President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. has highlighted that beyond scenic spots and activities, the Philippines should be renowned for the warmth Filipinos extend to visitors.
This, as he expressed his support for the Department of Tourism's (DOT) "Love the Philippines" campaign, echoing its sentiments, despite recent criticisms regarding the campaign's promotional video's use of stock footage from other countries.
Marcos reaffirmed his backing for Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco. President Marcos participated in the awarding ceremony of the DOT's Tourism Champions Challenge, which took place over a year after its launch on April 5, 2023.
The event recognized the outstanding efforts of local government units (LGUs) in promoting tourism.
The top three "tourism champions" hailed from Ambaguio in Nueva Vizcaya, Tubigon in Bohol, and Isabela City in Basilan.
Following closely were Sablayan in Occidental Mindoro, Badian in Cebu, and Davao City in Davao del Sur, securing second place in the rankings.
Bolinao in Pangasinan, Silago in Southern Leyte, and Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte secured third place in the rankings.
Following closely were San Jose in Romblon, Victorias City in Negros Occidental, and Tagum City in Davao del Norte, placing fourth.
Socorro in Oriental Mindoro, the town of Panay in Capiz, and San Agustin in Surigao del Sur claimed fifth place.
Winners of the first place will receive grants worth P20 million each, while second place will be awarded P15 million, third place P10 million, fourth place P8 million, and fifth place P7 million.
These grants will be distributed by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), a DOT-attached agency.
Marcos pleasantly surprised the winners by announcing that TIEZA has added an additional P5 million fund to each winner's grant.
In his message, the President stressed the significance of Filipino hospitality, emphasizing that what truly captivates travelers are not just the picturesque sites or exciting experiences, but the genuine care and affection shown by Filipinos.
He expressed the sentiment that Filipinos are eager to demonstrate their love to strangers, thereby showcasing the nation's readiness to embrace and reciprocate love from all corners of the world.
The Tourism Champions Challenge, spearheaded by Tourism Secretary Frasco, urged LGUs to submit proposals for innovative tourism infrastructure projects aimed at promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience in tourism development.
Frasco emphasized that these proposals should enhance local destinations and communities while providing economic opportunities nationwide.
Out of 98 proposals submitted by 90 LGUs nationwide, the DOT selected 15 winners for their outstanding contributions to tourism development.
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