Collado unveils plans for new higher education institute in Tourism

Punta Cana.- The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) is taking proactive steps towards addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the country’s expanding hotel sector. Minister David Collado recently announced plans for the establishment of a specialized higher education institute in Punta Cana, focusing on tourism.

Collado revealed that the institute will be funded using Mitur’s reserves, with approximately $20 million earmarked for the creation of a top-tier professional school. The land for the institute’s construction will be generously donated by the Puntacana Group for the benefit of the Dominican State.

“We are investing Mitur’s savings to establish a professional tourism school, aiming to enhance service quality and ensure the sustainability of tourism in the long term,” highlighted Collado. Given that Punta Cana and Bávaro collectively welcome an average of 4.5 million tourists annually, reinforcing education in the region is deemed essential.

Collado emphasized that the initiative will be complemented by a collaboration with the Ministry of Education, reflecting the importance and prominence of the tourism sector in the national curriculum.

In addition to the local efforts, the government is in discussions with a European institution to establish the project through an international public-private partnership. Collado clarified that rather than creating new programs from scratch, they aim to form an alliance with an institution with an international profile to develop what would be an unprecedented educational institution in the country and the region.

Collado stressed the significance of training and preparing personnel with technical expertise to ensure the delivery of high-quality service and the long-term sustainability of tourism. “Education in tourism is crucial, as it’s the primary industry that the country has developed,” he emphasized.

As part of Mitur’s educational initiatives, plans are also underway for the establishment of a Tourist Assistance Center, integrating key government offices to provide comprehensive information to non-resident foreigners visiting the Dominican Republic. The center, spanning 1,000 square meters, is poised to become the largest of its kind in the region.

“We are positioning ourselves to become the strongest tourism force in the entire region,” predicted Collado at the twenty-fourth edition of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024).

Bank BHD commits over US$500 Million to Tourism development

Santo Domingo.- Banco BHD has announced its commitment to structuring financing for hotel and tourist real estate projects totaling over US$500 million, aimed at fostering economic growth in the country.

Luis Molina Mariñez, Senior Vice President of Corporate and Business Banking at Banco BHD, emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting the comprehensive development of the industry. He stated, “We collaborate with hotel projects, real estate ventures, and the entire business ecosystem, offering tailored advice and structuring facilities to meet our clients’ needs. This underscores our commitment to furthering this vital sector, which is a significant driver of the country’s economic progress.”

Ariel Pérez, Vice President of Tourism and Related Services at Banco BHD, highlighted the bank’s focus on evaluating hotel and real estate investments that promote sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic, particularly emphasized during their participation in DATE 2024.

At the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange fair, Banco BHD presented its value proposition tailored to the tourism sector. The bank offers personalized advice, loan structuring services, administration of syndicated loans, sale and leaseback, as well as resource management in capital markets and mergers and acquisitions, all provided by a team of experts.

Banco BHD has a long-standing history of financing tourism-related projects, spanning over two decades. Over the last 15 years, the bank has provided over US$850 million in financing to the sector. In 2023 alone, the entity experienced a 47% growth in its credit portfolio, with nearly a 20% increase in market share concerning its total portfolio within the tourism sector.

Establishment of Laguna Arrecifal of Bávaro Ecological Recovery Area

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MMARN) has taken steps to bolster the legal framework for the protection of marine biodiversity by establishing the “Laguna Arrecifal de Bávaro Ecological Recovery Area” through resolution.

Signed by Minister Miguel Ceara Hatton on April 9, 2024, Resolution No. 0008/2024 delineates the necessary restrictions to mitigate the adverse impact on sea turtle populations from vessels engaged in tourist activities.

Covering 18.4 square kilometers of marine space delimited by specific coordinates, the newly designated protected area aims to conserve endangered sea turtle populations, as outlined by José Ramón Reyes, Vice Minister of Coastal and Marine Affairs at MMARN.

Reyes emphasized that the Ministry enforces a stringent management and regulatory program to ensure adherence to protection measures for these species.

Key provisions of the resolution include speed and access restrictions for vessels, a ban on fishing activities and vessel anchoring within protected areas, and the imposition of penalties for violations.

Additionally, MMARN directs various government entities to undertake proactive measures in environmental surveillance and education, fostering awareness about the significance of marine preservation and the protection of endangered species.

The resolution is accessible on the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources website. Vice Minister Reyes encourages the community, particularly individuals involved in navigation in the area, to familiarize themselves with the resolution and contribute to the safeguarding of this invaluable natural heritage.

How tourism continues to drive Dominican economic growth

Punta Cana – The Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores) is optimistic about the future of this sector since the last year, 2023, it closed as the most dynamic productive activity with 10.7% growth and contributed US$9.7 billion in income.

“Tourism has been in this difficult period the main sector that has driven the growth of the Dominican economy. Last year it closed as the most dynamic productive activity with 10.7% growth and contributed US$9.7 billion in income, an increase of 16% compared to 2022,” stressed the entity’s president, David Llibre, at the opening ceremony of DATE 2024.

He explained that in 2023, the average daily expenditure of international tourists also grew from US$130 to US$153.

He highlighted that tourism also registered a record in foreign direct investment, with US$1,822 million, a 12% growth and representing 27% of the total foreign direct investment registered by the Central Bank of the Republic.

“These figures have an impact, not only on tourism projects and the different actors in the sector, but also on an entire society that in a direct and indirect way benefits from the productive chaining that the sector generates,” he said.

He recalled that the tourism projects announced last year in DATE continue to advance. “Punta Bergantín in Puerto Plata has already signed agreements with four important tourism groups that will begin to develop their hotels once the processes established by the related regulations and laws are concluded.”

In the South, he added, “in Pedernales, the first two hotels are expected to be ready by next winter and the necessary infrastructure works and the preparation of the communities for the productive change that began with the opening of the cruise port of Cabo Rojo, which has already received the first two visits of ships with thousands of passengers.”

In Miches, said the president of Asonahores, “the region close to Punta Cana, the construction of new hotels continues to advance. And in the cruise sector, the cruise port of Santa Bárbara de Samaná is expected to be ready by the end of next season.”

Llibre emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) “continues its aggressive promotional strategy, through participation in the different international fairs, the presentation of the Dominican tourism product in the different issuing countries carried out by the Minister of Tourism himself, the support for this DATE event, as well as the stimulation of new air routes for the Dominican Republic.”

For this reason, he emphasized that Asonahores “is attentive and follows the processes of changes that are registered in the different segments of the international tourism market, and participates together with the Government and the Ministry of Tourism in the processes to connect us with the behavior and new trends of the markets.”

Hyatt to add 1,000 rooms in Dominican Republic with two new hotels

Santo Domingo – Matthias Hohner, regional commercial vice president for the Dominican Republic and Colombia, explained that Secrets Playa Esmeralda, an adults-only hotel, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, designed for the entire family, promise an exceptional experience for their guests.

He noted that Hyatt Inclusive Collection’s expansion within the Dominican Republic includes attractive destinations known for their culture, architecture, cuisine, and history, offering something special for every guest throughout the country with popular leisure destinations such as Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Macau, and now in Playa Esmeralda.

“The expansion of our hotel offerings provides options for every type of visitor, from luxury accommodations to a plethora of spaces to provide an unforgettable experience. We continue to listen to our guests and expand our brands in destinations where they want to visit and see Hyatt Inclusive Collection hotels,” said the hotel executive.

In the framework of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), he emphasized that the Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic is an essential priority for Hyatt. It has a portfolio of 15 resorts and 8,069 rooms in five destinations nationwide.

Hohner detailed that recent openings in the Dominican Republic include the hotels: Secrets Tides Punta Cana, with 668 rooms, host hotel for the DATE 2024 closing event; Dreams Flora Resort & Spa, with 520 suites; Sunscape Dominicus La Romana, with 854 accommodations and Sunscape Coco Punta Cana with 1,059.

Details of the new properties
The new properties in Playa Esmeralda will feature ten restaurants, some inspired by different countries, serving exquisite delicacies. Guests will have unlimited access to a wide selection of national and international beverages, various activities, and live nightly entertainment.

In addition to a spectacular beach, the properties offer a wide range of amenities to their visitors, ranging from relaxing pools and a luxurious spa to modern convention centers for all kinds of events, as well as theater, piano bar, sports areas, discotheques, and other amenities, to satisfy all guests’ tastes and preferences.

For the little ones, Dreams Playa Esmeralda offers a space specially designed for fun and recreation in the Explorer’s Club and the Core Zone. Here, children and teenagers can enjoy exciting activities supervised by trained staff. There is a fascinating water park at their disposal for those who prefer to enjoy the water.

Global Growth
Luis Núñez, Global Vice President of Sales, noted that the chain completed a transformational year in 2023, leading the industry in net room growth for the seventh consecutive year, reaching a record level of rates and the highest free cash flow in the company’s history.

The hotel chain’s loyalty program is the fastest-growing in the industry. Membership grew 22% in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching a record of nearly 44 million members.

“We remain committed to expanding our global presence as part of our growth strategy. Each of our properties shares the common goal of enriching our interest in being in strategic locations and expanding options for our guests,” he quoted.

He added that Hyatt Inclusive Collection has a proven track record of preserving the DNA of each acquired brand, maintaining its unique characteristics, and making it the best option for tourists and locals.

Also present at the meeting were Luis Carreño, Director of International Marketing; Elsa Ramírez, International Marketing Manager, Caribbean and Central America; managers from different properties; and special guests.

Frontier will have nearly 34,000 seats on the Puerto Rico-Santiago de los Caballeros flight

Santo Domingo – The Civil Aviation Board (JAC) learned of the request for an amendment to Frontier Airlines’ operating permit to include the San Juan/Santiago/San Juan-Puerto Rico route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays of each week from June 14, 2024, in Airbus A320neo (32N) model aircraft with a capacity for 186 people.

José Ernesto Marte Piantini, president of the JAC, said that the airline’s interest is based on the fact that air connectivity in the province of Santiago is experiencing marked growth through the establishment of new routes and frequencies.

He indicated that according to and based on the data, it is estimated that, from June 2 to December 31 of this year, the airline will offer 33,826 seats, with which it plans to transport 27,061 passengers.

“This increase not only evidences the importance of air connectivity in the region, but also the positive impact on the local economy, since the international connectivity offered by Cibao International Airport is a competitive advantage for the Dominican territory that highlights the impact and strategic relevance in the establishment of the country as a logistics hub in the region,” Piantini said.

Likewise, the entity learned of the request for another special permit from Frontier to carry out flights on the Tampa/San Juan/Santo Domingo/Tampa and Tampa /Santo Domingo/San Juan/Tampa routes, from April 17 to May 4, 2024, with a frequency of one flight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, on both routes.

Similarly, the members of the JAC plenary learned about the request to amend Southwest Airlines’ operating permit to connect the city of Punta Cana with Baltimore, Orlando, Chicago, Houston, and St. Louis in the United States.

Southwest plans to begin operations on Boeing B737 aircraft with a capacity of 143 seats and on B738 and B738M model aircraft, with a capacity for 175 seats on the requested routes starting in June of this year, with a frequency of one flight every day.

Based on the data above, it is estimated that, from June to December 2024, the requested routes will offer 612,468 seats and carry 587,153 passengers.

Also, the agency learned of the request for a special permit from Rutaca to operate on the Maturín/Santo Domingo/Maturín route from May 1 to August 28 of this year, with a frequency of one flight every Wednesday.

Dominican Republic: record visitor arrivals signal growth and optimism

Punta Cana, DR.- Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, is all smiles as visitor numbers continue to smash records. Collado highlighted the impressive figures at the recent 24th Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE), announcing over 3.2 million visitors in the first three months of the year alone, with air arrivals surpassing 800,000 in March.

This surge in tourism is fueling optimism, and Collado announced plans to invest in the sector’s future. A new Higher Tourism School will be established in the eastern region, a key arrival point for visitors, to further strengthen training and skills development. Additionally, a Tourist Service Center will be built, offering a central location for visitors to access all necessary services.

“This is a super excellent figure, to have the best start of the year in the entire history of the country, and with projections that are constantly growing,” said the official, who held important business meetings.

Likewise, during the event, the Dominican Republic was recognized by Tripadvisor in the Travelers’ Choice® Awards Best of the Best for 2024, as the world’s 4th best honeymoon destination and the most popular in the Caribbean. These awards were received by Tourism Minister Collado.

The official stated that in three months running the country has exceeded the figure of 800 thousand foreigners by air and more than 250 thousand by cruise ships for a total of one million visitors.

“What we have are signs of growth, confidence, new investments, and new hotel chains that believe in what we are doing in the Dominican Republic,” he said.

The official announced that in an alliance with the private sector and international academies, he will work on the installation of a tourism training institute in the eastern region, which is where most of the tourists who visit the Dominican Republic arrive.

“We are going to make an investment with the savings we have in MITUR to create a professional tourism school to have a better service and tourism is sustainable over time,” said Collado.

He added that this initiative will be accompanied by an agreement with Education and the vision of placing the subject of tourism in schools due to the importance and leadership achieved by the industry in the country.

He also announced that on a thousand square meters of land, the largest Tourist Service Center in the entire region will be built, where all State institutions will be located to serve travelers whenever they require it.

David Llibre, president of ASONAHORES, for his part, highlighted the growth that DATE exhibits every year, which he defined as the most important event in the tourism industry.

He said that in this new version more than 800 companies participate that have scheduled 8 thousand business meetings.

He stressed that the Dominican tourism product has been evolving and developing, which is why it has become a benchmark worldwide.

He expressed that in this edition the great variety that integrates the tourism industry such as hotel, real estate, cruise and different experiences, from adventure, health, shopping among others, is combined.

Asonahores: the future of Dominican tourism is promising

Punta Cana.- The President of the Hotel and Tourism Association of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), David Llibre, expressed optimism regarding the future of Dominican tourism despite recent global economic challenges. He emphasized the pivotal role of tourism in driving economic growth, especially evident in the sector’s remarkable performance amid crisis. Last year, tourism emerged as the most dynamic productive activity, boasting a growth rate of 10.7% and contributing US$9,700 million in income, marking a substantial 16% increase compared to 2022.

Llibre underscored the significant impact of tourism on the economy, citing statistics such as the rise in the average daily expenditure of international tourists from US$130 to US$153 in 2023. Additionally, he highlighted a record in foreign direct investment, reaching US$1,822 million, a growth of 12%, and representing 27% of the total foreign direct investment registered by the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic.

Speaking at the annual fair for the marketing of Dominican tourism products (DATE), Llibre emphasized the broader societal benefits derived from the tourism sector’s growth. He noted ongoing progress in tourism projects, including developments in Punta Bergantín, Puerto Plata, and Pedernales, as well as advancements in infrastructure and community preparation in various regions.

Regarding the cruise sector, Llibre mentioned the expansion of facilities in Cabo Rojo and the anticipated completion of the cruise port of Santa Bárbara de Samaná by the end of the next season. He also commended the Civil Aviation Board’s efforts to enhance air connectivity by opening new flights and routes to various destinations in North America, South America, the Caribbean, and Europe, along with approving codeshare agreements to facilitate connections.

Llibre welcomed the initiatives undertaken by the Ministries of Tourism and the Environment to approve a sustainability plan, recognizing it as a positive step forward for the sector. He also highlighted collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism and Asonahores to promote sustainable tourism practices among hotel groups.

In conclusion, Llibre emphasized the proactive approach of Asonahores in adapting to changes in the international tourism market and collaborating with the government and the Ministry of Tourism to align with evolving consumer behaviors and market trends.

Graphic industry of Dominican Republic leads use of Caribbean technology

Santo Domingo – The Dominican Republic’s printing industry is a leader in the use of technology in the Caribbean region. Between 60% and 70% of its production processes are digitalized.

In addition, it is positioned as one of the main exporters of its products in the region, only surpassed by the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago.

The main export destinations for books, magazines, inserts, and brochures are Puerto Rico and Haiti.

Sales to international trade of Dominican products in this sector averaged US$350 million in the last two years, according to statistics from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and MSMEs (MICM).

Participating in the Economic Meeting of the newspaper HOY, the president of the Dominican Association of Graphic and Related Industries (ADIGA), William Calderón, highlighted the great technological advances in the graphic sector, which is why more than half of the companies have converted their offset printing machines to digital, increasing their efficiency. quality and competitiveness.

Calderon said that when new machinery is launched in Europe, especially in Germany, the largest manufacturer of printing machines, the Dominican Republic is one of the first countries to invest in such equipment.

He pointed out that this happens especially in medium and large companies in the sector, while the smaller ones benefit from the sales of machines being changed locally.

He said that there are printing machines in the country that were difficult to see years ago in four-body offset. However, now there are six and even eight bodies, which have great efficiency and speed to print.

Tariff Reduction

The president of Adiga said that despite the advances registered by the printing industry in relation to the use of state-of-the-art machinery, the equipment has many tariffs.

He considered the day when that sector could pay fewer tariffs to be much better.

He said that Law 542-14 on Innovation and Industrial Competitiveness does not benefit this sector because it is composed mostly (90%) of small and medium-sized industries (SMEs) that find it difficult to comply with the requirements of that regulation.

Chaining

On the other hand, Adiga’s president said there is no productive link between the Dominican printing industry and foreign companies in free trade zones since the latter prefer to import their printing services.

In this regard, Calderon asked the MICM to make the necessary efforts to establish this “match.”

Hyatt Inclusive Collection expands with two new hotels in Esmeralda Beach

Punta Cana- Hyatt Inclusive Collection is amplifying its expansion strategy in the Dominican Republic with the debut of two new hotels in Playa Esmeralda in 2024, namely Secrets Playa Esmeralda and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, collectively adding a thousand luxurious rooms to their portfolio.

Matthias Hohner, the Regional Commercial Vice President for the Dominican Republic and Colombia, elaborated that both Secrets Playa Esmeralda, catering to adults only, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, designed for families, pledge an exceptional experience for their guests.

He emphasized that the expansion plan of Hyatt Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic encompasses captivating destinations renowned for their culture, architecture, cuisine, and history, promising something extraordinary for every guest across the country, including popular leisure spots like Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Macau, and now, Playa Esmeralda.

Hohner, speaking within the framework of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), underscored that the presence of Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic stands as a pivotal priority for Hyatt, boasting a portfolio of 15 resorts and 8,069 rooms across five destinations in the country. He elucidated that recent additions in the Dominican Republic encompass hotels such as Secrets Tides Punta Cana, serving as the host hotel for the concluding event of DATE 2024, along with Dreams Flora Resort & Spa, Sunscape Dominicus La Romana, and Sunscape Coco Punta Cana.

Details of the new properties reveal a plethora of amenities, including ten restaurants offering diverse cuisines inspired by various countries, unlimited access to domestic and international beverages, daytime activities, live evening entertainment, expansive pools, a luxurious spa, modern convention centers, theaters, piano bars, sports areas, nightclubs, and more to cater to all preferences.

For young guests, Dreams Playa Esmeralda features the Explorer’s Club and the Core Zone, offering supervised activities for children and teenagers, alongside a thrilling water park.

Global Vice President of Sales, Luis Núñez, highlighted the chain’s transformative year in 2023, leading the industry in net room growth for the seventh consecutive year, achieving record rates and the highest free cash flow in the company’s history. The loyalty program also experienced significant growth, with almost 44 million members recorded. Núñez reiterated their commitment to expanding global presence while maintaining the unique characteristics of each property, aiming to enrich guest experiences and strategic options.

The meeting also saw the participation of Luis Carreño, Director of International Marketing, Elsa Ramírez, International Marketing Manager for the Caribbean and Central America, property managers, and special guests.

Frontier Airlines expands routes from San Juan to Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Frontier Airlines has unveiled plans to introduce two new non-stop routes from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to the Dominican Republic and Barbados. The service to the Dominican Republic will commence on June 14, followed by the route to Barbados on July 3.

Departing from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in Carolina, the flight to the neighboring Dominican Republic will arrive at the Cibao International Airport in Santiago. Meanwhile, the route to Barbados will land at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Seawell.

Josh Flyr, Vice President of Network Design and Operations at Frontier Airlines, expressed excitement about the expansion, highlighting the support from the new crew base in San Juan set to open in June. The new routes will initially operate three times a week, with introductory fares starting at $59.

Jorge Hernández, President and CEO of Aerostar Airport Holdings, which manages Luis Muñoz Marín Airport, emphasized the significance of Frontier’s expanded service in enhancing Puerto Rico’s connectivity within the region.

Carlos Mercado Santiago, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, hailed the move as a step towards bolstering Puerto Rico’s position as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean.

Frontier’s decision to establish a new crew base at Luis Muñoz Marín Airport is anticipated to inject over $80 million annually into the local economy. In its inaugural year, the airline aims to hire approximately 90 pilots, 200 flight attendants, as well as additional airport and maintenance staff.

Puerto Plata prepares for DATE 2024

Puerto Plata, DR.- Utilizing its new destination brand as a promotional tool, Puerto Plata is gearing up for its participation in the twenty-third edition of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), set to take place from April 24 to 26 at the Paradisus Palma Real hotel in Punta Cana.

A delegation consisting of presidents, executive directors, and members of the destination’s Tourism Cluster (CTDPP), as well as the Associations of Hotels, Restaurants, and Tourism Companies of the North (Ashonorte), Playa Dorada Hotels (ADHPD), and Hotels and Restaurants of Sosúa and Cabarete (ASHORESOCA), will present credentials highlighting the significant progress achieved, promising the most successful iteration of DATE yet.

Amidst the Dominican tourism sector’s flourishing momentum and following months marked by remarkable dynamism, including successful participation in international events held in Colombia, Puerto Rico, and Miami, Florida.

Companies such as Ocean World Adventure Park, Chukka Caribbean, Universal Aviation, The Ocean Club Group, Vinícola del Norte, Senator Hotels and Resorts, Nature River Park, VH Hotels & Resorts, Viva Resorts, Casa Marina Beach and Reef, Hodelpa Hotels, Blue Bay Villas Doradas, Marien Puerto Plata, Mint Hotels & Residences, Lifestyle Holidays Hotels & Resorts, Fricolandia, Runners Adventures, Chocolate del Oro, El Gallo Ecolodge, La Aurora, Manureva Tours, Freedom Builders Global Group, will be representing the destination at DATE, showcasing its array of hotels, complementary attractions, culinary options, luxury tourism offerings, and events, along with investment opportunities, to 300 buyers from international companies and around 600 supplier delegates from the national tourism sector.

Dominican mayors urged to embrace Fourth Industrial Revolution

Punta Cana, DR.– Rafael Santos Badía, the Director General of the Technical and Vocational Training Institute (INFOTEP), delivered a lecture entitled “The Fourth Industrial Revolution and Its Implications for Public Management” to hundreds of elected mayors from different municipalities across the country. The mayors were attending the commemorative events of Municipalist Week, organized by the Dominican Municipal League.

Santos Badía proposed that mayors align their management with the advancements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and promote technical and vocational training for their constituents. He encouraged them to join the initiative to establish INFOTEP centers in each municipality as a way to stimulate the local economy.

“Through the use of new technologies, we can collect solid waste more efficiently, control traffic in cities, monitor people’s safety through smart cameras, control the frequency of services, manage taxes, and achieve successful management. All it takes is two processes: one is to digitally literate the population and the other is technical and vocational training,” he stated.

He pointed out that there is an underutilized figure in Law 176-07 that, if used, could bring about the transformations demanded by the municipalities.

“This figure is called ‘mancomunidad’ which promotes the concept of joining forces to do the same thing, and the figure of associationism, which is in the law – let’s pool our limited resources so that together we can solve the big problems – and this can be done by uniting several municipalities, which would bring solutions, for example, to the issue of landfills,” he explained.

He emphasized that in this way, all personnel will be trained and qualified in the various areas required through joint training for the development of technical and vocational training.

“The social problem in the Dominican Republic will not be solved with more solidarity cards and more appointments in the municipalities. The way to develop our territory is to train people, attract investment, and develop companies that generate wealth. When a person earns a salary, they fix their house, buy clothes for their family, supermarkets come in, and progress arrives. This is the miracle of human resource development,” he explained.

Dominican Municipalist Week

On the occasion of Municipalities Day, the Dominican Municipal League (LMD) kicked off Dominican Municipalist Week, with the aim of highlighting the fundamental role of local governments in promoting development and advancing their institutional strengthening. The theme of the week will be “More Capacities for a Local Power at the Service of the People.”

Dominican Municipalist Week will be held from April 19 to 30, coinciding with the inauguration of the new elected municipal authorities (2024-2028), who will receive their certificate of participation in the National Training Program for Municipal Authorities, an initiative developed by the Dominican Municipal League with the support of institutions such as the Technical Institute for Vocational Training (Infotep) and the University of the Caribbean (Unicaribe).

The event, headed by Víctor D’Aza, president of the LMD, José Alejandro Aybar, chancellor of Unicaribe, and Rafael Santos Badía, director general of INFOTEP, was attended (virtually) by the Minister of the Presidency Joel Santos, Jesús Vázquez, Minister of Interior and Police, Darío Castillo, Minister of Public Administration, Kelvin Cruz, president of Fedomu.

Also in attendance were international guests Karen Labrador, director of the Colonia de Bogotá, Colombia, Zoila Milagro Navas, mayor of Antiguo Cuscatlán in El Salvador. Also present were Maira Morla, deputy general director of INFOTEP, Briunny Garabito, Dominican ambassador to China, and Altagracia Tavárez, director of the Municipal Administration program at UNICARIBE, among others.

Punta Cana and Santo Domingo: high-demand Wingo destinations

Santo Domingo.- Jorge Jiménez, Vice President of Commercial and Planning at Wingo, unveiled the top three international destinations recommended by the airline’s new business unit, Wingo Vacations.

He highlighted Aruba, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico as the top picks.

“Every destination served by Wingo is fantastic. However, I highly recommend Aruba as it offers a unique experience, and we operate flights from Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali to Aruba. Secondly, the Dominican Republic, where we fly from Bogotá and Medellín to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. Lastly, Mexico, particularly Cancun, which is one of our premier destinations catering to all types of travelers,” he elaborated.

Jiménez noted that Colombia currently ranks as the third largest source of tourists to the Dominican Republic. “Colombians are increasingly drawn to this destination, renowned for its stunning beaches and abundant entertainment options,” he added, as reported by PubliMetro. He also mentioned that since the beginning of April, Aruba, Punta Cana, and Panama have been the most sought-after and booked destinations, with Santa Marta continuing to be a favorite among Colombian travelers.

At Wingo Vacations, travelers can conveniently organize their trips, including flights, accommodations, transfers, tours, insurance, and more, all in one place, and at affordable prices. Jiménez highlighted the attractive offers available to travelers across all Wingo-operated destinations.

Through its partnership with Price Travel Holding, Wingo Vacations offers over 250,000 hotel options catering to various preferences, ranging from luxurious, all-inclusive resorts to budget-friendly accommodations.

Dominican Republic wraps up 1st LatAm Trade Show with $28M in contracts

Orlando, US.- The Dominican Republic concludes its successful participation in the 1st LatAm Trade Show, held from April 16 to 18 in Orlando & Tampa Bay. Throughout the event, the Dominican delegation secured pre-purchase contracts exceeding US$28 million, solidifying its pivotal role in Latin American commercial exchanges.

Comprising 22 entities, including corporations and cooperatives, the Dominican delegation showcased its prowess across various economic sectors, spanning agriculture, fresh and processed foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, technology, and aerospace.

Francisco Holi Matos, Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Orlando, Florida, announced the forging of over 60 strategic marketing agreements and the initiation of nine distribution contracts for Dominican products across Florida. Beyond fostering commercial transactions, the event facilitated strategic dialogues between Dominican and foreign entrepreneurs, exploring fresh avenues for collaboration in the North American market.

In collaboration with the consulates of Mexico and Colombia, the event featured a diverse array of regional products, underscoring its significance and regional impact.

Raúl Alfonso, Executive Vice President of the Port of Tampa Bay, emphasized the port’s advantageous facilities for trade and offered incentives to importers, further fortifying commercial bonds between the Dominican Republic and the region.

The 1st LatAm Trade Show marks a pivotal milestone in bolstering Dominican trade within the US market, promising a prosperous trajectory for bilateral trade relations.

Exhibitors expressed their gratitude for the support extended by US authorities and the Dominican government, underscoring the collaborative spirit driving successful trade endeavors.

Dominican Republic breaks ground on Punta Bergantín Innovation Hub

Santo Domingo.– The Dominican Republic has taken a major step forward in becoming a hub for innovation with the inauguration of the Punta Bergantín Innovation Hub. This ambitious project is poised to be the nerve center of entrepreneurship and cutting-edge ideas for the entire Caribbean region.

Located a stone’s throw from the popular tourist destination of Puerto Plata, the initiative, also known as “Silicon Beach,” was announced as part of a comprehensive development plan by President Luis Abinader. It’s a testament to the strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The Hub’s leadership reflects this collaborative spirit. The Board of Directors boasts a balanced mix of six private sector leaders and five government representatives. Dr. Franklyn Holguín Haché serves as president, with Jonathan Bournigal Read as vice president.

Other notable members include the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development (MEPYD) and representatives from the Ministries of Tourism (MITUR), Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT), and Education (MINERD), along with the Government Office of Information and Communication Technologies (OGTIC).

The Punta Bergantín Innovation Hub leverages a “quadruple helix” model, bringing together government, businesses, universities, and the community. This approach aims to nurture the country’s human capital and provide the infrastructure needed to cultivate a thriving ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.

“The Punta Bergantín Innovation Hub is a game-changer for the Dominican Republic,” said Dr. Franklyn Holguín Haché, president of the non-profit association leading the initiative. “With our abundant resources, strategic location, and talented workforce, we have the potential to become a major player in global innovation. This Hub is a crucial step in making that a reality.”

The vision extends beyond fostering local talent. The Hub also seeks to establish the Dominican Republic as a magnet for international events, conferences, and investments from startups and tech giants alike.

The Hub itself rests on five key pillars. One pillar focuses on creating a digital “seedbed” to cultivate a future generation of tech talent by training over 10,000 individuals in the coming years. Another pillar involves establishing a center of excellence for research and development.

Entrepreneurship is also a core focus, with plans to create incubators and accelerators that offer attractive incentives to attract and retain digital nomads and entrepreneurial teams.

The vision doesn’t stop at the Hub itself. The plan is to leverage existing infrastructure and communities to transform Punta Bergantín into a leading destination for technology and entrepreneurship conferences.

Furthermore, the Hub’s development plan is being coordinated with the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation to unlock new business opportunities and elevate the Hub’s global profile.

Major engine for job creation

Beyond the Innovation Hub, the Punta Bergantín project is a sprawling development anticipated to be a major engine for job creation, with projections of over 15,000 new positions. This economic boost will fuel both tourism and social development, while also attracting significant foreign investment.

The project encompasses a vast area of nearly nine million square meters. In addition to the Innovation Hub, Punta Bergantín will boast over 4,500 hotel rooms, 2,000 mixed-use residential and tourist units, a world-class golf course, public beach clubs, and state-of-the-art film studios.

The project has already secured letters of intent for hotel construction with major hospitality groups, including the Puntacana Group (partnering with Meliá Hotels International), Grupo Martinón (with their Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara brands), and Karisma Hotels (who will also build a water park alongside their hotel).

Sustainability is a core principle for Punta Bergantín. Environmentally responsible technologies and a design focused on preserving the area’s natural resources are being prioritized throughout all three phases of development. Additionally, the project’s academic spaces will champion the generation of new knowledge in sustainability and innovation.

Billy Horschel claims victory at Corales Puntacana Championship

Punta Cana.- North American golfer Billy Horschel clinched his eighth victory on the PGA Tour, triumphing in the seventh edition of the Corales Puntacana Championship that concluded this past Sunday. With this win, Horschel earned 300 FedEx Cup points and a prize purse of US$720,000.00 out of the total event purse of US$4.0 million.

Horschel was presented with his trophy during an awards ceremony led by Frank Elías Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana; Frank Rainieri, founder and president of the Board of Grupo Puntacana; Stephen Cox, PGA TOUR chief referee; Francesca Rainieri, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Grupo Puntacana; Manuel Sajour, executive director of Grupo Puntacana; and Hiram Silfa, Director of Golf Courses at Puntacana Resort, in what was a historic tournament culminating on the 18th hole of the Corales golf course.

Mr. Frank Rainieri presented the new champion with the traditional Corales hat and a Guayabera, emblematic of the tournament.

“This has been an incredible experience. I am grateful to the organizers and to all the fans who attended. Dominicans are very welcoming, and I feel at home here. I extend my gratitude to the fans, all the tournament staff, and the entire Rainieri family. This will be a week I will never forget,” said Horschel during the awards ceremony.

Don Frank Rainieri, Founder and Chairman of the Board of the Puntacana Group, along with Frank Elías, presented the official tournament memorabilia, which includes the champion’s traditional white chacabana and the Puntacana Resort hat. Frank Elías Rainieri formally presented the trophy.

Additionally, Mr. Frank Elías Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, stated: “We are immensely grateful to celebrate an event that showcases the best of the Dominican Republic to the world. We extend our thanks to all the collaborators, volunteers, the PGA Tour, and you, the fans, who joined us in celebrating this significant milestone in Dominican sports. Our heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 champion, Billy Horschel.”

The tournament garnered a reach of 7.8 billion impressions in digital and print media nationally and internationally across 153 countries, reaching 7 million viewers in the United States and 4 million in Europe.

For further details: https://www.puntacana.com/coraleschampionship

Instagram/Facebook @coraleschampionship

Champion’s Victory

The tournament maintained its highly competitive nature throughout the weekend, with Wesley Bryan leading the first three rounds. Horschel, starting his day two groups ahead and three behind the lead in fifth place, ultimately secured victory with an exceptional round of 63 strokes (a tournament record).

Wesley Bryan, the leader of the first three rounds, finished second, two strokes behind the leader after a round of 68. His second-place finish earns him a prize of US$436,000.00.

Silver Airways boosts tourism in Puerto Plata with direct flight from Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico – Silver Airways, since the end of last year, has offered direct flights from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, giving tourists from the unincorporated territory of the United States a great advantage of avoiding the three hours (approximately) drive from Santo Domingo towards the tourist destination of the North of the country.

The facility is offered with frequencies that take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:20 a.m., with the option to return to Puerto Rico on the same days at 12:25 p.m. in an aircraft for 46 passengers.

It is recalled that this route was announced in the last Roadshow that was held in the cities of Ponce and San Juan by the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) to encourage the promotion of the Dominican North Coast in Puerto Rico.

Details of the air operation, according to a Primera Hora passenger in Puerto Rico

• The plane is boarded from the runway. There is no bridge or boarding bridge.

• The passenger carries their carry-on baggage (baby strollers, etc.) up the boarding stairs. Similarly, upon disembarkation, the passenger is in charge of unloading their luggage.

• The overhead bin has a space limitation, so if the carry-on baggage is in its expanded version, it may not be allowed to be taken into the cabin. In this case, it would be located in the space where the checked bags are.

• The plane does not offer a Wi-Fi connection or the option to charge an electronic device.

• The aircraft accommodates 46 passengers and makes it relatively quick to board. In fact, there is no division of groups to address.

• The flight is direct. It only takes an hour and a half.

• The seat option will be available once you have completed the “check-in” process.

Dominican Association of Tourism Press holds packed annual assembly

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Association of Tourism Press (Adompretur) convened its 2024 Ordinary General Assembly with a strong showing from its national members, adhering to Article 18 of its bylaws.

Cristian Mota, General Secretary, kicked off the event by welcoming everyone and reminding them that, as stated in Article 6 of the bylaws, “active members are journalists and communicators who fulfill their institutional duties.”

Yenny Polanco Lovera, Adompretur’s President, emphasized the importance of these assemblies in keeping members engaged and informed about the board’s initiatives aligned with the work plan.

Polanco Lovera highlighted a recent agreement with Club Paraíso, offering Adompretur members access to this recreational, sports, and cultural venue at a special rate.

Mayra De Peña, Director of Finance, presented a financial report covering September 2023 to March 2024, detailing administrative expenses and revenue generated by various activities.

The agenda also included the announcement of Cynthia Martínez’s resignation for personal reasons and the election of Luis Santiago Severino as the new Director of Marketing. Additionally, Barnadiz González was voted in as a member of the Ethics Committee.

Polanco Lovera reminded everyone that the National Council of Adompretur met in February, as mandated by the bylaws. Branch directors presented reports on their past year’s activities and upcoming plans, except for Puerto Plata, whose board hasn’t been sworn in yet.

The assembly, held at the Orlando Martínez Room of the Dominican College of Journalists, also saw the welcoming of new members from Santo Domingo, Sosúa-Cabarete, and La Romana.

Amelia Reyes, Director of Training, announced the board’s plan for a series of training sessions across branches, kicking off in Constanza with the participation of Manuel Quiterio Cedeño, a former president of Adompretur.

She also mentioned ongoing efforts to renew the agreement with the National Institute for Technical and Professional Training (INFOTEP) and the organization of the 20th edition of the Epifanio Lantigua National Tourism Journalism Award.

The event concluded at 2:09 PM with representatives from Santo Domingo and branches in Higüey, Bávaro-Punta Cana, Sosúa-Cabarete, and La Romana. Raysa Féliz (Regional Director East) and Fidias David Cuevas (Regional Director Northeast) were also present.

The 2023-2025 national board of directors is led by President Yenny Polanco Lovera, Vice President Salvador Batista, and General Secretary Cristian Mota. The team is completed by Mayra De Peña (Finance Director), Carmen Bretón (Communications & PR Director), José Alberto Selmo (Institutional Relations Director), Juan de Dios Valentín (Regional Affairs Director), Amelia Reyes (Training Director), José Ramón Torres (Culture & Tourism Director), Cristina Rosario (Events Director), and Luis Santiago Severino (Marketing Director).

The Ethics Committee is headed by Luis José Chávez, a former Adompretur president, and includes secretary Yomaris Gómez and members Barnadiz González, Yubelkys Mejía, and legal advisor Sarah Hernández. Héctor Méndez, president of Adompretur Joven, is also part of the group.

Abinader gains backing of Dominican creative and cultural industry

Santo Domingo.- On Thursday, Luis Abinader, the Dominican president and presidential candidate of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) and allied parties, received a notable show of support from the Dominican creative and cultural industry.

Gathering over a thousand artists, writers, intellectuals, and artisans from the Dominican cultural sector, the event was a resounding endorsement of Abinader’s candidacy for reelection with the PRM and its allies.

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Abinader emphasized the invaluable contribution of the cultural sector to the Dominican Republic’s rich tapestry through its artistic endeavors, music, and cultural heritage.

Accompanied by his wife Raquel Arbaje, Abinader expressed his deep commitment to both the country and its cultural vibrancy. He acknowledged the sector’s support as integral to his vision of building a nation that fulfills the aspirations of every Dominican.

Reflecting on his presidency’s response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Abinader underscored the government’s efforts to support the artistic-cultural sector during the crisis period. Specific plans were implemented to assist various segments within the sector, which had been severely impacted by the country’s closure for over two and a half years.

Moreover, Abinader highlighted the economic resurgence witnessed in the past year and a half, signaling a promising path toward recovery for the Dominican creative and cultural industry.

Listening attentively to the sector’s needs and policy recommendations, Abinader assured that each demand would be carefully evaluated and integrated into the government’s agenda in the best interest of the nation. He pledged unwavering support for the sector’s promotion and materialization of its aspirations.

Looking ahead to his next presidential term, Abinader announced plans for the establishment of a cultural cabinet comprising key institutions such as the Ministries of Education, Tourism, and Foreign Relations. This collaborative effort aims to formulate public policies that bolster the cultural sector and enhance its contribution to national development.

The event also served as a platform for the presentation of an array of cultural proposals by representatives of the sector. Additionally, a manifesto titled “Now it’s up to Art and Culture” was delivered, outlining nine key commitments to strengthen the country’s cultural infrastructure.

Abinader pledged to champion legislation that empowers creators and ensures widespread cultural participation across the Dominican Republic. He affirmed his dedication to fostering a thriving cultural landscape that preserves Dominican identity and enriches the lives of its citizens.