Manila execs find fun in tourism pitch, not so for environment group

IT’S FUN. The new marketing campaign launched by the Department of Tourism to attract visitors to the Philippines. Shortly after the launch, the Internet was abuzz with comments lambasting and defending the new marketing campaign. Photo from www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism’s new marketing pitch is fun enough, if the Manila city councilors are to be asked; but an environmental group remains skeptical as it cites the need for the country’s tourist spots to literally clean up their act.

In a resolution passed last week, Manila councilors expressed their support for the Philippines’ new tourism campaign, particularly its slogan “It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

“Viewed from an essential vantage point, ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’ directs the tourists’ attention to the country’s most important factor and resource–the Filipino people. Filipinos are universally known as one of the happiest and warmest people on earth; and have been cited by the many travel publications, such as the Lonely Planet guidebook, as ‘among the most easygoing and ebullient people anywhere,'” the resolution, penned by Fourth District councilor DJ Bagatsing, read.

“A tourist’s vacation or holiday would not be as interesting, memorable, splendid and fun, without the Filipino people’s heartfelt hospitality and unforgettable smile,” the resolution added.

In explaining the motive behind the resolution, Bagatsing said that as Metro Manila’s capital city, Manila should take the lead in helping the tourism department achieve its goal of garnering 10 million tourists in the next five years.

“The City of Manila is a major gateway and point of interest for many foreign visitors and plays an important role in our country’s efforts to boost tourism,” Bagasting said, citing famous tourist attractions in the city such as the historic walled city of Intramuros, the Rizal Park, and even the Manila Bay, known for its glorious sunset view.

“When all sectors work cohesively for tourism, then the world will notice, and come to enjoy the beauty, hospitality and people of Manila and the Philippines. And that’s when the real fun starts,” the councilor quipped.

Meanwhile, environmental group EcoWaste Coalition wasn’t as enthusiastic unless tourism officials adhered to a “Zero Tourism Waste” policy.

The group urged the tourism department to educate establishments and facilities on ecological solid waste management.

“After the frenzied scrutiny of the official tourism catchphrase has quieted down, we urge tourism officials to turn their attention to environmental quality that can attract or keep tourists at bay,” said Roy Alvarez, President of EcoWaste Coalition, in a statement.

“Garbage-strewn streets, waterways, beaches, markets and parks, as well as toxic fumes from smoke-belching cars and burning garbage tend to drive back tourists. No tourist would want to stroll along a littered beach, swim with flotsam and in waters with high coliform counts, relax in unhygienic surroundings, gulp tainted water or breathe in unhealthy air,” Alvarez pointed out.