MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed elation for the recognition it received for the “Love the Philippines” campaign during the Tourism EXPO Japan 2024.
In a news release by the DOT, it welcomed the “growing international recognition” of the campaign after receiving the Jury’s Special Award last Thursday, 26 September, in Tokyo, Japan.
“The award acknowledges the campaign’s outstanding efforts in promoting the Philippines' cultural richness, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainable tourism through a collaborative approach,” the DOT stated.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco mentioned that the jury citation is a reflection of the “passion” and “commitment” of Filipinos to showcase the best of the Philippines.
“Through the Love the Philippines campaign, we continue to highlight our rich history, stunning landscapes, and the warmth of our people, resonating with travellers globally,” Secretary Frasco shared.
Frasco also added that the recognition reflects the deepening bond between the Philippines and Japan.
“This award reflects the deepening bond between the Philippines and Japan, as we continue to share our culture, heritage, and natural beauty with our Japanese friends. The steady increase in Japanese visitors underscores this growing rapport and solidifies the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse on the global stage,” Frasco added.
The Department of Tourism’s “Love the Philippines” campaign received the Jury’s Special Award at Tourism EXPO Japan 2024 on Thursday (September 26) - Caption and photo courtesy of DOT
According to data from the DOT, as of September 26, 2024, the Philippines already welcomed 290,123 Japanese visitors, making Japan the third-largest source of tourists, trailing only South Korea and the United States.
Tourism EXPO Japan 2024, jointly organized by the Japan Association for Tourism Promotion, the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), stands as one of the most significant international travel events, featuring participants from more than 80 countries and regions, DOT emphasized.
The DOT Tokyo Office, in partnership with the Tourism Promotions Board - Philippines and the DOT Branding and Marketing Communications Office, led the Philippines’ participation in the Expo, featuring DOT-accredited hotels and resorts, major airlines, DOT-attached agencies, airport and seaport representatives, and partner tour operators, the DOT continued.
The Philippine Embassy in Japan, the DOT Tokyo Office, and the Tourism Promotions Board - Philippines, together with public and private tourism partners, led the Philippine delegation to this year’s Tourism EXPO Japan (Caption and photo courtesy of DOT)
The Jury’s Special Award follows other recent accolades for the “Love the Philippines” campaign, including its win as Asia’s Leading Tourism Campaign 2024 at the World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony and its nomination for Best Marketing Campaign at the prestigious Asia Best of the Best Awards, the DOT added.
