Kalia is confident his agents could better sell the Philippines to British holidaymakers.
“The key selling point I believe is the city, Manila, which has a lot of history, and you have the islands. Obviously, Philippines is famous for its 7,000 plus islands, and Boracay has been a great experience, where you have an island atmosphere,” said Kalia.
He added: “It was a great experience. You wouldn’t really do that with Thailand and other competitive countries, where you soak up the sun and have value for money.”
The travel executives who came to see Boracay and experienced the hospitality of the locals are impressed.
“It's the sea, it's the culture, it's the history. It's a beautiful place. I would recommend it to my friends,” said Uzma Adil, Sales and Markeing executive of Turkish Airlines.
Many of them also agree that the country’s tourism will not be a casualty of the president’s war on drugs.
The goal was to see what the country has to offer British tourists, as violence amid the President's relentless anti-crime campaign is seen to potentially have a negative impact on the tourism industry.
The tough leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, whose war on drugs has left thousands of suspected users and pushers dead, has alarmed some local tourism operators. They fear extrajudicial killings related to the anti-drug campaign might discourage tourists from visiting Boracay or the Philippines.
More than 7,000 people have died in the anti-drug war, but the Duterte administration has maintained that less than half could be attributed to police anti-drug operations.
But the executives are optimistic.
UK-based travel executive John Kalia, director of Crystal Travel, in partnership, with Turkish Airlines, organized the familiarization tour on Boracay island to better market the beach destination to European travellers.
The 7-day trip included a quick tour of Manila’s financial district in Makati, the Luneta Park, and the historic Fort Santiago and Intramuros.
The tour also included a visit to the oldest premier hotel in the Philippines, the Manila Hotel, the penthouse of which served as the residence of General Douglas MacArthur during his tenure as military advisor in the Philippines during the Commonwealth government. The hotel has since housed world leaders, royals and iconic stars.
Three nights were then spent in Boracay, Aklan.
Boracay continues to attract local and foreign tourists. During the first half of 2016, almost one million tourists visited the island, an increase of 15 percent from the previous year.
Tourist arrivals are good for local business.
“With the booming of Boracay, with hotels coming in, I think mas maganda pa ang future ng Boracay. For this year, we already sold 50 percent of the total number of rooms, until December of 2018. It’s good for us. The trend is going up. In fact, we are building more rooms this year. We are building at least 114 first and maybe (total of) 200 more rooms,” said Darvin Chia, General Manager of Crown Regency Hotels and Resorts.
Last year, Boracay was named the best island in the world by Conde Naste Traveller, beating other Philippine beach destinations such as Palawan and Cebu. With this image boost, Kalia is confident his agents could better sell the Philippines to British holidaymakers.
“The key selling point I believe is the city, Manila, which has a lot of history, and you have the islands. Obviously, Philippines is famous for its 7,000 plus islands, and Boracay has been a great experience, where you have an island atmosphere,” said Kalia.
He added: “It was a great experience. You wouldn’t really do that with Thailand and other competitive countries, where you soak up the sun and have value for money.”
The travel executives who came to see Boracay and experienced the hospitality of the locals are impressed.
“It's the sea, it's the culture, it's the history. It's a beautiful place. I would recommend it to my friends,” said Uzma Adil, Sales and Markeing executive of Turkish Airlines.
Many of them also agree that the country’s tourism will not be a casualty of the president’s war on drugs.
INDIA: Tourism Ministry Talks About Liquor Ban
The tourism ministry is consulting the road transport & highways ministry and the law ministry, among others, on options for the hospitality industry after the Supreme Court said its ban on alcohol sales near highways includes hotels and restaurants, apart from liquor vends.
“Inter-ministerial consultations are going on to gauge the next steps in the matter and to see which way this is going. We are willing to be proactive and sympathetic and there is a feeling that some kind of relief needs to be given,” Suman Billa, joint secretary in the tourism ministry, told ET. “Now it is up to the aggrieved parties to place the matter before the court. If they do, as the Ministry of Tourism, we would have a position on that and we would be happy to convey that to the court.”
Billa said the court’s decision will adversely affect incoming tourist numbers in the coming months. Foreign tourist arrivals in India climbed to 8.89 million in 2016 from 6.97 million in 2013. Foreign exchange earnings from overseas tourists rose to $23.15 billion last year from $18.45 billion in 2013.
“There will be a negative impact – no two ways about it. We are not concerned about the liquor vends as such, we are only concerned about the hotels. Hotels are close to airports and manufacturing hubs and I don’t think people are going to the five-star hotels to drink and tipple on their way,” said Billa. The ministry official said there needs to be a distinction between people driving on highways and travellers staying in fivestar hotels. “The hotels affected currently would see a drop in incoming numbers. Business events could move to other countries,” he said.
The apex court’s March 31 ruling on the liquor ban within 500 metres of national and state highways came as a rude jolt to the hospitality industry, forcing affected hotels, restaurants and pubs to stop serving alcohol, leading to a drop in sales and tax revenue. The court’s decision is aimed at curbing road accidents and deaths caused by drunken driving.
“Inter-ministerial consultations are going on to gauge the next steps in the matter and to see which way this is going. We are willing to be proactive and sympathetic and there is a feeling that some kind of relief needs to be given,” Suman Billa, joint secretary in the tourism ministry, told ET. “Now it is up to the aggrieved parties to place the matter before the court. If they do, as the Ministry of Tourism, we would have a position on that and we would be happy to convey that to the court.”
Billa said the court’s decision will adversely affect incoming tourist numbers in the coming months. Foreign tourist arrivals in India climbed to 8.89 million in 2016 from 6.97 million in 2013. Foreign exchange earnings from overseas tourists rose to $23.15 billion last year from $18.45 billion in 2013.
“There will be a negative impact – no two ways about it. We are not concerned about the liquor vends as such, we are only concerned about the hotels. Hotels are close to airports and manufacturing hubs and I don’t think people are going to the five-star hotels to drink and tipple on their way,” said Billa. The ministry official said there needs to be a distinction between people driving on highways and travellers staying in fivestar hotels. “The hotels affected currently would see a drop in incoming numbers. Business events could move to other countries,” he said.
The apex court’s March 31 ruling on the liquor ban within 500 metres of national and state highways came as a rude jolt to the hospitality industry, forcing affected hotels, restaurants and pubs to stop serving alcohol, leading to a drop in sales and tax revenue. The court’s decision is aimed at curbing road accidents and deaths caused by drunken driving.
Swaziland Tourism Authority At WTM Africa
Swaziland Tourism Authority exhibits at WTM Africa 2017
The Swaziland Tourism Authority will be showcasing the magnificent offerings that the beautiful Kingdom of Swaziland has to offer at the World Travel Market Africa taking place from 19th to the 21st of April 2017 at the CTICC in Cape Town.
Swaziland is one of the few remaining Executive Monarchies in Africa, embracing and upholding its unique and century-old traditions. This country may be small, but it has a lot to offer its visitors.
What it lacks in size it certainly makes up for with heart, soul and boasts phenomenal business etiquette. Swaziland offers a kaleidoscope of travel opportunities, business ventures and world class accommodation.
Travel professionals, media and fellow exhibitors from all over the world will have the opportunity to engage with the STA as well as its stand partners to gather the necessary information to assist the industry in not only raising the profile of the destination but also increasing the visitor arrivals to the Kingdom.
'The STA have participated at the World Travel Market Africa for a few years and it has always been a huge success for us and our stand partners, as we promote the Kingdom of Swaziland together. It is encouraging to see the interest grow year-on-year, and we look forward to being part of this prestigious event again this year' comments Bongani Dlamini, Marketing Manager.
The World Travel Market delivers the leading global events for the travel industry. One of six shows in the WTM portfolio, the Africa show brings both the benefits and opportunities of the global industry expertise to travel professionals in this region.
Taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, nearly 5000 travel industry professionals attend Africa’s leading and only business to business (B2B) exhibition for inbound and outbound Africa travel and tourism markets.
The Swaziland Tourism Authority (STA) was established by an act of parliament, the Tourism Authority, Act of 2001. It was established as a public enterprise. In terms of the Act the following objectives have been determined for STA;
Develop the tourism sector as a national priority in an environmentally sustainable and culturally acceptable manner,
Coordinate and facilitate the implementation of government policies and strategies on tourism,
Market Swaziland as a tourism destination through the provision of a platform for industry stakeholders,
Encourage, facilitate and promote local and foreign investment in the tourism industry, and
Ensure the contribution of tourism to the socio-economic development and continued improvement of quality of life in the Kingdom of Swaziland
The Swaziland Tourism Authority will be showcasing the magnificent offerings that the beautiful Kingdom of Swaziland has to offer at the World Travel Market Africa taking place from 19th to the 21st of April 2017 at the CTICC in Cape Town.
Swaziland is one of the few remaining Executive Monarchies in Africa, embracing and upholding its unique and century-old traditions. This country may be small, but it has a lot to offer its visitors.
What it lacks in size it certainly makes up for with heart, soul and boasts phenomenal business etiquette. Swaziland offers a kaleidoscope of travel opportunities, business ventures and world class accommodation.
Travel professionals, media and fellow exhibitors from all over the world will have the opportunity to engage with the STA as well as its stand partners to gather the necessary information to assist the industry in not only raising the profile of the destination but also increasing the visitor arrivals to the Kingdom.
'The STA have participated at the World Travel Market Africa for a few years and it has always been a huge success for us and our stand partners, as we promote the Kingdom of Swaziland together. It is encouraging to see the interest grow year-on-year, and we look forward to being part of this prestigious event again this year' comments Bongani Dlamini, Marketing Manager.
The World Travel Market delivers the leading global events for the travel industry. One of six shows in the WTM portfolio, the Africa show brings both the benefits and opportunities of the global industry expertise to travel professionals in this region.
Taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, nearly 5000 travel industry professionals attend Africa’s leading and only business to business (B2B) exhibition for inbound and outbound Africa travel and tourism markets.
The Swaziland Tourism Authority (STA) was established by an act of parliament, the Tourism Authority, Act of 2001. It was established as a public enterprise. In terms of the Act the following objectives have been determined for STA;
Develop the tourism sector as a national priority in an environmentally sustainable and culturally acceptable manner,
Coordinate and facilitate the implementation of government policies and strategies on tourism,
Market Swaziland as a tourism destination through the provision of a platform for industry stakeholders,
Encourage, facilitate and promote local and foreign investment in the tourism industry, and
Ensure the contribution of tourism to the socio-economic development and continued improvement of quality of life in the Kingdom of Swaziland
NIGERIA: FlyNas To Fly Nigerian Pilgrims For Hajj
Nigeria risks losing $68million to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the forthcoming 2017 hajj, following the allocation of 45 per cent of the total pilgrims to a Saudi Arabia-based airline, FlyNas, by National Hajj Commission (NAHCON).
Already, local stakeholders in the sector have raised eyebrow as they described the move as a “rip off that has the capacity to stunt growth in Nigeria airline industry.”
A source said that already “Airline business is mega box conducted in dollars and 45 per cent simply translated to a big minus to Nigeria because the country will lose so much money.”
In total, 95,000 Nigerian would be performing the 2017 hajj that attracted the lowest fee of N1,500,000 covering flight ticket, royalty, accommodation, intra and inter city travels and host of others.
Investigation revealed that NAHCON’s decision to engaged the services a Saudi Arabia-based airline Fly Nas for 2017 hajj was a lopsided policy that has further worsen unfavorable trade balance with the Saudis.
Commenting further on the implications of such policy, the aviation source said: “Instead of encouraging our indigenous airliners, NAHCON has ended up sending them away from the business circle in favour of a foreign airline. It is high time for the federal government to come to the aide of indigenous airliners before it is too late.”
But NAHCON Chief Media Relation Officer, Alhaji Adamu Hassan Abdullahi, in a telephone chat, confirmed the allocation of 45 per cent of total number of Nigerian pilgrims to Flynas, saying “it was a policy introduced by Saudi authority.”
He dismissed the anticipatory loss as ruse, stressing that “Nigeria is not going to lose $68million as claimed by the service providers.”
Similarly, there had been groundswell of protest across the 36 states pilgrims welfare boards over what they called “unilateral decision of NAHCON to impose carrier on them contrary to what was obtained in the past.
It was also learnt that in recent meeting held at Saudi Arabia by top Nigerian pilgrimage officials, they agreed among other things to fought and exert their independence and block overbearing influence of the regulatory agency.
the source said the process was still one but from the look of things, NAHCON would not do justice to the state pilgrims’ boards, as according to him if care is not taken, the commission will just allocate airlines to states without consulting the states as it does last year.
When contacted, the National Hajj Commission Chief Media Relation Officer, Alhaji Adamu Hassan Abdullahi in a telephone chat noted that the Hajj regulatory agency was not blame for the policy.
“the Saudi Authority imposed Flynas on countries participating in hajj operation, and according to the policy each country must allocate 50 per cent of its total pilgrims to Flynas.”
Speaking further, “NAHCON chairman insisted that it should not be 50/50 and because of the good relationship between Nigeria and Saudi, we are allowed to allocate 45 per cent instead of 50 per cent.”
He said “unlike Nigeria, Niger Republic and Senegal had to allocate all their pilgrims to Flynas because Kabo air that usually operates in the two countries was denied a chance for being a foreign airline, and to be honest with you, Nigeria is not going to lose $68million as claimed by the service providers” .
Consequently, NAHCON image Maker advised the service providers to blame Saudi Authorities and not the Hajj regulatory agency.
He said instead, NAHCON is fighting for Nigerian businessmen, as according to him the commission is in discussion with the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to see how Nigerian businessmen can import goods to Saudi during hajj.
Already, local stakeholders in the sector have raised eyebrow as they described the move as a “rip off that has the capacity to stunt growth in Nigeria airline industry.”
A source said that already “Airline business is mega box conducted in dollars and 45 per cent simply translated to a big minus to Nigeria because the country will lose so much money.”
In total, 95,000 Nigerian would be performing the 2017 hajj that attracted the lowest fee of N1,500,000 covering flight ticket, royalty, accommodation, intra and inter city travels and host of others.
Investigation revealed that NAHCON’s decision to engaged the services a Saudi Arabia-based airline Fly Nas for 2017 hajj was a lopsided policy that has further worsen unfavorable trade balance with the Saudis.
Commenting further on the implications of such policy, the aviation source said: “Instead of encouraging our indigenous airliners, NAHCON has ended up sending them away from the business circle in favour of a foreign airline. It is high time for the federal government to come to the aide of indigenous airliners before it is too late.”
But NAHCON Chief Media Relation Officer, Alhaji Adamu Hassan Abdullahi, in a telephone chat, confirmed the allocation of 45 per cent of total number of Nigerian pilgrims to Flynas, saying “it was a policy introduced by Saudi authority.”
He dismissed the anticipatory loss as ruse, stressing that “Nigeria is not going to lose $68million as claimed by the service providers.”
Similarly, there had been groundswell of protest across the 36 states pilgrims welfare boards over what they called “unilateral decision of NAHCON to impose carrier on them contrary to what was obtained in the past.
It was also learnt that in recent meeting held at Saudi Arabia by top Nigerian pilgrimage officials, they agreed among other things to fought and exert their independence and block overbearing influence of the regulatory agency.
the source said the process was still one but from the look of things, NAHCON would not do justice to the state pilgrims’ boards, as according to him if care is not taken, the commission will just allocate airlines to states without consulting the states as it does last year.
When contacted, the National Hajj Commission Chief Media Relation Officer, Alhaji Adamu Hassan Abdullahi in a telephone chat noted that the Hajj regulatory agency was not blame for the policy.
“the Saudi Authority imposed Flynas on countries participating in hajj operation, and according to the policy each country must allocate 50 per cent of its total pilgrims to Flynas.”
Speaking further, “NAHCON chairman insisted that it should not be 50/50 and because of the good relationship between Nigeria and Saudi, we are allowed to allocate 45 per cent instead of 50 per cent.”
He said “unlike Nigeria, Niger Republic and Senegal had to allocate all their pilgrims to Flynas because Kabo air that usually operates in the two countries was denied a chance for being a foreign airline, and to be honest with you, Nigeria is not going to lose $68million as claimed by the service providers” .
Consequently, NAHCON image Maker advised the service providers to blame Saudi Authorities and not the Hajj regulatory agency.
He said instead, NAHCON is fighting for Nigerian businessmen, as according to him the commission is in discussion with the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to see how Nigerian businessmen can import goods to Saudi during hajj.
ZIMBABWE: Airlines Ask For Cash, Because Of Shortage Of US Dollars
At least five global airlines including Qantas, Lufthansa, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, and Delta Air Lines have instructed travel agents in Zimbabwe to only accept hard currency in the form of cash when selling tickets to customers in the Southern African state.
Owing to crippling shortages of foreign currency, foreign airlines have been unable to remit funds generated through local ticket sales. This has resulted in multiple instances of non-settlement of obligations by Zimbabwe’s banks, the report stated.
The report quotes a letter written by Qantas’ regional manager for Africa, Michi Messner, to travel agents saying IATA had advised them that the situation with the repatriation of funds out of Zimbabwe was worsening.
“Although IATA and member airlines are proceeding with lobbying efforts, the last sales period settled is for P2 Oct 2016 and current delay is sitting at 138 days. Qantas has a substantial amount outstanding from BSP Zimbabwe (IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plan) and to avoid further risk, we’ve taken the decision to discontinue ticketing for all travel agents with access to our stock effective immediately,” she said.
Earlier this year, the paper quoted local industry sources as stating that up to USD30 million worth of remittances had yet to be transferred to airlines that currently serve Zimbabwe including Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Kenya Airways, Comair (South Africa) (operating as British Airways), Emirates, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Namibia, and Malawian Airlines.
Local state-owned carrier Air Zimbabwe has also been affected with several aircraft currently grounded as they await the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) to disburse the necessary funds needed to procure spare parts. Given the capacity shortage, aircraft have had to be wet-leased in Air Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer Ripton Muzenda said this week.
Zimbabwe’s already lingering foreign currency shortage has worsened since near centenarian president Robert Mugabe and his ZANU-PF government announced the introduction of a quasi-currency late last year. Under the programme, the RBZ has issued “Bond Notes” which have been given 1:1 parity value to their US Dollar equivalents.
However, instead of ameliorating the situation, the introduction of the notes has only exacerbated the shortage of hard currency given the local populace’s past experiences with world-record hyperinflation and the now deprecated Zimbabwe Dollar.
For his part, Mugabe has persistently blamed alleged US and European sanctions for suffocating economic growth. Critics, however, have instead pointed to anti-investment policies as well as pervasive corruption.
Friday, 14 April 2017
USA: United Airlines Shares Fall After Dragging Passenger Off A Flight
Investors still thought United Airlines' decision to forcibly eject a customer from an overbooked flight would have little effect on the company's profits.
But that changed Tuesday, when shares of United fell as much as 6.3% in pre-market trading, dropping $1.4 billion from the now $21 billion company by market cap. By early trading Tuesday, shares were down 4%.
It didn't help that apologies from United and its CEO Oscar Munoz were deemed tone deaf and insensitive by many on social media. Or that more video footage surfaced throughout the day Monday showing the passenger bleeding from the head and clinging to a curtain on the aircraft.
The incident even prompted an investigation by Department of Transportation.
And rather than blowing over after a night's rest, the outrage only grew after Munoz sent an email to employees late Monday defending his staff's action and calling the passenger "disruptive and belligerent." Soon enough, the anger became global, with some questioning the practice of overbooking flights.
In theory, a boycott against United should be a boon for other airlines as consumers seek other options. But that wasn't the case Tuesday, as shares of Southwest Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue also dropped roughly 1%, while the S&P 500 shed less than half a percentage point in comparison. The minor stock fluctuation may also be stemming from FCC chief Ajit Pai's announcement late Monday that he wanted to ban cell phone calls on flights. Shares of American Airlines on the other hand rose nearly 2% after it released a more favorable outlook for the first quarter.
United's 4% drop Tuesday could also be an overreaction to the sheer volume of negative sentiment and press surrounding the airline, at least according to CFRA's analyst Jim Corridore.
"We think this situation was handled in a deplorable fashion, but note that United has the right to refuse boarding to any passenger for any reason.We hope United will respond with apologies and procedural changes," he wrote in a Monday note. "Overall, we think demand for United Airlines flights are unlikely to be affected by this poor customer service incident."
But that changed Tuesday, when shares of United fell as much as 6.3% in pre-market trading, dropping $1.4 billion from the now $21 billion company by market cap. By early trading Tuesday, shares were down 4%.
It didn't help that apologies from United and its CEO Oscar Munoz were deemed tone deaf and insensitive by many on social media. Or that more video footage surfaced throughout the day Monday showing the passenger bleeding from the head and clinging to a curtain on the aircraft.
The incident even prompted an investigation by Department of Transportation.
And rather than blowing over after a night's rest, the outrage only grew after Munoz sent an email to employees late Monday defending his staff's action and calling the passenger "disruptive and belligerent." Soon enough, the anger became global, with some questioning the practice of overbooking flights.
In theory, a boycott against United should be a boon for other airlines as consumers seek other options. But that wasn't the case Tuesday, as shares of Southwest Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue also dropped roughly 1%, while the S&P 500 shed less than half a percentage point in comparison. The minor stock fluctuation may also be stemming from FCC chief Ajit Pai's announcement late Monday that he wanted to ban cell phone calls on flights. Shares of American Airlines on the other hand rose nearly 2% after it released a more favorable outlook for the first quarter.
United's 4% drop Tuesday could also be an overreaction to the sheer volume of negative sentiment and press surrounding the airline, at least according to CFRA's analyst Jim Corridore.
"We think this situation was handled in a deplorable fashion, but note that United has the right to refuse boarding to any passenger for any reason.We hope United will respond with apologies and procedural changes," he wrote in a Monday note. "Overall, we think demand for United Airlines flights are unlikely to be affected by this poor customer service incident."
HONG KONG: Visit Mongok, Enjoy Yourself
Hong Kong, they say, is an easy place to navigate. "Their MTR is amazing," they say. "You'll never get lost," they say. And yet every time I am go there, I do get lost. Hong Kong has no chill - in a good way. For somebody who is all chill, it's chaos. It's a chaos I've learned to love at an early age.
The first time I visited as an adult, my now-estranged BFF and I fought the entire time, over little things like "Where in the world is Soy Street?" I had a bad haircut and hated all our photos, and the only pair of shoes I brought hurt.
My next visit was my first trip alone and there was a typhoon. Victoria Harbour was chocolate brown, raging, almost like the Mekong on a good day. I got stuck in the hotel and almost missed my flight home because no cab would drive to the airport. A tree fell on a car. I stayed in the entire time.
Several visits later, I've gotten used to Hong Kong's oddball charm. Somebody always yells at me in public, mistaking me for someone who owes them something - without fail. I still can't navigate the city to save my life, but I've learned to enjoy getting lost.
Case in point: on my most recent visit, during which I stayed at the very well-placed Cordis Hotel at Langham Place which sent a very welcome basket of egg tarts to my room after checking in, I set out to hunt for vinyl records like I always do.
These little record-hunting expeditions of mine don't always go as planned well, more like never. This time around, I planned on visiting a place called Zoo Records on Nathan Road. Nathan Road is 3.6 kilometers.
I had to turn on my GPS to avoid wasting precious time. I arrived at President Commercial Center, a huge building that's hard to miss, at around 1 p.m. I know vinyl store shopkeepers are not early risers,there's one I go to in Makati that's rarely ever open - closed for NBA finals, closed for birthday of niece, closed because woke up late, so I thought coming after lunch would be a good idea.
I asked the lobby receptionist where Zoo Records is. He looked at me like I was out of my mind, so I looked for it myself. The shop, naturally, was closed. I came back at 4 p.m. Still closed.
I ended up in a small record shop with a nondescript second-floor entrance. I wasn't feeling so optimistic until I opened the door. When Doves Cry filled the place like buttery aural sunshine.
It was the day after Prince had passed away. The shop owner was blasting Prince hits from his super-impressive setup. There were about five customers in the room sifting through the records: four dad-like figures and myself. One of them bought "Purple Rain" - I salute the store for not inflating its price. I didn't buy anything but I went out feeling like the trip was worth it. It was a cool, solemn moment I shared with a bunch of Chinese strangers. You can't buy that.
That's the thing about being a stranger in a strange land. You get to bond with people over the oddest things, and then you never see them again. Like when I was walking down Argyle Street and stopped at a teashop that sold that tea with the "blooming" flower inside. I was told it'd been there forever. The lady handed her recommended tea over: "It's a beauty potion. Good for eyebags," she said. I did a real-life spit take. "It's okay, not for everyone," she laughed, and then gave me regular tea "for the road."
I sipped on it all the way to the Ladies Market, a treasure trove of familiar goods and memories of aching feet. It hasn't changed much, although I remember it being much more of a labyrinth. Behind the main street is a completely different look - where there were once stores of vintage clothing (a dress for $10), there stood an entire lane of shops that sold Stan Smiths and its hundred variations. Farther down the street are gadgets and electronics. Nothing looks familiar, save for the pavement. Wet, gray, stranger-friendly.
Other familiar things: that lone casino, the egg-waffle store that's always crowded, the flower market, the bird garden. Mongkok was a farming village, considered prosperous - now it's a market, a merging of past and present. Locals say if you want a taste of the real Hong Kong, plan your stay around Mongkok.
Cordis Hotel proved a convenient base; everything was within walking distance. I walked around with music on. I find that this helps me absorb the city better. In the same way that a perfume sears an event into memory, songs take me back to places I've wandered through. Now when I hear Wave of Mutilation, I will remember rushing back to the hotel for dinner and drinks, stinking like a sundrenched five-year-old.
Dinner at Michelin-starred Ming Court was epic. I will never, ever, say no to Chinese food. My favorite was the crab, served in a crabshell, on a silver crab plate. Crabception at its finest. Then the bartender at Alibi in Cordis served me a tito drink - something with a vodka and ginger beer, served in a sweaty copper tin mug. It was delicious. I had two.
In Hong Kong, the night is always young. After-drinks drinks were in order. I met up with a friend in Sheung Wan, at a bar that faced a sushi place, a closed massage parlor, and a stationary monk that everyone told us was a fake. Then I made a second attempt to see PMQ, which is always half-closed when I go, and it was again, as luck would have it. I cabbed it back to Mongkok and found that, at 2 a.m., it takes on its full market form. Fish, flowers, fruit, boxes upon boxes of all sorts of streets lined the road back home.
In my room I found a new very-welcome tray of goodies: three shot glasses that contained jelly beans, gummy bears and marshmallows, and three nail lacquers in Cordis Hotel's colors: orange, beige and black. I ordered room service to express my gratitude.
Mongkok, highly underrated, is the place to visit if you find yourself craving the real Hong Kong - not that any other part of it is less authentic, but Mongkok still has that old Hong Kong smell. You know that smell. Pavement, deep-fried street food, sweat. It's not unlike Manila at all, but you know it's of a different breed.
On the way back to Manila via Cathay Pacific, I enjoyed the peace and quiet of The Bridge and The Wing, havens for those who've already spent way too much to do any more shopping (or those too tired to do any more walking). After a noodle break and a generous serving of mango sticky rice, I am whisked to the plane for my return flight home, still kind of smelling like Mongkok , a welcome souvenir.
The first time I visited as an adult, my now-estranged BFF and I fought the entire time, over little things like "Where in the world is Soy Street?" I had a bad haircut and hated all our photos, and the only pair of shoes I brought hurt.
My next visit was my first trip alone and there was a typhoon. Victoria Harbour was chocolate brown, raging, almost like the Mekong on a good day. I got stuck in the hotel and almost missed my flight home because no cab would drive to the airport. A tree fell on a car. I stayed in the entire time.
Several visits later, I've gotten used to Hong Kong's oddball charm. Somebody always yells at me in public, mistaking me for someone who owes them something - without fail. I still can't navigate the city to save my life, but I've learned to enjoy getting lost.
Case in point: on my most recent visit, during which I stayed at the very well-placed Cordis Hotel at Langham Place which sent a very welcome basket of egg tarts to my room after checking in, I set out to hunt for vinyl records like I always do.
These little record-hunting expeditions of mine don't always go as planned well, more like never. This time around, I planned on visiting a place called Zoo Records on Nathan Road. Nathan Road is 3.6 kilometers.
I had to turn on my GPS to avoid wasting precious time. I arrived at President Commercial Center, a huge building that's hard to miss, at around 1 p.m. I know vinyl store shopkeepers are not early risers,there's one I go to in Makati that's rarely ever open - closed for NBA finals, closed for birthday of niece, closed because woke up late, so I thought coming after lunch would be a good idea.
I asked the lobby receptionist where Zoo Records is. He looked at me like I was out of my mind, so I looked for it myself. The shop, naturally, was closed. I came back at 4 p.m. Still closed.
I ended up in a small record shop with a nondescript second-floor entrance. I wasn't feeling so optimistic until I opened the door. When Doves Cry filled the place like buttery aural sunshine.
It was the day after Prince had passed away. The shop owner was blasting Prince hits from his super-impressive setup. There were about five customers in the room sifting through the records: four dad-like figures and myself. One of them bought "Purple Rain" - I salute the store for not inflating its price. I didn't buy anything but I went out feeling like the trip was worth it. It was a cool, solemn moment I shared with a bunch of Chinese strangers. You can't buy that.
That's the thing about being a stranger in a strange land. You get to bond with people over the oddest things, and then you never see them again. Like when I was walking down Argyle Street and stopped at a teashop that sold that tea with the "blooming" flower inside. I was told it'd been there forever. The lady handed her recommended tea over: "It's a beauty potion. Good for eyebags," she said. I did a real-life spit take. "It's okay, not for everyone," she laughed, and then gave me regular tea "for the road."
I sipped on it all the way to the Ladies Market, a treasure trove of familiar goods and memories of aching feet. It hasn't changed much, although I remember it being much more of a labyrinth. Behind the main street is a completely different look - where there were once stores of vintage clothing (a dress for $10), there stood an entire lane of shops that sold Stan Smiths and its hundred variations. Farther down the street are gadgets and electronics. Nothing looks familiar, save for the pavement. Wet, gray, stranger-friendly.
Other familiar things: that lone casino, the egg-waffle store that's always crowded, the flower market, the bird garden. Mongkok was a farming village, considered prosperous - now it's a market, a merging of past and present. Locals say if you want a taste of the real Hong Kong, plan your stay around Mongkok.
Cordis Hotel proved a convenient base; everything was within walking distance. I walked around with music on. I find that this helps me absorb the city better. In the same way that a perfume sears an event into memory, songs take me back to places I've wandered through. Now when I hear Wave of Mutilation, I will remember rushing back to the hotel for dinner and drinks, stinking like a sundrenched five-year-old.
Dinner at Michelin-starred Ming Court was epic. I will never, ever, say no to Chinese food. My favorite was the crab, served in a crabshell, on a silver crab plate. Crabception at its finest. Then the bartender at Alibi in Cordis served me a tito drink - something with a vodka and ginger beer, served in a sweaty copper tin mug. It was delicious. I had two.
In Hong Kong, the night is always young. After-drinks drinks were in order. I met up with a friend in Sheung Wan, at a bar that faced a sushi place, a closed massage parlor, and a stationary monk that everyone told us was a fake. Then I made a second attempt to see PMQ, which is always half-closed when I go, and it was again, as luck would have it. I cabbed it back to Mongkok and found that, at 2 a.m., it takes on its full market form. Fish, flowers, fruit, boxes upon boxes of all sorts of streets lined the road back home.
In my room I found a new very-welcome tray of goodies: three shot glasses that contained jelly beans, gummy bears and marshmallows, and three nail lacquers in Cordis Hotel's colors: orange, beige and black. I ordered room service to express my gratitude.
Mongkok, highly underrated, is the place to visit if you find yourself craving the real Hong Kong - not that any other part of it is less authentic, but Mongkok still has that old Hong Kong smell. You know that smell. Pavement, deep-fried street food, sweat. It's not unlike Manila at all, but you know it's of a different breed.
On the way back to Manila via Cathay Pacific, I enjoyed the peace and quiet of The Bridge and The Wing, havens for those who've already spent way too much to do any more shopping (or those too tired to do any more walking). After a noodle break and a generous serving of mango sticky rice, I am whisked to the plane for my return flight home, still kind of smelling like Mongkok , a welcome souvenir.
TAIWAN: Taiwan Grants Filipinos Visa-free Entry From June 2017
Filipinos will be granted visa-free entry to Taiwan starting June this year, in a move meant to encourage more tourists from other Asian regions to visit the island.
According to a Taiwanese news website, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that Philippine nationals would be granted visa-free stays on the island for a period of up to 30 days.
The ministry said that this move would be on trial basis for one year from June 1 this year to July 31, 2018, the Taiwan media outfit reported.
Taiwan also extended its 30-day visa exemption for citizens of Thailand and Brunei to one year.
Multiple-entry visa privileges meanwhile will be extended to nationals of India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.
This move by Taiwan is part of its government’s “New Southbound Policy” which aims to establish closer trade and economic ties with south and southeast Asian nations, the website said.
Taiwan saw a surge in its number of visitors since it offered citizens of these south and southeast Asian nations visa-free entry, it said.
Based on Taiwanese government data, the number of tourists from these countries climbed to 68,000, a 42.8 percent increase. This growth was the biggest in four years.
According to a Taiwanese news website, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that Philippine nationals would be granted visa-free stays on the island for a period of up to 30 days.
The ministry said that this move would be on trial basis for one year from June 1 this year to July 31, 2018, the Taiwan media outfit reported.
Taiwan also extended its 30-day visa exemption for citizens of Thailand and Brunei to one year.
Multiple-entry visa privileges meanwhile will be extended to nationals of India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.
This move by Taiwan is part of its government’s “New Southbound Policy” which aims to establish closer trade and economic ties with south and southeast Asian nations, the website said.
Taiwan saw a surge in its number of visitors since it offered citizens of these south and southeast Asian nations visa-free entry, it said.
Based on Taiwanese government data, the number of tourists from these countries climbed to 68,000, a 42.8 percent increase. This growth was the biggest in four years.
CHINA: Air China Cancells Flights To North Korean Capital, Pyongyan,
China's national airline, Air China, has cancelled some flights to the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, due to poor demand but it has not suspended all flights there, it said on Friday, denying a report by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.
CCTV had reported that all flights run by the airline between the two cities were to be suspended indefinitely.
"Air China did not stop operation of the Beijing to Pyongyang route, but temporarily cancelled some flights based on the situation of ticket sales," said a person in Air China's communications team.
Subsequent flights would be scheduled according to ticket sales, the official said.
Air China's flights, which operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, began in 2008 but have frequently been cancelled due to unspecified problems.
China is North Korea's sole major ally but it disapproves of the North's weapons programmes, and its confrontations with the United States and its Asian allies, and it has supported U.N. sanctions against it.
Following repeated missile tests that drew international criticism, China banned all imports of North Korean coal on Feb 26, cutting off the country's most important export product.
CCTV had reported that all flights run by the airline between the two cities were to be suspended indefinitely.
"Air China did not stop operation of the Beijing to Pyongyang route, but temporarily cancelled some flights based on the situation of ticket sales," said a person in Air China's communications team.
Subsequent flights would be scheduled according to ticket sales, the official said.
Air China's flights, which operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, began in 2008 but have frequently been cancelled due to unspecified problems.
China is North Korea's sole major ally but it disapproves of the North's weapons programmes, and its confrontations with the United States and its Asian allies, and it has supported U.N. sanctions against it.
Following repeated missile tests that drew international criticism, China banned all imports of North Korean coal on Feb 26, cutting off the country's most important export product.
PHILIPPINES: Discover Holy Week In The Philippines
Holy Week in the Philippines is a significant religious observance for the Roman Catholic majority and most Protestant groups.
It begins on Palm Sunday and continues on through Maundy Thursday, when businesses in the Philippines either shut down operations until Black Saturday or have a late opening and earlier closing times.
Many communities observe Spanish-influenced Catholic rituals such as processions, with many having been syncretised with pre-Hispanic beliefs. This is evident in local practices and the many superstitions associated with the occasion.
During the Easter Triduum (usually a public holiday), some local terrestrial television and most radio stations usually go off the air for three days while some of them operate regularly on such religious circumstances including radio stations owned by the Catholic Church and some Protestant denominations which air special programming and those owned by other religious groups may either choose to sign off or to air regular programming.
Those that do operate truncate broadcasting hours and feature religious programming, films, and news coverage of various rites. Cable television channels in the Philippines however continue to broadcast on regular programming service.
Palm Sunday
At Mass (liturgy) on Palm Sunday worshipers carry palm fronds to church to be blessed by the priest. Many Filipinos bring them home after the Mass and place these on door lintels or windows, in the belief that the fronds considered by the Church as sacramentals, can ward off demons and avert lightning.
In some places a procession is held towards the main church before the service, sometimes starting from an ermita/visita (chapel of ease), with the presiding priest riding on horseback. Other parishes would have the priest bless palms in a plaza fronting or near the church.
Holy Wednesday
In the provinces of Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna and Marikina City, as well as in Makati a procession of the Passion of Christ is held in the evening of Holy Wednesday. Except in Baliuag, Bulacan, the Passion tableaux are excluded from the Good Friday Procession.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday (Huwebes Santo) is the beginning of the Paschal Triduum.
The first rite of the day is the Chrism Mass, in which parishioners join their parish priest for morning Mass in the cathedral, especially in the large dioceses and archdioceses. Many priests consider this to be the day when they renew their priestly vows.
This Mass, over which presides the bishop of the diocese, is when the Chrism, oil of catechumens and the oil for the sick are blessed after the homily. Priests bring the oils to their respective parishes after the service and store these for future use.
The main observance of the day is the last Mass before Easter, the Mass of the Lord's Supper. This usually including a re-enactment of the Washing of the Feet of the Twelve Apostles, and is followed by the procession of the Blessed Sacrament before it is placed in the Altar of Repose.
One of the most important Holy Week traditions in the Philippines is the Visita Iglesia.On Holy Thursday, after services, the faithful visit several churches to pray at each of their Altar of Repose.
Good Friday
Good Friday, (Biyernes Santo) is a public holiday, commemorated with solemn street processions, the Way of the Cross, the commemoration of Jesus' Seven Last Words (”Siete Palabras”) and the Senákulo, which in some places is a week-long affair.
Mass is not celebrated during this day but the people gather at the church for the Veneration of Cross which is celebrated at three in the afternoon. Communion is also given on this day but the hosts to be distributed to the people are pre-consecrated on the Mass of the Lord's Supper.
In some communities most famously in the province of Pampanga, the processions include devotees who self-flagellate and sometimes even have themselves nailed to crosses as expressions of penance, in fulfilment of a vow, or in thanksgiving for a prayer granted.
The pabasa or marathon chanting of the Pasyon (the Filipino epic narrative of Christ's life, Passion, Death, and Resurrection), usually concludes on this day. Television and radio stations also air Siete Palabras services from different large churches in Manila, usually beginning at noon.
Santo Entierro
The usual highlight of Good Friday is the Santo Entierro ("holy interment"), which is the name of both the rite and the wooden or resin sculpture of the dead Christ lying supine used in the ritual. Comparable to the Eastern Orthodox practice of processing the epitaphios, the calandra or bier carrying the Santo Entierro is brought about town, normally followed by images of saints connected to the Passion narrative such as Peter and John the Evangelist.
Tradition dictates that the image of the Virgin Mary, dressed as the mourning Mater Dolorosa, is always the last icon in a procession of any length.
Some places accord the Santo Entierro icon traditional, even pre-Hispanic funeral rites, such as washing, laying the body in state, or seating it in a funerary chair. In Paete, Laguna the Santo Entierro is smoked over burning lansones peelings: during the procession, the calandra makes several stops along the route, and each time is placed over the burning peelings.
At each pause, a man turns towards the bier and shouts, "¡Señor! Misericordia, Señor!" ("Lord! Mercy, Lord!"), to which the congregation follows, "¡Misericordia, Señor!" ("Mercy, Lord!").
In Lipa City, the Santo Entierro procession is held silently and at midnight. The icon is interred in a chapel nearest the parish, simulating the Holy Sepulchre, and remains locked within until the Easter Vigil.
In Catbalogan City, the Santo Entierro procession is held at dusk. More than 20 bright carrozas bearing images of Christ's passion are paraded in the streets by thousands of Catholic faithful. The heavy steel calandra of the Santo Entierro, which precedes the Mater Dolorosa, is hoisted on male devotees' shoulders as a means of sacrifice. A marching band plays music as the procession moves on.
In Alimodian, Iloilo the Santo Entierro is interred at the door of the parish church to enable veneration, usually by kissing the icon's feet. There is also a large crucifix before the altar for people to venerate and kiss. At night, young girls dressed and the Mater Dolorosa, barefoot and bearing lit candles, hold a procession around the town square to meditate and mourn Christ, reenacting the burial rites Christ's female disciples gave him.
Good Friday- In Baliuag, Bulacan, the 2013 “Prusisyon ng mga Santo” was the Lenten rite wherein 102 carrozas participated compared to some 83 religious images that were paraded through the streets in the previous years. In the Lenten procession, religious fervor and piety compelled the town people of Baliuag to launch over a hundred richly adorned giant floats depicting the passion of Jesus Christ.
Held every Holy Wednesday and Good Friday, the procession starts at 6:00 pm. The grand procession of more than 80 images became an anticipated attraction on Holy Wednesday and Good Friday.
The 2013 Good Friday 102 massive carriages carrying life size dioramas depicting a scene in the life of Jesus were paraded all over town after sunset.The solemn rite on Good Friday, called the Baliuag Lenten Procession was witnessed by local and foreign tourists, including the current Apostolic Nunciature to the Philippines' Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto who was accompanied by his aide Msgr. Gabor Pinter.It is the longest Lenten procession in the Philippines.
The ritual mourning and generally somber mood attached to this day gave rise to the Tagalog idiom "Mukhâ kang Biyernes Santo." Literally translating to "You look like Good Friday," it refers to a sad person's demeanor resembling that of the suffering Christ.
Several taboos are customarily observed on this day, such as the avoidance of excessive noisemaking and–in older times–bathing (except for health reasons). The prohibitions are usually effective after 15:00 PHT, and are done to mourn Christ, who is said to have died at that hour.
Easter Sunday
Easter is marked with joyous celebrations, the first being the pre-dawn rite called Salubong in Filipino and Sugat in Cebuano and Hiligaynon (both meaning "meeting"). The pageant depicts the apocryphal reunion of Christ and his mother after the Resurrection. Statues of the Risen Christ and the Virgin Mary are borne in two separate processions that meet at a designated area called a Galilea, often in the square fronting the church.
Some locales include statues of any or all the Three Marys (Mary, mother of James, Mary Magdalene, and Mary Salome), along with Peter and John the Evangelist. The two processions are customarily sex-segregated, with male worshippers following the Resurrected Christ, twelve men dressed as the Apostles, and icons of male saints, while female congregants accompany the icons of the Virgin and female saints.
The icon of the Virgin is clothed or draped in a black veil to show her bereavement. A girl dressed as an angel stands at or is suspended in mid-air from the Galilea,which may be the window of a house or some scaffold, chants the Regina Coeli in Latin or in the vernacular before dramatically unveiling the icon to signal the end of Mary's grieving.
The veil may also be removed by other "angels" who might either simply pull it off the statue, or tie it to balloons or doves and release these into the dawn sky. The Virgin is then called the Nuestra Señora de Alegria ("Our Lady of Joy"), and the angels shower confetti and flowers on the icons.
The unveiling is marked by pealing bells and fireworks, and is followed by Easter Mass. In some parishes, this rite is held earlier at midnight of Easter Sunday immediately after Easter Vigil.
Cities and towns with famous Holy Week celebrations include:
Alimodian, Iloilo
Angono, Rizal
Antipolo
Arevalo, Iloilo City
Baguio
Baliuag, Bulacan
Bustos, Bulacan
Bantayan Island, Cebu
Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
Binangonan, Rizal
Calinog, Iloilo
Capas, Tarlac
Catbalogan City, Samar
Cavite City
Guagua, Pampanga
Jordan, Guimaras
Lambunao, Iloilo
Las Piñas
Barangay Población, Makati
Marikina City
Marinduque (see Moriones Festival)
Morong, Rizal
Minglanilla, Cebu
Meycauayan, Bulacan
Orani, Bataan
Paete, Laguna
Parañaque
Santa Maria, Bulacan
Santa Rita, Pampanga
San Mateo, Rizal
San Pablo, Laguna
Barangay Santa Ana, Taguig
Sasmuan, Pampanga
Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Baras, Rizal
Via Crucis
Pilgrims often visit life-sized tableaux depicting the Stations of the Cross erected on hillsides, praying the devotion as they trek up the simulated "Calvary". Popular sites with Stations of the Cross statues include the Grotto of Lourdes in Novaliches, Quezon City, and the hillside by Saint James' Parish Church in Iguig, Cagayan.
Alimodian, Iloilo
Thousands of pilgrims, devotees and followers from all over Western Visayas flock to Agony Hill (originally known as Igcaras Hill) in Alimodian, Iloilo for the Via Crucis during Holy Week, most especially during Good Friday. The peak provides a view of Alimodian, the Bucari Mountains, and the Iloilo Strait overlooking Guimaras island from afar. It is also a good place for relaxation.
Bala-an Bukid, Guimaras
The huge, white cross erected on a peak on Guimaras Island overlooking the Guimaras Strait and Iloilo City, is a popular destination for Visayan pilgrims.
Capilya
A town in Zamboanga and also Alimodian still practice the Capilya, where locals erect fourteen temporary altars around the población (town centre) representing the Via Crucis. A group of singers then chant the Pasyón on the night of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday as people gather around the town square and the church. After the 3 pm Mass on Good Friday, a procession follows after passing all fourteen stations while praying while reflecting the death of Christ.
Black Nazarene
The Black Nazarene icon, brought from Mexico during the Galleon Trade era, is enshrined in Quiapo Church, and is considered miraculous by devotees is brought out for procession every Good Friday. The statue is borne on the shoulders of male devotees in a slow, difficult procession around the narrow streets of the district, a score of men struggle to keep the image moving on. Thousands more try to muscle their way to touch the Nazarene as if carried by a powerful tide in an ocean of humanity.
Amulet hunting
It is a folk belief that anting-anting (traditional amulets) are especially potent if collected, made, or imbued with power on Good Friday. In Sipalay, Negros Occidental many albularyo (witch doctors) search for anting-anting in unexplored caves.
Procession of Statues
In Paete, Laguna procession of 45 statues beautifully decorated carrozas (floats) depicting the life of Christ. In Siquijor, the Good Friday procession consists of huge, centuries-old statues bedecked in fresh flowers.
On Holy Wednesday, a procession is held with Paete's 53 images of Christ's life and death. The procession goes through the town's narrow streets en route to the church. It stops three times to give way to the Salubong (meeting) which depicts three scenes of Jesus' passion and in which Paete's "moving saints" take part. These are: the meeting of Christ and Mary, held at the church patio; the wiping of Jesus' face by Veronica, which takes place at Plaza Edesan; and finally, the encounter between Mary and Veronica where the latter shows the miraculous imprints of Christ's face on her cloth. This is held at the town plaza.
Bisikleta Iglesia
A cycling tour known as the "Bisikleta Iglesia" emerged in 2010, wherein participants perform the Visita Iglesia and Stations of the Cross pilgrimages on bicycles, visiting seven churches. The 2012 edition spanned a 65 km route through Iloilo.
Senákulo
Many towns have their own versions of the Senákulo, using traditional scripts that are decades or centuries old. A version is held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, sponsored by the Department of Tourism. Popular film and televisions stars often join the cast of the play. In Taguig, they popularize the modern version of Jesus Christ Superstar reshown at the Fort Santiago Amphitheater for the benefit of Manileños. In Mexico, Pampanga and Dinalupihan, Bataan, the actor portraying Jesus has been actually nailed to the cross to simulate Christ's passion as best and as painfully possible. Similar shows are also held in Makati and in the Santa Ana District of Manila.
Pagtaltal sa Jordan
In the Visayas, the passion play Ang Pagtaltal sa Jordan is performed in Jordan, Guimaras and in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo every Good Friday. In recent years, the play's audience included locals as well as people from the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Canada, and other countries.
Moriones Festival
The Moriones Festival in the island province of Marinduque commemorates the story of the Roman centurion, Longinus and his legendary conversion at the foot of the cross. The townsfolk of Boac and Mogpog are dressed in masks and helmets (moriones), depicting Roman soldiers, and unusually for the country, observe Holy Week in a much more joyous manner.
Saboy
The Saboy is a traditional dance performed by girls on Easter Sunday in Las Piñas, Metro Manila. The dance is divided into two parts, the "mourning" section and the "joyful" version.
The first dancer is the Salubong Angel, who often has large wings and bears a black veil. Second are the Hosanna Angels dressed in white, who usually hold baskets with rose petals and comprise a majority of the dancers.
Third are the Tres Marías (English: Three Marys), three older girls dressed in pink and also bearing baskets. Last are the blue-clad Kapitana (Captainess) and Tinyentera (Female Lieutenant); the Kapitana can be distinguished by the large banner she waves, while the Tinyentera swings a thurible.
Salubung in Palawan
In Puerto Princesa, Palawan, the Salubong is done at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm by torch-bearing convicts, queued and in uniform for the ritual.
Sayaw ng Pagbatì
The Salubong is also held in Parañaque City, but with the Mass followed by different renditions of the Sayaw ng Pagbatì ("Dance at the Greeting").
The dance has been performed on occasions other than Easter: On May 11, 2010, during the founding anniversary of the Cathedral Parish of St. Andrew, in 2011 to accompany Our Lady of Good Success during the annual Intramuros Grand Marian Procession in the City of Manila, during the 1st Sunduan Festival in 2014 and in 2015 during the arrival ceremonies of the Papal Visit at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and the opening ceremonies of Palarong Panrehiyon 2015 in Aseana City grounds, Parañaque.
Vigília ng Muling Pagkabuhay
Black Saturday in Angono, Rizal is highlighted by a three-hour presentation at the church steps. On Easter Sunday, the customary Salubong is performed but with the girl, dressed as an angel, descending from a giant paper flower (often described as a banana flower) to unveil the statue of the Virgin Mary.
The petals are mechanically opened by large paper birds to reveal the angel inside, and as is done in Las Piñas, two young ladies also called the Kapitana and Tenyenta perform a dance called "Bati". Unlike Las Piñas, they both carry a banner during the much awaited performance, that takes weeks of practice and preparation to achieve.
Baguio City
Thousands of lowlanders, Manileños, and foreign tourists flock to this summer capital to escape heat. Hotels and lodging houses are all booked a month before the Holy Week. Others trek to the mountain to view the city of pines and people enjoying the merry making not minding the religious people are in church for this Holy occasion. For the latter, services are offered by Christian churches and the churches of the Catholic Diocese of Baguio during the week.
San Pablo City
Celebrities and movie stars from Manila and neighboring provinces join the procession organized by Don Ado Escudero of Villa Escudero.
Tondo, Manila
Caridad or Pakaridad is a way of giving or sharing food (especially ginataan or suman) to the neighbors or to the local church or chapel to be given to the crowds of people who attend the Good Friday procession. A complimentary drink of water is also given by local residents living along the processional route.
It begins on Palm Sunday and continues on through Maundy Thursday, when businesses in the Philippines either shut down operations until Black Saturday or have a late opening and earlier closing times.
Many communities observe Spanish-influenced Catholic rituals such as processions, with many having been syncretised with pre-Hispanic beliefs. This is evident in local practices and the many superstitions associated with the occasion.
During the Easter Triduum (usually a public holiday), some local terrestrial television and most radio stations usually go off the air for three days while some of them operate regularly on such religious circumstances including radio stations owned by the Catholic Church and some Protestant denominations which air special programming and those owned by other religious groups may either choose to sign off or to air regular programming.
Those that do operate truncate broadcasting hours and feature religious programming, films, and news coverage of various rites. Cable television channels in the Philippines however continue to broadcast on regular programming service.
Palm Sunday
At Mass (liturgy) on Palm Sunday worshipers carry palm fronds to church to be blessed by the priest. Many Filipinos bring them home after the Mass and place these on door lintels or windows, in the belief that the fronds considered by the Church as sacramentals, can ward off demons and avert lightning.
In some places a procession is held towards the main church before the service, sometimes starting from an ermita/visita (chapel of ease), with the presiding priest riding on horseback. Other parishes would have the priest bless palms in a plaza fronting or near the church.
Holy Wednesday
In the provinces of Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna and Marikina City, as well as in Makati a procession of the Passion of Christ is held in the evening of Holy Wednesday. Except in Baliuag, Bulacan, the Passion tableaux are excluded from the Good Friday Procession.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday (Huwebes Santo) is the beginning of the Paschal Triduum.
The first rite of the day is the Chrism Mass, in which parishioners join their parish priest for morning Mass in the cathedral, especially in the large dioceses and archdioceses. Many priests consider this to be the day when they renew their priestly vows.
This Mass, over which presides the bishop of the diocese, is when the Chrism, oil of catechumens and the oil for the sick are blessed after the homily. Priests bring the oils to their respective parishes after the service and store these for future use.
The main observance of the day is the last Mass before Easter, the Mass of the Lord's Supper. This usually including a re-enactment of the Washing of the Feet of the Twelve Apostles, and is followed by the procession of the Blessed Sacrament before it is placed in the Altar of Repose.
One of the most important Holy Week traditions in the Philippines is the Visita Iglesia.On Holy Thursday, after services, the faithful visit several churches to pray at each of their Altar of Repose.
Good Friday
Good Friday, (Biyernes Santo) is a public holiday, commemorated with solemn street processions, the Way of the Cross, the commemoration of Jesus' Seven Last Words (”Siete Palabras”) and the Senákulo, which in some places is a week-long affair.
Mass is not celebrated during this day but the people gather at the church for the Veneration of Cross which is celebrated at three in the afternoon. Communion is also given on this day but the hosts to be distributed to the people are pre-consecrated on the Mass of the Lord's Supper.
In some communities most famously in the province of Pampanga, the processions include devotees who self-flagellate and sometimes even have themselves nailed to crosses as expressions of penance, in fulfilment of a vow, or in thanksgiving for a prayer granted.
The pabasa or marathon chanting of the Pasyon (the Filipino epic narrative of Christ's life, Passion, Death, and Resurrection), usually concludes on this day. Television and radio stations also air Siete Palabras services from different large churches in Manila, usually beginning at noon.
Santo Entierro
The usual highlight of Good Friday is the Santo Entierro ("holy interment"), which is the name of both the rite and the wooden or resin sculpture of the dead Christ lying supine used in the ritual. Comparable to the Eastern Orthodox practice of processing the epitaphios, the calandra or bier carrying the Santo Entierro is brought about town, normally followed by images of saints connected to the Passion narrative such as Peter and John the Evangelist.
Tradition dictates that the image of the Virgin Mary, dressed as the mourning Mater Dolorosa, is always the last icon in a procession of any length.
Some places accord the Santo Entierro icon traditional, even pre-Hispanic funeral rites, such as washing, laying the body in state, or seating it in a funerary chair. In Paete, Laguna the Santo Entierro is smoked over burning lansones peelings: during the procession, the calandra makes several stops along the route, and each time is placed over the burning peelings.
At each pause, a man turns towards the bier and shouts, "¡Señor! Misericordia, Señor!" ("Lord! Mercy, Lord!"), to which the congregation follows, "¡Misericordia, Señor!" ("Mercy, Lord!").
In Lipa City, the Santo Entierro procession is held silently and at midnight. The icon is interred in a chapel nearest the parish, simulating the Holy Sepulchre, and remains locked within until the Easter Vigil.
In Catbalogan City, the Santo Entierro procession is held at dusk. More than 20 bright carrozas bearing images of Christ's passion are paraded in the streets by thousands of Catholic faithful. The heavy steel calandra of the Santo Entierro, which precedes the Mater Dolorosa, is hoisted on male devotees' shoulders as a means of sacrifice. A marching band plays music as the procession moves on.
In Alimodian, Iloilo the Santo Entierro is interred at the door of the parish church to enable veneration, usually by kissing the icon's feet. There is also a large crucifix before the altar for people to venerate and kiss. At night, young girls dressed and the Mater Dolorosa, barefoot and bearing lit candles, hold a procession around the town square to meditate and mourn Christ, reenacting the burial rites Christ's female disciples gave him.
Good Friday- In Baliuag, Bulacan, the 2013 “Prusisyon ng mga Santo” was the Lenten rite wherein 102 carrozas participated compared to some 83 religious images that were paraded through the streets in the previous years. In the Lenten procession, religious fervor and piety compelled the town people of Baliuag to launch over a hundred richly adorned giant floats depicting the passion of Jesus Christ.
Held every Holy Wednesday and Good Friday, the procession starts at 6:00 pm. The grand procession of more than 80 images became an anticipated attraction on Holy Wednesday and Good Friday.
The 2013 Good Friday 102 massive carriages carrying life size dioramas depicting a scene in the life of Jesus were paraded all over town after sunset.The solemn rite on Good Friday, called the Baliuag Lenten Procession was witnessed by local and foreign tourists, including the current Apostolic Nunciature to the Philippines' Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto who was accompanied by his aide Msgr. Gabor Pinter.It is the longest Lenten procession in the Philippines.
The ritual mourning and generally somber mood attached to this day gave rise to the Tagalog idiom "Mukhâ kang Biyernes Santo." Literally translating to "You look like Good Friday," it refers to a sad person's demeanor resembling that of the suffering Christ.
Several taboos are customarily observed on this day, such as the avoidance of excessive noisemaking and–in older times–bathing (except for health reasons). The prohibitions are usually effective after 15:00 PHT, and are done to mourn Christ, who is said to have died at that hour.
Easter Sunday
Easter is marked with joyous celebrations, the first being the pre-dawn rite called Salubong in Filipino and Sugat in Cebuano and Hiligaynon (both meaning "meeting"). The pageant depicts the apocryphal reunion of Christ and his mother after the Resurrection. Statues of the Risen Christ and the Virgin Mary are borne in two separate processions that meet at a designated area called a Galilea, often in the square fronting the church.
Some locales include statues of any or all the Three Marys (Mary, mother of James, Mary Magdalene, and Mary Salome), along with Peter and John the Evangelist. The two processions are customarily sex-segregated, with male worshippers following the Resurrected Christ, twelve men dressed as the Apostles, and icons of male saints, while female congregants accompany the icons of the Virgin and female saints.
The icon of the Virgin is clothed or draped in a black veil to show her bereavement. A girl dressed as an angel stands at or is suspended in mid-air from the Galilea,which may be the window of a house or some scaffold, chants the Regina Coeli in Latin or in the vernacular before dramatically unveiling the icon to signal the end of Mary's grieving.
The veil may also be removed by other "angels" who might either simply pull it off the statue, or tie it to balloons or doves and release these into the dawn sky. The Virgin is then called the Nuestra Señora de Alegria ("Our Lady of Joy"), and the angels shower confetti and flowers on the icons.
The unveiling is marked by pealing bells and fireworks, and is followed by Easter Mass. In some parishes, this rite is held earlier at midnight of Easter Sunday immediately after Easter Vigil.
Cities and towns with famous Holy Week celebrations include:
Alimodian, Iloilo
Angono, Rizal
Antipolo
Arevalo, Iloilo City
Baguio
Baliuag, Bulacan
Bustos, Bulacan
Bantayan Island, Cebu
Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
Binangonan, Rizal
Calinog, Iloilo
Capas, Tarlac
Catbalogan City, Samar
Cavite City
Guagua, Pampanga
Jordan, Guimaras
Lambunao, Iloilo
Las Piñas
Barangay Población, Makati
Marikina City
Marinduque (see Moriones Festival)
Morong, Rizal
Minglanilla, Cebu
Meycauayan, Bulacan
Orani, Bataan
Paete, Laguna
Parañaque
Santa Maria, Bulacan
Santa Rita, Pampanga
San Mateo, Rizal
San Pablo, Laguna
Barangay Santa Ana, Taguig
Sasmuan, Pampanga
Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Baras, Rizal
Via Crucis
Pilgrims often visit life-sized tableaux depicting the Stations of the Cross erected on hillsides, praying the devotion as they trek up the simulated "Calvary". Popular sites with Stations of the Cross statues include the Grotto of Lourdes in Novaliches, Quezon City, and the hillside by Saint James' Parish Church in Iguig, Cagayan.
Alimodian, Iloilo
Thousands of pilgrims, devotees and followers from all over Western Visayas flock to Agony Hill (originally known as Igcaras Hill) in Alimodian, Iloilo for the Via Crucis during Holy Week, most especially during Good Friday. The peak provides a view of Alimodian, the Bucari Mountains, and the Iloilo Strait overlooking Guimaras island from afar. It is also a good place for relaxation.
Bala-an Bukid, Guimaras
The huge, white cross erected on a peak on Guimaras Island overlooking the Guimaras Strait and Iloilo City, is a popular destination for Visayan pilgrims.
Capilya
A town in Zamboanga and also Alimodian still practice the Capilya, where locals erect fourteen temporary altars around the población (town centre) representing the Via Crucis. A group of singers then chant the Pasyón on the night of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday as people gather around the town square and the church. After the 3 pm Mass on Good Friday, a procession follows after passing all fourteen stations while praying while reflecting the death of Christ.
Black Nazarene
The Black Nazarene icon, brought from Mexico during the Galleon Trade era, is enshrined in Quiapo Church, and is considered miraculous by devotees is brought out for procession every Good Friday. The statue is borne on the shoulders of male devotees in a slow, difficult procession around the narrow streets of the district, a score of men struggle to keep the image moving on. Thousands more try to muscle their way to touch the Nazarene as if carried by a powerful tide in an ocean of humanity.
Amulet hunting
It is a folk belief that anting-anting (traditional amulets) are especially potent if collected, made, or imbued with power on Good Friday. In Sipalay, Negros Occidental many albularyo (witch doctors) search for anting-anting in unexplored caves.
Procession of Statues
In Paete, Laguna procession of 45 statues beautifully decorated carrozas (floats) depicting the life of Christ. In Siquijor, the Good Friday procession consists of huge, centuries-old statues bedecked in fresh flowers.
On Holy Wednesday, a procession is held with Paete's 53 images of Christ's life and death. The procession goes through the town's narrow streets en route to the church. It stops three times to give way to the Salubong (meeting) which depicts three scenes of Jesus' passion and in which Paete's "moving saints" take part. These are: the meeting of Christ and Mary, held at the church patio; the wiping of Jesus' face by Veronica, which takes place at Plaza Edesan; and finally, the encounter between Mary and Veronica where the latter shows the miraculous imprints of Christ's face on her cloth. This is held at the town plaza.
Bisikleta Iglesia
A cycling tour known as the "Bisikleta Iglesia" emerged in 2010, wherein participants perform the Visita Iglesia and Stations of the Cross pilgrimages on bicycles, visiting seven churches. The 2012 edition spanned a 65 km route through Iloilo.
Senákulo
Many towns have their own versions of the Senákulo, using traditional scripts that are decades or centuries old. A version is held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, sponsored by the Department of Tourism. Popular film and televisions stars often join the cast of the play. In Taguig, they popularize the modern version of Jesus Christ Superstar reshown at the Fort Santiago Amphitheater for the benefit of Manileños. In Mexico, Pampanga and Dinalupihan, Bataan, the actor portraying Jesus has been actually nailed to the cross to simulate Christ's passion as best and as painfully possible. Similar shows are also held in Makati and in the Santa Ana District of Manila.
Pagtaltal sa Jordan
In the Visayas, the passion play Ang Pagtaltal sa Jordan is performed in Jordan, Guimaras and in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo every Good Friday. In recent years, the play's audience included locals as well as people from the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Canada, and other countries.
Moriones Festival
The Moriones Festival in the island province of Marinduque commemorates the story of the Roman centurion, Longinus and his legendary conversion at the foot of the cross. The townsfolk of Boac and Mogpog are dressed in masks and helmets (moriones), depicting Roman soldiers, and unusually for the country, observe Holy Week in a much more joyous manner.
Saboy
The Saboy is a traditional dance performed by girls on Easter Sunday in Las Piñas, Metro Manila. The dance is divided into two parts, the "mourning" section and the "joyful" version.
The first dancer is the Salubong Angel, who often has large wings and bears a black veil. Second are the Hosanna Angels dressed in white, who usually hold baskets with rose petals and comprise a majority of the dancers.
Third are the Tres Marías (English: Three Marys), three older girls dressed in pink and also bearing baskets. Last are the blue-clad Kapitana (Captainess) and Tinyentera (Female Lieutenant); the Kapitana can be distinguished by the large banner she waves, while the Tinyentera swings a thurible.
Salubung in Palawan
In Puerto Princesa, Palawan, the Salubong is done at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm by torch-bearing convicts, queued and in uniform for the ritual.
Sayaw ng Pagbatì
The Salubong is also held in Parañaque City, but with the Mass followed by different renditions of the Sayaw ng Pagbatì ("Dance at the Greeting").
The dance has been performed on occasions other than Easter: On May 11, 2010, during the founding anniversary of the Cathedral Parish of St. Andrew, in 2011 to accompany Our Lady of Good Success during the annual Intramuros Grand Marian Procession in the City of Manila, during the 1st Sunduan Festival in 2014 and in 2015 during the arrival ceremonies of the Papal Visit at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and the opening ceremonies of Palarong Panrehiyon 2015 in Aseana City grounds, Parañaque.
Vigília ng Muling Pagkabuhay
Black Saturday in Angono, Rizal is highlighted by a three-hour presentation at the church steps. On Easter Sunday, the customary Salubong is performed but with the girl, dressed as an angel, descending from a giant paper flower (often described as a banana flower) to unveil the statue of the Virgin Mary.
The petals are mechanically opened by large paper birds to reveal the angel inside, and as is done in Las Piñas, two young ladies also called the Kapitana and Tenyenta perform a dance called "Bati". Unlike Las Piñas, they both carry a banner during the much awaited performance, that takes weeks of practice and preparation to achieve.
Baguio City
Thousands of lowlanders, Manileños, and foreign tourists flock to this summer capital to escape heat. Hotels and lodging houses are all booked a month before the Holy Week. Others trek to the mountain to view the city of pines and people enjoying the merry making not minding the religious people are in church for this Holy occasion. For the latter, services are offered by Christian churches and the churches of the Catholic Diocese of Baguio during the week.
San Pablo City
Celebrities and movie stars from Manila and neighboring provinces join the procession organized by Don Ado Escudero of Villa Escudero.
Tondo, Manila
Caridad or Pakaridad is a way of giving or sharing food (especially ginataan or suman) to the neighbors or to the local church or chapel to be given to the crowds of people who attend the Good Friday procession. A complimentary drink of water is also given by local residents living along the processional route.
UGANDA: Entebbe International Airport 17% Complete, Cargo Trafic Increases, National Airline Just A wish
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has said it has completed 17 per cent of the ongoing expansion works at Entebbe International Airport, a year after the project was commissioned. The completed works are part of the 20-year National Civil Aviation Master plan to revamp the airport and give it a modern look.
The airport was officially opened in 1951 and government targets to, among others, expand its departure and arrival terminals. Dr David Mpango, the CAA acting managing director, while addressing journalists after the tour of the ongoing works, said the authority has so far spent Shs90b of the Shs721b loan the government acquired from China.
“There has been an overall 17.4 per cent progress on the major cargo centre works with drainage works for the facility at 70 per cent complete, the connecting airside service road is 80per cent complete while the landside access road to the new cargo centre is 70 per cent complete,” he said.
Dr Mpango observed that ongoing projects at the airport include construction of a new cargo centre.
He said: “Cargo traffic at the airport has increased from 6,600 metric tonnes in 1991 to 59,000 at the turn of last year, with projections of estimated growth at 6.5 per year for the next 17 years thus requiring a new 100,000 tonnes capacity cargo centre to accommodate the growth.”
Other works currently being undertaken include modification and expansion of the terminal building. CAA said it hopes to have 930 arriving passengers and 820 departing passengers from the current 410 arriving and 320 departing passengers during peak hours.
Dr Mpango said expansion of the long term car park is under phase two of the expansion involving creation of additional capacity to park 360 cars up from 100 cars and is to be completed in May.
There is also improvement of air navigation services and automation at the airport as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of South Korea under an extended grant worth $ 9.5m.
Some of the recently completed works at the airport include automation of the aeronautical information management system and modification of the VVIP terminal. A total of 42 police housing units have been completed to relocate the Aviation police from the cargo centre site.
On procuring of a national airline, Dr Mpango said although government pronounced its self on the need to restore Uganda airlines, the project would face a delay.
“Arrangements are in advanced stages to flag off the airlines and we hoped that by August, the plane will be in the air but because of logistics, we postponed it to December,” he said.
The airport was officially opened in 1951 and government targets to, among others, expand its departure and arrival terminals. Dr David Mpango, the CAA acting managing director, while addressing journalists after the tour of the ongoing works, said the authority has so far spent Shs90b of the Shs721b loan the government acquired from China.
“There has been an overall 17.4 per cent progress on the major cargo centre works with drainage works for the facility at 70 per cent complete, the connecting airside service road is 80per cent complete while the landside access road to the new cargo centre is 70 per cent complete,” he said.
Dr Mpango observed that ongoing projects at the airport include construction of a new cargo centre.
He said: “Cargo traffic at the airport has increased from 6,600 metric tonnes in 1991 to 59,000 at the turn of last year, with projections of estimated growth at 6.5 per year for the next 17 years thus requiring a new 100,000 tonnes capacity cargo centre to accommodate the growth.”
Other works currently being undertaken include modification and expansion of the terminal building. CAA said it hopes to have 930 arriving passengers and 820 departing passengers from the current 410 arriving and 320 departing passengers during peak hours.
Dr Mpango said expansion of the long term car park is under phase two of the expansion involving creation of additional capacity to park 360 cars up from 100 cars and is to be completed in May.
There is also improvement of air navigation services and automation at the airport as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of South Korea under an extended grant worth $ 9.5m.
Some of the recently completed works at the airport include automation of the aeronautical information management system and modification of the VVIP terminal. A total of 42 police housing units have been completed to relocate the Aviation police from the cargo centre site.
On procuring of a national airline, Dr Mpango said although government pronounced its self on the need to restore Uganda airlines, the project would face a delay.
“Arrangements are in advanced stages to flag off the airlines and we hoped that by August, the plane will be in the air but because of logistics, we postponed it to December,” he said.
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