By Lynda B. Valencia
MANILA, Aug. 19 — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Fair, which will be held in Niigata, Japan, will feature traditional Philippine handicrafts and folk dances.
Tourism Secretary Joseph 'Ace' Durano said the country would be sending two members of the Bayanihan Dance Company and a piña and jusi embroidery artist from Lumban, Laguna.
The ASEAN fair will be held from Aug. 26-31, 2009.
The annual travel fair, which is held by the ASEAN Promotion Centre on Trade, Investment and Tourism (ASEAN-Japan Centre), showcases the ASEAN’s unique and rich culture and traditions to the Japanese public.
“The ASEAN Travel Fair 2009 is a great vehicle to foster Philippine-Japan diplomatic and business relations, especially in the field of tourism activities. This would bring a deeper understanding between the two cultures,” Durano added.
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.
Also, the demonstrations would be interactive, as the public would be encouraged to ask, learn and participate in the handicraft demonstrations.
At the same time, the delegation would 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 neighboring nations in promoting tourism to and within Asia," Jarque said.
Dancers from the acclaimed Bayanihan Dance Company would also be showcasing traditional Filipino folk dances, as they will perform in the ASEAN Night on Aug. 31.
Director Benito Bengzon, Jr., Marketing Head for Team Japan said, "Their colorful renditions 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 Five Dive Destinations in Asia, would surely entice Japanese tourists to spend their vacation in the Philippines,” Bengzon added.(PNA) LDV/LBV
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