MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Jan. 16, 2012) – Manila on Monday said its new tourism brand “It’s more fun in the Philippines” gained support from international delegates to the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) held in Manado in Indonesia.
The Philippines launched its latest tourism brand during the forum attended by some 1,600 delegates.
“ATF 2012 is a perfect platform to introduce [the campaign] to some 1,600 international delegates composed of buyers and sellers, the NTO community and media delegates,” Philippine Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. said.
The presentation was well-received during the Philippine-hosted dinner on Friday at the Sultanraja Hotel. The occasion was graced by North Sulawesi Governor Sinyo Harry Sarundajang, Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Maria Rosario Claudio Aguinaldo and Consul General Jose Burgos.
“Our strategy is simple: while other countries invite you to observe, Filipinos can promise a more heartfelt and interesting experience. Wherever you go, whatever you do in the country, it’s the Filipinos that will complete your vacation and will make your holiday unforgettable,” Jimenez said, adding the campaign singles out what no other destination can offer—and that is the Filipino people.
He said the Lonely Planet guidebook calls Filipinos “among the most easygoing and ebullient people anywhere.”
Filipinos are known for their hospitality and are already known around the world to be one of the happiest and warmest people on earth. In a survey conducted among expatriates by international bank HSBC, it was revealed that the Philippines is the 8th friendliest country for them, a government statement said.