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| (Image Source: Journal Online/Tourism Promotions Board Philippines) |
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in partnership with Live Nation, recently hosted internationally acclaimed band LANY in the country, marking a pivotal step in positioning the Philippines as a premier destination for world-class entertainment. The sold-out concert captivated fans from across the country and showcased Manila and Cebu’s potential as top-tier venues for international events. This collaboration directly supports TPB’s mission to boost domestic tourism by leveraging large-scale entertainment experiences.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Nograles emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “When Live Nation proposed a destination music festival, it felt like a natural step for us. It aligns with our goal to promote the Philippines as a global hub for entertainment.” She noted that LANY’s strong fanbase and their track record of sold-out shows made Cebu – one of the major hubs in the Philippines – an ideal venue for this landmark collaboration. Prior to their three-night run in Cebu, the band also performed at the iconic Philippine Arena in Bulacan as part of their A Beautiful Blur world tour. She explained, “International concerts do more than entertain; they serve as powerful platforms to promote local destinations. These events bring in visitors, boost tourism-related businesses, and create economic ripple effects that benefit the local community.”
Fans from across the Philippines and neighboring countries flocked to Cebu for the concert, driving hotel occupancy, food and beverage sales, and overall economic activity. This approach, Nograles noted, is part of TPB’s strategic vision to promote the country not only for its stunning beaches and natural wonders but also as a vibrant entertainment hub. She shared, “When aligned with our ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign, events like these showcase our world-class venues, rich culture, and warm hospitality. It’s not just about the music; it’s about the entire experience — from the local cuisine to the breathtaking tourist attractions visitors explore during their stay.” LANY embraced this experience fully, taking time to explore Cebu’s famous cultural landmarks. Their adventures underscored the island’s diversity and richness, enhancing its reputation as a destination for both tourism and entertainment. The partnership between the TPB and Live Nation marks the beginning of a larger initiative aimed at revitalizing the Philippine tourism landscape. Under the guidance of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and as part of the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s 7-point agenda, TPB is committed to promoting all regions of the country equally. “With 7,641 islands, there’s an abundance of beautiful locations waiting to be discovered by tourists and global artists alike,” said Nograles.
While Manila and Cebu serve as the initial launchpad, plans are already underway to bring more international acts to various regions of the Philippines. Upcoming concerts are expected to integrate other tourism initiatives, such as food festivals and eco-tourism experiences, ensuring that visitors enjoy a holistic travel experience. The overwhelming success of LANY’s concert demonstrates the strong potential of international music events to elevate a city’s tourism appeal. Nograles concluded, “Concerts like these are not just about the performance; they’re about creating lasting memories for visitors who experience the Philippines in a new light. We are committed to bringing more world-class artists to our shores, ensuring that every visitor leaves with even more reasons to ‘Love The Philippines'."
