The first `Explore Islands Philippines 2018′, scheduled for May 9-12, 2018 was launched at a grand gala celebration in New York. The much anticipated four-day event will take place at Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall East, in New York City, and, will focus on bringing the best of the Philippines to the world stage. From the beauty of the 7,107 islands of the Philippines to it’s dynamic, growing economy, this event will showcase Philippines rich cultural heritage as a cornerstone of its development. With a trade-show format as it’s nucleus, `Explore Islands Philippines 2018′ will also highlight and offer opportunities for tourism and investments which brings with it, power and growth.
THE PREVIEW
The launch celebration and press conference, held at the Philippines Center on Fifth Avenue in New York City, featured a taste of Philippines culture by way of dance performances, backed by traditional instruments from the region, Special guests and media representatives were also entertained by singer Angel Lowe who got the crowd on their feet for a disco moment. She was later joined by singer Bryant Magsayo who accompanied on the piano for a lustrious duet of `After All.’ Later, Sheena and JJ thrilled the audience with a sizzling dance to `All that Jazz.’ Guests were also treated to a wide variety of traditional Philippines hors-d’oeuvres.
THE WELCOME
The evening’s on-stage host was the lovely Karen Medrano who introduced Edwin R.Josue of JS Productions, Producers of the event. In welcoming guests, Edwin said that with 300,000 Filipino Americans living in the US, they make up the second largest ethnic community in the USA. “We believe this conference will be the perfect cultural handshake between the USA and the Philippines.” Edwin continued: “The Philippines is loaded with attractions like great shopping, good food, little exploratory communities and the warm hospitable people. As Conde’ Nast publications touted `the Philippines is one of the most exciting places to visit’…but I warn you; you wouldn’t want to leave the Philippines. Come and experience our beautiful country. Again, welcome and thank you for your help in making the Philippines the beauty that it is.”
THE CONNECTION
Hank Hendrickson, Director of the US Philippines Society expressed; “We try to look at the history of the US and the Philippines – a history of over 100 years. We found there is a thirst for what is going on in the Philippines, like investments, architecture, Trans-National issues like terrorist threats. It’s really a good time to follow up. It’s a complex multi-faceted connection, with – business, tax reform legislation and, opportunities for investments both ways. Look beyond China, let’s raise the bar and commit to giving back to the Philippines.”
THE INSPIRATIONLater during a Q&A with the media, Edwin emphasized that most of the Philippines-Americans operate on a very high level. “So we saw Japan Week in New York, and, they were so united and proud of their accomplishments. Japan is so small in comparison to the Philippines, that impressed me to do this. We are the second largest and fastest growing economy in the world. It’s not easy, we’ve been planning this since 2014….so I know we can do this.”
THE EVENT
Susan Del Mundo, Philippines Attache’ in New York took to the podium and greeted guests, adding: “We have a tourism master plan, we control tourism development. The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,100 islands. We believe we can offer more. We highlight eco-tourism, we engage the community and small business entrepreneurs in the country. This event will feature shows, workshops, cultural cuisine. We are the only Asian country that has Spanish influences. This festival is a collaborative effort that will give you the best of the best.”
THE CELEBRATION
Explore Islands Philippines 2018 will be a grand celebration of positive energy and a smorgasbord of talent. The event will culminate with a grand Block party on 42nd Street, outside the venue. The Philippines, known as the tax capital of the world will be celebrated as a special place of great morals and family values. “We are promoting friends by human nature,” remarked one participating official.
