ASEAN Tourism Fair showcases RP handicrafts, folk dances

By Lily O. Ramos

MANILA, July 4 (PNA)--Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano announced Friday that the Philippines will be sending members of the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild and a piña and jusi embroidery artist from Lumban, Laguna to the ASEAN Travel Fair in the Japanese city of Niigata from August 26-31.

The annual travel fair showcases the ASEAN’s unique and rich culture and traditions to the Japanese public and is jointly held by the ASEAN Promotion Centre on Trade, Investment and Tourism (ASEAN-Japan Centre).

“The ASEAN Travel Fair 2009 is a great vehicle to foster Philippines-Japan diplomatic and business relations, especially in the field of tourism activities. This would bring a deeper understanding between the two cultures,” Durano said.

The Philippine delegation will be setting up a travel information and demonstration booth in the Isetan Department Store where authentic hand-crafted items would be displayed.

Menarda Llames, a native embroidery artist from Lumban, the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines -– would be demonstrating how to make giveaway items such as coasters and glass covers to the audience.

The demonstrations would be interactive, as the public would be encouraged to ask, learn and participate in the handicraft demonstrations.

Likewise, the delegation will host a Philippine night featuring the best of the country’s destinations, culture, and activities as part of the ASEAN Tourism Seminar, according to Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque Jr.

"Other ASEAN countries participating in the Fair are Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. The country's participation in this important fair signals our strong ties with our neighbouring nations in promoting tourism to and within Asia," Jarque said.

Dancers from the acclaimed Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild would also be showcasing traditional Filipino folk dances when they perform in the ASEAN Night on August 31.

DOT Marketing Head for Team for Japan, director Benito Bengzon Jr. said, "Their colorful rendition would give a snapshot of the diversity of Filipino dances, a treat to the Japanese audience."

Brochures and other informational materials on travel options would be distributed for the duration of the fair.

"The country, being cited recently as among the Top 5 Dive Destinations in Asia, would surely entice Japanese tourists to spend their vacation in the Philippines,” Bengzon added. (PNA)