MANILA, Philippines—The tourism industry is one of the sectors hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic, with travel restrictions forcing the closure of hotels and other establishments offering accommodations. To help the industry bounce back, the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) launched the second season of its online travel show “Go Philippines Soar High TV (GPSTV).”
The group said the new season, with the theme “Go safe, go travel: Walk and talk with us,” will also have an hour-long special episode set to air on CNN Philippines on Dec. 11.
Hosted by Kevin Lapeña, the digital show had 16 episodes, including nine “bite-sized” installments streamed on the GPSTV Facebook page and YouTube channel. The first episode came out in September, while the special extended episode on CNN Philippines will be the season finalé.
“GPSTV” has featured not only some of the country’s most notable destinations, but also reminders on how to navigate the “new normal” of travelling. HSMA Vice President Loleth So said during the virtual media conference that “GPSTV” is “a collaborative effort aimed at reigniting the interest of millions of Filipinos, while keeping in mind health and safety.”
The travel show, presented by HSMA, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), will remind people “how beautiful the Philippines is,” she added.
HSMA Chair Margarita Munsayac believes that her group can reignite the people’s desire to travel by teaching tourists how to navigate destinations through “GPSTV.”
“Destinations are slowly opening. ‘GPSTV’ is there to give inspiration. This also assures our members that we are helping them, so they should look forward to the recovery of the tourism industry soon,” she declared.
Catch the season finale of “GPSTV” on CNN Philippines on Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., with a replay on Dec. 12 at 9 a.m.
