Photo from Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN
The city government of Manila and the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the Manila leg of the Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) bus tour project at the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Ermita district on Thursday, July 6.
HOHO is the new project initiated by the DOT as part of its new campaign slogan "Love the Philippines." The bus tour seeks to provide group and individual travelers convenience and flexibility in going to Metro Manila tourist spots.
It was first launched in Makati last May 28, making it the pilot site to promote scenic places through a modern shuttle system and a mobile application.
A one-day pass is worth P990, while a two-day pass costs P1,799, and P2,499 for a three-day pass. The tour pass can be purchased through HOHO mobile application.
DOT said the bus tour project was developed for over two years.
Photo from Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN
In her speech, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna- Pangan took pride in the city's history and heritage sites. She said the project is a vital component of the city's tourism and cultural development plan.
"This scheme will evidently enable visitors to seamlessly and without much hassle enjoy the beauty and charm of Manila," Lacuna-Pangan said.
She said the bus tour will have eight hubs or destinations, which include Binondo, Malacañang heritage sites, historic churches, Intramuros, Escolta, Manila's universities, and National Museums.
"Friends, ladies, and gentlemen name it, we have it. This is the distinct appeal that the capital city has. A visit in Manila will be a glimpse of what the Philippines can offer," Lacuna- Pangan said.
The local chief executive also acknowledged the efforts of her administration in encouraging DOT to extend HOHO in Manila.
She believes that the bus tour project in the city will positively contribute to the country's economy.
Photo from Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN
Meanwhile, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the project strives to bring back the glory of Manila. She also assured that tourism in the cities of Metro Manila will continue to thrive through the HOHO project.
The city government said HOHO in Makati and Manila will be fully operational after the grand launch set to happen in July.