Department of Tourism Stands Firm on Controversial Slogan: ‘Love the Philippines’

Diane Adao

July 5, 2023

• 

  On Tuesday, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced their new slogan to promote the Philippines “Love the Philippines.” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco stated that despite the controversy surrounding the slogan, it will still be utilized because there are numerous reasons to love the country. 

  Despite cutting ties with the advertising agency responsible for the concept due to a video featuring shots from other countries, the DOT appears to be sticking with the “Love the Philippines” slogan. During a forum on July 5, Secretary Frasco did not directly address the issue in front of tourism executives, but she consistently incorporated the controversial slogan into her speech. 

  Secretary Frasco highlighted the deep affection Filipinos and foreigners have for the Philippines, pointing to the robust numbers revealed by the Philippine Statistics Authority. She emphasized that tourism’s contribution to the gross domestic product increased by 6.2% in 2022, surpassing the 5.2% recorded in 2021 and 5.1% in 2020. 

  Secretary Frasco proclaimed that the Philippines is ready to share the Filipino story with the world, asserting that there are countless reasons to love the country. 

• COMMENTS