The Philippines’ Department of Tourism has launched a groundbreaking ad campaign called “Love the Philippines,” with a budget of P49 million. This campaign aims to entice international visitors to the country while also encouraging them to develop a deep appreciation for the diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and remarkable people, despite the challenges of poverty, corruption, and tyranny.
To truly love the Philippines and its people, we invite you to:
1. Embrace the natural beauty of the country, from the stunning seas and cool waters to the majestic rivers. As you immerse yourself in these natural wonders, remember the sacrifices made by the indigenous communities to protect their land from exploitative “development projects” disguised as progress.
2. Respect and honor the forests, mountains, and plains that make up the country’s landscapes. Join the local community in caring for and preserving these precious gifts, ensuring that future generations can enjoy their beauty and life-sustaining benefits.
3. Explore museums and historical sites to better understand the deep connections between the Philippines and your own country, as well as the roots of your family and community. Reflect on the heroism and courage of our ancestors who fought against colonial plunder and oppression.
4. Engage in meaningful conversations with farmers, scientists, indigenous peoples, industrial workers, fisherfolk, and women who are actively working for social change. Learn from their experiences, struggles, and hopes for a better future.
“Love the Philippines” is more than just a tourism agenda. It is an invitation to see the country through the lens of environmental defenders and their commitment to protecting the rights of the people and the environment. Despite the challenges faced by the Philippines, now is the perfect time to visit and witness the beauty of its people and places.
While staying in luxurious hotels and condominiums, we also encourage you to listen to the stories of the urban poor, who face demolitions to make way for high-rise buildings. Despite disheartening incidents, such as Larry Gadon’s obscene remarks toward a female journalist and his subsequent position as an anti-poverty adviser, the spirit of the Filipino people remains resilient.
You may question why you should love the Philippines when thousands lost their lives during the “war on drugs” under the previous administration and the current one refuses to cooperate with the International Criminal Court. However, we urge you to stand with the Filipino people in their pursuit of peace, truth, justice, and democracy. By protecting the land, seas, rivers, forests, mountains, flora, and fauna, we can ensure a sustainable and vibrant future for all.
So, come to the Philippines and discover the heart and soul of this resilient nation. Be captivated by its beauty, inspired by its people, and contribute to the preservation of its natural wonders and cultural heritage. Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS for more news and updates, and start planning your meaningful and transformative journey to the Philippines today.
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