ROXAS City – Foreign guests of the 18th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) recently experienced indigenous living through “The Balaybalay: Life in the Farm Experience Program” at the ecological park and cultural village in Barangay Nagba, Cuartero, Capiz.
“We are doing this annual event which we call the Philippine Travel Exchange since 2004 and we are inviting the international buyers or the international hoteliers, tour operators to come and visit the Philippines and do business meeting with Philippine sellers,” Tourism Promotions Board market specialist Michael Malonda said.
The guests from countries like United States, Denmark, Poland, Taiwan, and Malaysia were introduced to the real-life replica of indigenous houses aside from the actual experience on traditional bait fishing, massage or “hilot” and cooking of a local chicken soup “binakol.”
“This year, we are more in promoting the emerging destinations like Capiz and what it has to offer for its visitors,” said Malonda, adding that the participants visited the Biggest Bell in Asia at the Sta. Monica Church in Pan-ay, Capiz and a river cruise at the Palina Greenbelt EcoPark in Barangay Cagay here.
They also witnessed the Binanog Dance, an indigenous courtship dance imitating the movements of a hawk called “banog,” which was performed by the Panay Bukidnon from Tapaz, Capiz.
“Very interesting experience, food are delicious and prepared differently and people are very friendly,” said Poland national and tour operator Adam Janic, adding he will visit the country possibly next year with some of his friends and family.(With a report from PIA Capiz/PN)
