MANILA, Jun 28 (NNN-PNA) – Philippine President, Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, yesterday, encouraged Filipinos to be “top influencers” to introduce the country as “a top-tier tourist hub.”
The Philippine Department of Tourism, unveiled its new campaign slogan “Love the Philippines” at its 50th anniversary celebration.
“The new slogan aims to enhance the overall experience of every traveller,” said Marcos, adding, it would be a “guidepost” for the Philippine tourism industry moving forward.
“I call on the entire Filipino nation, to allow yourselves to be our country’s tourism ambassadors. And if I may borrow a coined term in this age of social media, be our country’s top influencers,” Marcos said.
As a key economic driver in the country, the tourism industry’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) stood at 12.7 percent in 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the sector.
Tourism has regained its momentum after pandemic restrictions were eased. In 2022, the tourism sector contributed 6.2 percent to the GDP, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.
The Marcos administration unveiled an ambitious five-year plan, to boost the tourism sector, with a target to “positively transform” the country, famous for its world-renowned pristine beaches and tropical attractions, into a tourism powerhouse in Asia.
“This prioritisation goes deeper than merely stimulating economic activities and generating job opportunities. It springs from the genuine love that you, me, and all of us have for the Philippines,” Marcos said.– NNN-PNA
