Posted: Wednesday | January 16, 2013 | 10:40 AM

Photography enthusiasts now have a new venue to showcase their work as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) launched its 1st National Photography Competition.

The state-owned gaming firm is now accepting entries for its first-ever nationwide photo contest. Using the government’s tourism slogan, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” the photo contest aims to promote the unique facets of Filipino customs and traditions, the country’s magnificent natural resources, tourist attractions, diverse activities, festivals, and historical landmarks among others.

PAGCOR Assistant VP for Corporate Communications Maricar Bautista said the Philippines has countless world-class natural wonders that can be immortalized through photography. “The 1st PAGCOR National Photography Competition intends to capture the unique sceneries and the beautiful attractions all over the archipelago. We want to show the best of the Philippine islands and why our country is a must-visit destination,” she added.

Bautista explained that the contest has four categories: People, Customs and Traditions, Nature, and Historical Landmarks/Structures. “All entries must depict the fun experienced by tourists, foreigners and locals alike while exploring or traveling the Philippines,” she cited.

For the People Category, participants may submit any portrait, human interest, genre or scenes from everyday life and the like. For Customs and Traditions, entries may include photos of various festivals, celebrations, food or local icons.

For the Nature Category, participants may send an image of scenic travel destinations, natural resources, landscape, outdoor scenery or underwater photos. For the Structures and Landmarks Category, entries can be a heritage site, historical or architectural attractions.

The 1st PAGCOR National Photography Competition is open to all nationalities provided they are residing in the Philippines during the entire period of the contest. Participants are only allowed to participate in a maximum of two categories; only one photo must be submitted per category.