Smart-powered Iloilo Guide to provide key tourism information during Dinagyang Festival

Revelers of the 2019 Dinagyang Festival can now enjoy the religious and cultural showcase even more, using the new Iloilo Guide, a digital tourism app launched jointly by the Provincial Government of Iloilo, Smart Communications (Smart), and Innopub Media.
The Iloilo Guide app includes comprehensive travel information which may be downloaded from interactive tourism markers using one’s mobile phone. Download of information is triggered through quick response (QR) codes and near field communication (NFC) chips installed in the markers found in various Iloilo destinations.

These technologies are part of #TravelSmart, Smart’s digital tourism program which involves the development of mobile apps for tourist destinations around the Philippines. For Iloilo province, the Iloilo Guide features places to visit, food and activities to try out, and key service and emergency numbers. It also includes heritage information, local literature, and cultural trivia. The app was launched last year during the 117th SemanaSang Iloilo, the provincial government’s foundation anniversary celebration.

“The Iloilo Guide app and newly-installed digital markers are useful for festival-goers who are eager to discover new and exciting destinations in Iloilo. They can make the most out of their Dinagyang experience using one of the most ubiquitous tools of today—the mobile phone,” says Smart Public Affairs Visayas-Mindanao head Maria Jane Paredes.

Iloilo markers showcase sites such as Carles, where travelers can learn more about the pristine white sand and aquamarine waters of Islas de Gigantes. Those who want a more cultural experience can also activate an interactive marker in San Joaquin Church, a landmark that is ingrained with deep history behind the Rendicion de Tetuan or the 1859 Spanish victory over Moroccan forces in Tetuan, Africa.

Smart and Innopub’s #TravelSmart initiative aims to promote Philippine destinations to travelers from anywhere in the world by harnessing mobile technology. “Phones are a must-have for any tourist, especially for a spectacle as big as Dinagyang.” says Innopub co-founder Max Limpag.

“Those who have the Iloilo Guide app can be sure that they only get updated and accurate information when they scan digital markers in different tourist attractions, thus allowing them to enjoy the festival even more,” Limpag adds.

Since its launch in 2012, the #TravelSmart program has been implemented in Baguio City, Cebu Davao, and Metro Manila, among other areas. “By making information on travel and culture accessible to more people – that is, through their phones – the digital tourism program can help further enhance tourism in communities all over the Philippines,” says Smart Public Affairs head Ramon R. Isberto.

Iloilo Guide and other Smart and Innopub digital tourism apps may be downloaded for free on both Android and iOS devices.

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