PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

03October

October 03, 2024 / Thursday

12 September 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in Calgary (Calgary PCG)

officially launched the much anticipated 9th edition of the Winter Escapade, highlighting

the theme “True North Goes North”. The event, held at the Consulate’s premises,

attracted 60 enthusiastic members of the Filipino-Canadian community, travel

enthusiasts, and supporters of Philippine Tourism.

Winter Escapade is a cultural and tourism tour program of the Philippine Posts in

Canada designed to promote the Philippines as a premier destinations for overseas

Filipinos and foreign tourists. Set from 9 to 10 February 2025, Winter Escapade 9

(WE9) will explore the rich and vibrant regions of Northern Philippines, particularly

Ilocandia. Attendees were treated to a preview of the tour’s itinerary, which includes

scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural immersion in the Ilocos Region,

home to the renowned Vigan UNESCO Heritage village, the majestic baroque Paoay

Church, and the famous windmills of Bangui.

Philippine Consul General Emma R. Sarne expressed excitement about the tour’s focus

on Northern Philippines, stating “this is not your Lolo’s Ilocos”. In her welcome remarks,

ConGen Sarne mentioned that Winter Escapade 9 will provide “an extraordinary

opportunity for participants to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the

Ilocos Region.” “It’s a perfect reflection of the tour’s theme, “True North Goes North,”

connecting Canadians with the Philippines’ northern treasures,” she added.

Consul General Emma Sarne (top left) and Mr. Jojo Clemente (top right) speaking with guests on the

various aspects of the upcoming Winter Escapade 9 Tour (Calgary PCG)

In his presentation, Mr. Jojo Clemente, President of Rajah Tours, shared the details of

the WE9 tour package, informing that the tour will bring participants to the new scenic

locations of the Ilocos region of the Philippines, with stops in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La

Union, as well as optional tours to Baguio City and Pangasinan.

Philippine Department of Tourism Attache in San Francisco, Ms. Soleil Tropicales

virtually presented the DOT teaser video “True North Goes North.”

Guests share their experience in taking part in previous Winter Escapades (Calgary PCG)

Invited guests to the launch, Mr. Randy White, Ms. Lucy Reyes, Mr. Jun Buera, and Ms.

Dolly Castillo provided glowing testimonials of their participation in previous Winter

Escapades.

The launch also served as a culinary journey to Ilocandia, offering guests an authentic

taste of Northern Philippine cuisine. Traditional delicacies like the Ilocos Empanada,

Tupig, Poqui Poqui, and Vigan Longganisa, were prepared by the Ilocano chef of local

Calgary-based Filipino restaurant Pacific Hut and served to the guests.

“We want to give our guests not just a visual but also a sensory experience of what

awaits them in Ilocos,” said ConGen Sarne. “The rich flavors of Ilocano food are as

much a part of the region’s identity as its scenic wonders.”

Winter Escapade 9 is scheduled to take place from 9 to 18 February 2025, offering

participants a unique opportunity to escape Canada’s winter chill and immerse

themselves in the warmth and hospitality of the Philippines. Registration for WE9 is now

open at http://winterescapadeph.com/registration.html.

Philippine Consulate General in Calgary launches Winter Escapade 9 with the tagline, “True North Goes North.”