DOT to focus on sports tourism

DOT to focus on sports tourism

FOR the Department of Tourism (DOT), the upcoming hosting of the FIBA World Cup is a significant advantage for the country’s tourism.

The basketball tournament will take place in various sporting venues, where teams from participating countries will compete.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco expressed that basketball is a popular sport among Filipinos, so the event is expected to bring tourism profits to the country.

 “As it will not only benefit the tourism numbers for which we are aggressively pursuing, but also most importantly, provide employment and livelihood opportunities to our fellow Filipinos who will no doubt benefit from the influx of both international and domestic tourists who will be watching,” Sec. Christina Garcia-Frasco, DOT, said.

To capitalize on the event, the DOT, in partnership with the tourism consortium, has launched tour packages for those interested in watching the games.

These packages include itineraries that cover famous tourist sites across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Hotel and industry players have also come together to offer reasonable rates for those purchasing the packages.

 “You know we are in a recovery stage, right? Room rates are on the rise, but of course, we in HSMA and of course in the industry will always support the Department of Tourism,” Margie Munsayac, Hotel Sales & Marketing Association International Inc. said.

In addition to basketball, the DOT will also focus on e-sports to promote the Philippines as a top sporting destination.

Meanwhile, tourism Secretary Frasco was asked about the ongoing investigation into the production of a promotional video for the “Love the Philippines” tourism campaign.

Frasco on ‘Love the Philippines’ issue: Our statement speaks for itself

 “We’ve spoken at length already about the consequences surrounding the video on love the Philippines. And our statement speaks for itself,” according to Frasco.

The DOT had previously terminated its contract with DDB Philippines, the company responsible for the video.

It was discovered that DDB used stock footage from other countries for the Philippines’ AVP.

Despite this issue, the DOT remains committed to promoting the Philippines under the “Love the Philippines” campaign.

“[The DOT] remains fully committed to developing and promoting the Philippines as a powerhouse of natural wonders, culture and heritage, and a fount of warmth and hospitality which is a source of great love and pride for all Filipinos,” according to DOT.

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