We love Asean secretary general Le Luong Minh for saying it like it is: “Now is the time to visit the Philippines and make your presence count.”
Mr Le, who visited damaged areas in the Philippines on Nov 22 to witness the distribution of Asean aid following the destruction of Haiyan in November, made the exhortation after consultation with Philippine authorities.
“The vast majority of the country has been spared from the destruction,” says the secretary general. “I would therefore like to urge you to visit the Philippines, enjoy yourselves, and show your support for the brave people who are rebuilding their lives.”
The Philippines Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotion Board have launched a series of tours called Bangon Tours where 5% of net income from the trips will be allocated to NGOs supporting Haiyan relief and rebuilding efforts.
It’s slogan: “Your Vacation Means a Lot.”
“It is an invitation to travel within the Philippines during the holiday period, visit our fun destinations and participate in rebuilding efforts,” a TPB statement says.
The vast majority of tourism destinations have been unaffected by Haiyan, reports DOT Secretary Ramon R Jimenez Jr.
He told the Manila Bulletin on Dec 15 that “the affected areas did not happen to be touristic areas, except Coron.” Destinations such as Puerto Princess (Palawan), Bohol and Manila were not “meaningfully impacted”.
“Nothing really happened to Manila so we are going to recover very rapidly, even from Yolanda — from a touristic standpoint. When you count Bohol, the prime tourism offerings have not been affected,” he adds.
“The Philippines has always been a gem in the tourism sector in Asean.The beauty and charm of the Philippines is something you should not miss. Now is the time to visit and show your support when they need it most,” says Mr Le.
Photo: Asean secretary general Le Luong Minh
