Cover (Photo: Department of Tourism-Manila)
(Photo: Department of Tourism-Manila)
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Dubbed the “HOHO”, local and international tourists can now explore Makati’s tourism hubs through a single connected bus trip
Makati is more than just towering buildings and shopping plazas. In its less-frequented streets are cultural heritage spots, art museums, and parks that will engulf curious wanderers with their timeless charm.
Just recently, the local government of Makati and the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the Hop On, Hop Off or “HOHO” initiative to promote the city’s tourism hubs through a modern shuttle system and a mobile app.
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The city, which features places like the Ayala and Yuchengco museums, Nuestra Señora de Gracia Parish Church or the Guadalupe Ruins, and more, is the pilot site of the HOHO project. “Through the collaboration between the Department of Tourism and the City Government of Makati, we are opening doors to a new era of tourism,” Makati Mayor Abby Binay said in a statement.
“Together, we are creating opportunities for residents and visitors to discover the vibrant heritage and lifestyle that Makati has to offer,” she added.
Above The Yuchengco Museum in Ayala, Makati (Photo: RCBC Plaza)
The Yuchengco Museum in Ayala, Makati (Photo: RCBC Plaza)
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Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, for her part, shared that the project takes inspiration from world-class HOHO buses in key cities across the globe. Other places that offer sightseeing tours are London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Newyork, Chicago, Dubai, and more.
“This gives opportunities for our tourists not only to be reminded of the spirit of modernity and innovation that Makati has always been known for, but also to get to know the soul of the city that lies in its hidden gems, museums, the many stops that are covered by this tour that will allow our tourists–domestic and international alike– to get to know the people of Makati, to get to know its rich history, culture, and heritage,” Frasco said in an Instagram post. “Next launch will be in Manila as well as in other cities in Metro Manila, and more to come in other cities in the Philippines!”
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Above Guadalupe Church ruins in Makati, Philippines, 1899-1900 (Photo: John Tewell/Flickr)
Above Guadalupe Church (Photo: Valero Grand Suites)
Guadalupe Church ruins in Makati, Philippines, 1899-1900 (Photo: John Tewell/Flickr)
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The HOHO bus tour operates Wednesdays to Fridays from 10am to 6pm. Interested tourists may book tours through the HOHO mobile app. One-day passes, which give travellers unlimited access to HOHO bus stops throughout the day, cost PHP990
Meanwhile, residents and Makati City Hall personnel with ‘Makatizen Cards’ may avail of a 40 per cent discount.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
