The beauty and healthcare industry in the Philippines bucks the global economic downturn and thrives on the back of increased foreign visitor arrivals and expanding middle class spawned by the growing business process outsourcing industry.

"Contrary to expectations, three things thrive during crisis, namely: food, alcohol, and aesthetics," said Dr. Dr. Yanee V. Santos, founder of Aesthetic Science Clinic, a specialized clinic in the field of cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery located in Alabang, Muntinlupa.

Dr. Santos, who used to work for the Belo Medical Group, said there is a rising demand for body and skin treatment in the country, particularly among office workers and call center agents.  To serve its growing clientele base, Aesthetic Science, which adopts the medical spa concept, opened another clinic at the Ground Floor of Jupiter Place along Jupiter St. in Bel-air, Makati City, quickly drawing following among executives and employees at the commercial business district.

Israel has opened a monument in honor of the Philippines, which declared an open door policy for Jews during the Second World War.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano witnessed the unveiling of the Open Doors monument at the Rishon Lezion Memorial Park in Israel on June 21.

“This monument commemorates the Philippines’ selfless efforts in opening the country for thousands of Jews, where they found a safe haven during a difficult period in their history. It is indeed an honour to remember this strong connection, at a time when the world is faced with a lot uncertainty and challenges,” said Durano.

Promising an even bigger and better event this year, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano has again raised the bar by targeting over 200 Buyers for the Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex) slated for 2-3 September 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. 

According to Durano, “This year’s Phitex is envisioned as a strong avenue for tourism linkages amongst stakeholders in the industry.  In a time of economic challenges, it is important to work together to find alternative solutions and creative programs to address these.”

“The Department continually encourages travel within the country to not only stimulate economic growth, but more importantly promote a sense of pride amongst fellow Filipinos, “Durano further said.  

Century old wrecks, mating mandarin fish, threatening thresher sharks, meter-long giant clams.  These are just some of the reasons why professional divers from the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) are getting more and more drawn to the Philippine’s underwater paradise.

“With over 60 registered sites spread out in our islands, the country has one of the most diverse highlights for diving,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

Two different lengthy features with full colored images on the island’s premier dive sites, Puerto Galera, Malapascua, Apo Island and Palawan, landed on UK and US editions of top dive magazine Sport Diver.