PH Consulate General, PH Department of Tourism - New York Unveil 2024 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour
PH Consul General Senen T. Mangalile welcomes close to 100 guests to the launch of the 2024 iteration of the Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour. The Philippine Consulate General in New York is the lead coordinator of this year’s tour. (Photo by Nikka Arenal, New York PCG)
NEW YORK 26 January 2024— The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Philippine Department of Tourism’s New York Office, formally launched the 2024 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour on 23 January 2024 at the Kalayaan Hall, Philippine Center in New York.
The event was attended by around 100 guests, including airline representatives, travel agencies, members of the Filipino-American press, and individuals from various organizations of the Filipino community.
The upcoming VIP tour is scheduled to take place on 21 to 30 July 2024 and promises an immersive exploration of the fascinating destinations of Manila, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Bukidnon.
Consul General Senen T. Mangalile’s welcome remarks set a resounding tone for the evening, stressing the essential role of Filipino-Americans as cultural ambassadors. He stated, “I encourage you to view the VIP Tour as a homecoming—a chance to learn or rediscover the Philippines. This year’s VIP Tour is particularly noteworthy, as it will be the first time the itinerary has been expanded to include destinations in Mindanao and opportunities to interact with the local community.”
In a recorded message played during the launch, Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez invited the Filipino community to join the tour and emphasized,
“The VIP Tour is a unique and immersive experience, allowing each one of you to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines.”
The Tourism Attaché Francisco Hilario M. Lardizabal presented the “Love the Philippines” campaign and gave an outline of the VIP Tour destinations. The President of Rajah Tours Philippines, Mr. Jose C. Clemente III, on the other hand, delved into a more specific details of the tour, and offered some insights into the itinerary, rates, and process of registration. A previous VIP tour participant, Ms. Jocelyn Aligarbes, shared her experiences that define the VIP Tour.
The event launch ended with a Q&A session, which served as an opportunity for the attendees to ask questions and to gain more information about the upcoming 2024 VIP Tour.
The VIP Tour, also formerly known as the Ambassador, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour, has evolved into a flagship tourism initiative in the 2000s. The Philippine Consulate General in New York takes the lead in coordinating this year’s VIP Tour.
The VIP Tour itinerary and other important details are accessible on the VIP Tour website at www.viptourphilippines2023.com. END
Tourism Attaché Francisco Hilario M. Lardizabal showcases the “Love the Philippines” campaign and 2024 VIP Tour destinations. (Photo by Ruth Gaza, New York PCG)
The President of Rajah Tours Philippines, Mr. Jose C. Clemente III presented the 2024 VIP Tour itinerary and package rates. (Photo by Ruth Gaza, New York PCG)
For more information, visit https://www.newyorkpcg.dfa.gov.ph.