CNN International continues its commitment to the Philippines, announcing a special week of live reports and feature programming.
This week, CNN International will have comprehensive coverage of the APEC summit in Manila with CNN’s Quest Means Business host Richard Quest and Asia-Pacific Editor Andrew Stevens broadcasting from APEC.
In addition, Andrew Stevens will present Philippines Now, a special five-part series that showcases the people and industries that personify the Philippines.
Highlights include:
Jeepneys: Driving the Philippines
Nothing embodies Filipino culture quite like the iconic, ubiquitous Jeepney – former G.I. jeeps that served one purpose in the Second World War before being transformed into a means of mass transport and then further elevated to mobile canvasses for local artists. CNN takes you on a ride through Manila to see how Jeepneys are made and designed and how they’ve adapted with the times.
Coconuts
The world is having a love affair with all things coconut. Coconut water, oil, flour, flakes and spread are just the tip of the iceberg. The Philippines is the world’s second biggest producer of coconuts but an aging tree population and damage done by natural disasters are creating some challenges. CNN looks at how the coconut industry is evolving and continuing to capitalize on the strong demand for its products.
Coral reefs
The Philippines is at the apex of the so-called “Coral Triangle”, a region celebrated as the most diverse marine ecosystem on the planet – not to mention a big draw for tourists. Climate change and destructive fishing practices are threatening the country’s coral reefs, with consequences both environmental and economical. CNN follows a group that is trying to protect the reefs and spread awareness.
Women Flying High
Traditionally, women in the Philippines sought work overseas, in many cases making them the breadwinners of their families but keeping them away from their loved ones. Now there are growing opportunities at home specifically aimed at women. A pilot training academy is at the forefront of getting women into the cockpit, allowing them to reach for the sky.
Center Stage
The Philippines is the spiritual home of karaoke. It’s the country’s national pastime: karaoke machines can be found in almost every household and at every occasion and the patent is held by a Filipino.
With more casinos being developed, so too are the Vegas-esque performance venues within them, elevating this national pastime from home to the stage.
As well as in-depth APEC coverage and special Philippines Now programming, Richard Quest will also shoot an episode of Business Traveller. Quest will uncover some of the Philippines’ most exclusive beaches and resorts exploring the issues, trends and lifestyle of the travelling executive.
The half-hour Philippines Now airs today, 11a.m. and 8:30 p.m. and on Sunday, 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and Monday at 12 noon.