The new campaign, More Fun Awaits, focuses on the DOT’s preparations during the pandemic while tourism was put on hold. The campaign features some exciting destinations in the Philippines, starting with those ready to welcome local tourists, as the minimum required health and safety protocols are already in place.
More Fun Awaits also includes new tourism products and itineraries developed by the DOT, with the private tourism sector and local government units (LGUs), based on travelers’ preferences in the new normal, namely outdoor activities well-ventilated areas.
Aside from those sun-and-beach destinations that the Philippines are known for, the campaign spotlights bike tours, diving expeditions, farm, and food tourism itineraries, hiking, trekking, outdoor museums, historical and cultural tours, and more.
According to Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, the campaign “will sustain the presence of the Philippines as a tourist destination amidst the pandemic, while getting foreign travelers excited for what’s in store for them once borders for tourism reopen.”
The newly launched website contains breathtaking videos, articles, and infographics to entice tourists back to the Philippines once travel restrictions in Asia are lifted.
It will also feature a crowd-sourced campaign inviting Filipinos to become tour guides in their hometown, either by posting virtual tours on social media or sharing photos of their best recommendations of sights, activities, or culinary specialties. Posts must include the hashtag #MoreFunAwaits, and those selected will be featured on DOT’s social media platforms.
Last but not least, the campaign also highlights many tourism employees who have contributed to the recovery of this vital industry, reminding us all that tourism is not merely about travel; it is also about the livelihood of local lives and support for those affected by COVID-19.
“Travel is more than just a personal experience. At the heart of tourism are the workers and communities who make the experience possible,” said Secretary Puyat, adding that this spotlight on the preparations made by DOT also boosts anticipation for the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, to be hosted by the Philippines.
Puyat further explained that through the campaign, “we want to communicate that the Philippines prioritizes the safety and well-being of visitors, as many of our tourism establishments are compliant with global safety standards, and a large percentage of our tourism workers are already vaccinated.”
Indeed, the vaccination process of all tourism workers is ongoing, especially in significant tourism areas; in the capital region, almost 100% of tourism employees in DOT-accredited hotels are fully vaccinated, and 94% of workers in accredited restaurants. Nationwide, the current rate of vaccinated tourism employees is around 51%.
