It is indeed “more fun in the Philippines,” proven by the latest figures of the Department of Tourism (DOT) showing an increase in foreign tourist arrivals in the country.
DOT recorded 1.27 million foreign tourist arrivals from January to March 2013, which is an increase of more than ten percent from the 1.15 million documented in the same period last year.
Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito Bengzon noted that for the first time, in three consecutive months in the first quarter of the year, the country had more than 400,000 visitors.
Bengzon said that this is an indication that the tourism industry in the Philippines is moving full speed ahead with the help of the great momentum created by the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” campaign.
He also cited the friendly and hospitable people of the country which are considered as the Philippines’ greatest asset in promoting tourism in the country.
Bengzon mention the world-class Filipino talents and personalities like Manny Pacquiao, Leah Salonga, Jessica Sanchez and Apl.d.ap also are of great help in presenting the country become more visible as a destination in other countries abroad.
He added that factors such as promo packages, cheaper accommodation and the increase in the number of seats and flights going to the Philippines helped entice tourists and boost tourism records.
DOT has set a target of 5.5 million foreign tourists in 2013 and is positive in reaching its target with the rate it showed just in the first quarter of the year.
