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 Dear
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2006 Delegates,It is with profound pleasure that I welcome all the participants of the ASEAN TOURISM FORUM (ATF) which will be held in exotic Davao City, Philippines from 13 to 21 January 2006. I also wish to convey my warmest felicitations to the organisers from both the government and our private sector partners, as well as the people of Davao City for their untiring effort in making this event a reality. It is in this remarkable display of cooperation and unity that we see a resurgence of a sense of community and mutual responsibility that ensure success in every undertaking. I take this opportunity to express gratitude to the government of Myanmar for graciously turning over to the Philippines the hosting of ATF 2006, thereby ensuring the perpetuation of the ideals and goals which ATF stands for. As Myanmar aptly put it, it is about “strengthening partnerships towards peace, prosperity and progress” among its 10 member-countries. Today, we proudly come together as one solid community working towards a common goal of a strong and productive ASEAN. As we go about our prospective businesses at the ATF, we are confident that ASEAN’s rich showcase of diverse cultures sewn by its collective commonalities – rich heritage, exotic natural endowments amid sophisticated destinations and fascinating people will be appreciated by our international buyers from major travel markets as premium product offerings that ensure high marketability. As we “celebrate the many faces of ASEAN” in Davao City, it is my earnest hope that everyone accelerates business opportunities in this year’s gathering, and in the process, experience how the Philippines and the whole of ASEAN have evolved and developed over the years in terms of tourism destinations, travel facilities and services for the global community to enjoy. Mabuhay! JOSEPH H. DURANO Secretary, Philippine Department of Tourism Chairman, ATF 2006 - Philippines Host Committee  MADAYAW!We invite you to come and discover Davao, a melting pot of diverse migrant and indigenous peoples whose cultures are woven into a rich tapestry of ethnic and contemporary lifestyles manifested in art, literature, cuisine, music and festivities. Davao is the Philippines’ “City in Bloom”, blessed with a bounty of natural gifts ranging from fertile fruit plantations, lush orchid farms, majestic mountain ranges, pristine white sand beaches to a bustling urban centre where modern conveniences are within reach. In fact, three of the country’s most treasured natural gems are found in Davao, making it a must-see destination. The city has the best access to the country’s highest peak, Mount Apo which is the original habitat of our national bird and second largest eagle in the world, the Philippine Eagle, and national flower, the Waling-waling orchid. Moreover, our city takes pride in being recognised as one of the cleanest and greenest in the country as well as having the second best potable water in the world. We were named one of the most livable cities in Asia by Asiaweek Magazine and the most competitive to do business in, in the Philippines by the Asian Institute of Management. In addition, we are privileged that our 911 Integrated Emergency Response Network makes us one of only three areas in the world after the US and Canada to activate such an effective programme, that ensures security in the city that now enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Meanwhile, we also take pride in our annual “Kadayawan Festival”, the biggest thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest held in August where street dancing, floral float parade and showcase of indigenous peoples’ cultures are highlighted. This week-long festivity never fails to give visitors an exhilarating experience, which you will also experience in January as we stage several events to welcome you all. Indeed, we are happy to host the 2006 ASEAN Tourism Forum and we look forward to your arrival as Davao City beckons to be discovered. See you in January! RODRIGO R. DUTERTE Mayor, Davao City Chairman, ATF 2006 - Davao Host Council |