he Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) just launched its new promotional campaign for 2012 It's more fun in the Philippines. amid much fanfare and hype. But glitzy ad campaigns and slogans aside, now might not be the right time to promote tourism in the country. The Philippines is broken and we need to first fix it before we invite foreign tourists over. For starters: our major cities are dirty—in Metro Manila even the air is dirty; children begging in the streets are everywhere; traffic around the metropolis moves at a snail’s pace over potholed roads; and maniacal Filipino drivers cut in and out of traffic without so much as a scintilla of courtesy or discipline. Away from the cities, there are one-too-many armed groups, that extort money from anyone who has it, while passing themselves off as revolutionaries—the Abu Sayyaf, the NPA, the MILF, and the MNLF. These groups look at foreigners and balikbayans and see nothing but dollar signs. Squatter areas are a staple in most large cities. You see vast tracts of squatter communities along the banks of most waterways in Metro Manila. These communities have no sewage system so people simply defecate and throw all their garbage in the river. During the Martial Law years, Imelda Marcos in her typical wacky fashion would erect temporary walls around the perimeter of these places to hide them from view, then she would have images of pretty houses painted on those walls so her foreign guests or visiting heads of state would never see those blighted areas of the city. At an ever increasing level, the Philippines is experiencing the destructive effects of overpopulation, thanks to previous administrations that were more concerned with lining their own pockets than with addressing the issue, and the Catholic Church whose allegiance is—and has always been—first and foremost to the Vatican and its own coffers, instead of to the Filipino people. John B. Calhoun a an American ecologist and research psychologist who conducted trailblazing research during the sixties and seventies for the USA’s National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) on the effects of overpopulation, discovered that colonies of mice began showing marked changes in their social and personal behavior when the population density of their colony grew beyond a certain point. In the Philippines, overpopulation has also brought marked changes in its people’s character. Filipinos seem lost the gentility that once characterized their culture. They’ve become less friendly and withdrawn, rarely bothering to interact with people they do not know. And who can blame them. The ordinary working man or woman has to get up well before sunrise to jostle with hundreds of other harassed commuters for a cramped seat in a bus or jeepney to get to work by eight AM. At the end of their workday, it’s the same exhausting commute back home where they are lucky to arrive before midnight. And at month’s end, their take-home pay is a pittance compared to what workers in other countries make. Call a taxi and you will likely encounter rude and harassed cab drivers who pick and choose passengers then demand that they be paid more than what their taxi meter indicates.. Times are extremely tough for the vast majority of Filipinos and everywhere scams and trickery abound. A week before the DOT launched its new tourism campaign; the Abu Sayyaf released a video of their captive, Warren Richard Rodwell, an Australian who chose to retire in the Philippines. In the video, Rodwell appearing pale and drawn states that his captors are demanding a $2 million ransom for his release. That video has essentially nullified the million dollar tourist campaign the government has just launched. Sadly, the abduction of Rodwell is not an isolated incident but only the latest in a string of incidents involving foreigners being abducted or killed in the Philippines. And the images of the August, 2010 incident where a busload of Hong Kong tourists were needlessly massacred in front of TV cameras is still too fresh in the minds of people across Asia and the rest of the world. So given where the Philippines stands today, the millions of dollars the government spends on tourism promotion will never generate the kind of returns it might otherwise produce were the Philippines not in the sorry state it is in. So maybe the country should save that money and concentrate instead on fixing its myriad problems first. What to do? Here are our suggestions: the Philippines must first have to put a stop to its runaway population growth; each and every child should be given a good education all the way through college, subsidized by the government; insurgencies have to be crushed so peace as well as progress can come to the hinterlands; major cities have to be depopulated and far-flung areas of the country developed; sensible infrastructure projects must be undertaken in cities and towns all over the country; the building of good roads and bridges, and an efficient mass transportation must be prioritized so trade and commerce can flourish everywhere. All that could take up to a hundred years, but at some point in time, our grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be smart enough and educated enough to know how to preserve as well as promote their country’s bountiful resources. Only then should the government contemplate on promoting tourism. In the decades after World War II, Japan did exactly that. Tourism was never high on their agenda then, though building a world-class country was. And today, Japan has more tourists than we can ever hope to have. Tourism should be more than just showing off a great beach here or a fancy hotel there, tourism must showcase the entire country and its people. Sadly, in that regard we are still too far from ready. Published 1/8/2012 Tell a Friend



Saved Comments Name: Raul Lacuna

City/State/Country: Vancouver, Canada

IP Address: 202.175.54.113

Comments A very well written editorial. "It's more fun in the Philippines" is probably addressed to pedophiles, dirty old men, and sex maniacs who come to the Philippines for cheap thrills. There's no fun in the Philippines for legitimate tourists, believe me. Name: Phil Researcher

City/State/Country: LA County, CA USA

IP Address: 98.119.17.19

Comments RE: Tourism slogan "It's more fun in the Philippines." I believe this slogan needs to be completely change.. In the first place many tourists would not come to that conclusion if they see the squatter areas... I still remember the Facade (French word pronounced "fas ad" which Imelda Marcos placed in Tondo.. If you come from Roxas Blvd. towards the Tondo Area you won't miss it.. It was like the Hollywood Prop of a movie..Who was she trying to deceive? The Frontage looks good but if you stop.. and see.. it is a slum area. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments Tourism could not be promoted if there is social unrest, high crime rate like kidnapping for ransom, and terrorism. On thing for sure, the governments of these potential tourists will issue travel bans. The country has to improve its infrastructure like airport facilities, roads and bridges to compete with Singapore, Thailand, HK, Malaysia and even Indonesia. The country has too much reservoir of talent that is being wasted. Many of us have left the country and became productive citizens of our adoptive countries. Name: mockingmaya

City/State/Country: taft avenue, manila

IP Address: 67.182.75.243

Comments The editorial can be underscored in a few words: Markets thrive (e.g., including tourism) when Filipino people are healthy, well-educated, prosperous, when incomes are growing (the income gap between the rich & the have-nots is not abysmal), & when injustice or corruption is muted. In other words, if employment can't be found at home, poverty persists, insurgency prevails, & migration to the economically-rich countries or well-off regions will continue to grow. You will see more educated Filipino domestic helpers in every corner of the world. A scholar once said: "I believe the time has come for higher expectations, for common goals pursued together, for an increased political will to address our common future." Name: WDC

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 64.160.96.32

Comments Educate our people to be honest then Philippines will be one of the best tourists' place. Name: JRH

City/State/Country: Montreal, Canada

IP Address: 70.80.126.10

Comments I would like to suggest something simple as our travel slogan...Travel Bargain..sunshine, sand, & surf in the Philippines. Excellent winter destinations with lots to see & do. An inexpensive getaway in Asia. Explore our 7,120 islands & unspoiled beaches with pleasant diversion & amusement all year round & decent budget accommodations or first class suite of your choice & specifications. Excellent food & smiling Filipinos to welcome you. Book early & get big discounts. Come on down. Name: marty

City/State/Country: khobar, KSA

IP Address: 166.87.190.168

Comments Philippines needs tourism.....yet despite all the needs for tourism dollars, all manila does is talk. Airports are in shambles, dirty sidewalks, the MRT is so crowded who wants to use it anymore, congested traffic in Luzon, terrible roads outside Luzon. Beaches are hard to get to...overall Philippines in the 21st century is still 50 years behind Thailand. now Vietnam will pull ahead. So you can make all your fun slogans...but until better infrastructure is built...its really tough to be a tourist in Philippines. Name: Manuel C. Diaz

City/State/Country: Montnclair CA USA

IP Address: 76.174.219.92

Comments New York has an estimated 50 million tourist a year and New York does not even have a Department of Tourism Name: Vanessa Lee

City/State/Country: Kuwait

IP Address: 62.215.228.249

Comments Our country is a land of so many wonders (pertain to nature) but It is not the innovation of the scenery alone to be considered to entice tourist to visit our country. The government should eliminate first and foremost the Abu Sayyaf and other kidnap for ransom groups whose prey are mostly foreigners. This will never go with the slogan “More fun in Philippines.” Name: Manuel C. Diaz

City/State/Country: Montclair CA USA

IP Address: 76.174.219.92

Comments To Antonio jr of Manila are you sure that the people who cooked this slogan did it for the love of country or for the love of money? How about pesos 5.8 million budget then these "smart" people came out with a copied slogan. This is a very expensive copy. The slogan of Gordon was "WoW Philippines" how many millions of Tourists did this slogan attract to our shores? What made you thing that this Chicken joy slogan more fun in the Philippines will attract more tourist when you still have the same problem lack of facilities, dirty places robbery, kidnapping peace and order is a very big question. Let us put our house in order first before we invite visitors. Name: Blue Rose

City/State/Country: Cebu City

IP Address: 112.210.53.219

Comments After reading this my heart sagged, yes there is so much truth in it. Our government should fix the many problems in our country. Taxi drivers most especially in Manila are rude and would always demand more than what would reflect in their meters. In Cebu City when a jeepney is stopped during red light, street children as young as 7 or 8 years old would fearlessly snatch necklaces, earrings or bags of passengers. Squatter problems in our country should be fixed too. When foreigners step out from their five star hotels the first thing they see are squatters. I feel so ashamed when my visitors from other countries would see squatters along the main roads in my city. Government should fix all these problems and most especially get rid of those Abu Sayyaf, MILF and the rest of rebels. Name: Rutchel

City/State/Country: Cavite

IP Address: 218.186.15.10

Comments I am so amazed and overwhelmed with this article. The way you brought the positive and negative side of our country and which is actually facts. I definitely agree 100%. I lived abroad and travelled to a few countries, and I can really see that tourism is one of the best source of income, but youre right, it is very difficult to promote our country due to the things you said. I'm very sad because we have such a beautiful country and its nature but we tend to misuse them as what Marcos said "sa ikauunlad ng bayan, disiplina ang kailangan"... Very well said. And I hope gov't focuses on that first and not corruption. All the best! Name: KALI

City/State/Country: HAWAII

IP Address: 66.91.35.33

Comments It’s more fun in the Philippines? PNL said just about everything; the problems of the country, and the difficulty of enticing tourist to come. However, there is nothing wrong with trying. Personally, I would prefer “MABUHAY PHILIPPINES” as a slogan. At least it has the originality, and mabuhay is a unique name that implies only to the Philippines. Tourism is number one industry of the State of Hawaii for many years. With just about everything there is for tourist attraction is here, however, attracting tourist to come here is not as easy as selling chicken joy. I suggest Mr. Jimenez and associates should come here and take a look what “clicks” about tourism in Hawaii. ALOHA! Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments Of the top ten (10) tourists destination in the world, two are in Asia; China and Malaysia. Of the top 10 tourist destination in Asia/Pacific, Philippines is not one of them. the top 100 countries visited by tourists, Philippines is not one of them. Name: A. Poli

City/State/Country: Anywhere

IP Address: 184.148.76.162

Comments Re: "Universal tourism to the Philippines, under P'Noy, no matter how it's dressed, will remain minuscule. Why? Because, from the the outset, his head was headed in the wrong direction. Daan Matuwid would be benefiting the country by now if he embarked on improving the country's economy, its GDP, it's infrastructures, that would bring in significant investment money from abroad; all that matters to improve the lives and livelihoods of the 95 million Pinoys.....etc.." - Agreed. Economy going south coz no projects too. Political consolidation still on the works. Once completed that's the time to recoup investment in last election's expenses. Projects to flow to political allies. Weather weather phenomenon again? Name: James

City/State/Country: Canada

IP Address: 122.55.51.254

Comments Hi, I've lived in the Philippines for over 2 years. I could not agree more with your position. When will they (the government) and Filipino's finally listen! When will they wake up? An even better question...when they do wake up what will they do? Yet another rebellion in the offing. So sad. I came to this country with the intention of starting a small business, investing in the people and hopefully living a peaceful life. I'm looking elsewhere...after 2 years I've had enough and going to some other SE Asian country where the infrastructure, culture and traditions are more friendly to foreign investment. Thank you and keep up the good work. Name: Blue Rose

City/State/Country: Cebu CIty

IP Address: 112.210.53.219

Comments @KALI: I agree ''Mabuhay Philippines'' is much more unique. And to me it does not only implies to Philippines but it sounds more classic compared to ''It's more fun in the Philippines.'' To all Filipinos, let us continue to pray for our country. Mabuhay Philippines! Name: Mangagoy

City/State/Country: Bislig

IP Address: 139.139.67.69

Comments People around the world don't need slogans to know facts about the Philippines. Hindi ba alam ng DOT na may GOOGLE, YAHOO, YEHEY... searched engines? Instead, abolish DOT and use the allocated funds to stop population growth. Ito dapat ang unahin ng mga demonyong politicians sa Pilipinas. THIS IS THE HIGHEST PRIORITY OF ALL!!! Kung puede, i-abolish din ang Catholic Church! Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments When the government entices foreigners to visit the country on a promise that tourists gonna have fun, knowingly the government is opening a can of worms. The government is opening the door to a host of problems to name a few: prostitution, spread of STDs, drug and human trafficking, and an assault on the environment. Receipts from tourism should not exceed the social and environmental costs that foreign tourism inflicts. Name: Jose Arce

City/State/Country: Tehachapi, Calif.

IP Address: 76.174.244.167

Comments The last time I visited Manila was in 1980 and don't have any plans to see it again because of the same reasons on the article it twas said. I agreed that over population, security and CORRUPTION should be address by the government and not the Catholic church. Name: vic villanueva

City/State/Country: doha, qatar

IP Address: 178.152.35.135

Comments Why not REVIVE our old name, " PHILIPPINES. THE PEARL OF THE ORIENT SEA, MABUHAY" Name: KALI

City/State/Country: HAWAII

IP Address: 66.91.35.33

Comments “MABUHAY PHILIPPINES”: I picture myself that as soon as I got off the plane, then, upon entering the arrival area there is that big placard or sign that says MABUHAY! That alone would really make me feel good and with joy, gave me excitement, my heart would be jumping! coz I must be in the Philippines, where else? MABUHAY is Philippines. If Mr. Jimenez change his mind, it won’t cost him a peso? I think, choosing a slogan which in effect to entice tourist to come, tourist opinion should have been solicited, (PhilNews.com regulars alone would have plenty, I bet, hehehe) then the government can choose from a whole bunch of them. Just a thought? ALOHA ! Name: Rune Notnæs

City/State/Country: Norway

IP Address: 80.212.162.214

Comments I had my first trip to Philippines last year, and the first thing that happened to me was at the airport. I was tricked to take a taxi which cost 3 times the ordinary price. That's how the Philippines welcomes its guests. And everywhere I was going, when they saw I was white the prices were turned up. But I understand now, after reading this article, that that's normal in the Philippines. I have been to Thailand many times, and I have never experienced that there. So you have a lot to do before you should welcome tourists. Name: 7gtg

City/State/Country: regnsk

IP Address: 24.89.83.99

Comments On tourism: to the Pnoy gov't, just let them come and we will accommodate them. ignore these naysayers in this forum. Or better yet, bypass Luzon (most of the (whiners here are from Luzon anyway) and get them to come to central and southern Philippines like Surigao. Name: LPif

City/State/Country: LosAngeles/Mla

IP Address: 121.1.11.38

Comments 7gtg: SabiMo: "Please resist the temptation to contradict yourself. The Philippines is the best tourists destination. No Ifs and buts."...As a Filipino, without a doubt, but I can't be dishonest to myself and the rest of the world. Who ever derides what we stand for as a culture is my enemy, but I don't condone our shortcomings as a country. I can't be proud of having a corrupt government, a polluted city, a dishonest citizen, a run away population, etc. to name a few! We have to admit that we are lagging behind the rest of the Asian tourist destinations. I wish we can be better! Tsk tsk tsk... Name: 7gtg

City/State/Country: regnsk

IP Address: 24.89.83.99

Comments Juan der pol: "Inspite of the negative article on Pinas in the current topic, the filming of Hollywood movie "Bourne Legacy" in Metro Manila, is currently on the roll...Please, be kind naman sa aming bansang Pilipinas.." Pag pasensiyahan mo na itong mga 'Philippine haters' in this forum. Wala kasing mga pera iyan pamasahe at panggastos for vacation in the Philippines. Nagbabayad pa ng mortgage iyang mga iyan. Hulugan pa sa kotse.. tuition sa mga bata sa university.. kaya hirap ang buhay sa U.S. no? Bayaan mo na lang silang mag sourgrape. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments The Philippine government could not be relying much on OFW remittances or foreign investments and the tourism industry. Sooner or later these wells will dry up. The government needs to go after those tax cheats and repeal the bank secrecy law. The government must bring those monies out. The banks have been serving as legal depository of dirty money and taxable income. If this administration in successful stripping Corona of his dark robe, sending Gloria to the slammer and sending tax evaders and plunderers to jail, I would say that faith in government has came back. Name: LATEPOCA

City/State/Country: SOMEWHERE IN TIME

IP Address: 121.1.30.222

Comments SLOGANS never help improve lives of Filipinos, What we need are good airports, good governance, good infrastructures, equal - fair justice system, government official transparency, equal opportunities to all job seekers, competent public officials and NOT MAGNANAKAWS. Name: Steve R

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 98.234.19.64

Comments There are two sides to a story including the current topic. In the past a comment was posted that talked about the extent to which Filipinos are willing to show their hospitality. During town fiestas, parents go out of their way to make sure their visitors are well feed before leaving their houses to the extent that they'll go out & borrow money to buy food for expected visitors who'll say "TAO PO". I still believe that Filipinos are very hospitable, we have it in our blood. But times change & people change - if tourists stop by the Ph, Mr DILG Robredo, be on the lookout for 'mandurokot & scammers-jail 'em all. Name: Steve R

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 98.234.19.64

Comments Continuing from there are two sides to a story, there are also two pictures to a story as shown here by PNL. These pics give a level playing field to wannabe tourists. Realistically, the editorial is true 'today'. This is a challenge that all Filipinos should accept, sort out garbage & dispose accordingly. family hygiene should include proper toileting etc. Sec of Health Ona & DILG Robredo should double their efforts. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments It is never fun to see thousands of people drowning in flash floods and children injured on the eve of New Year's Day. It is never fun to see the poverty level rise and corrupt practices rise faster. It is never fun to endure traffic congestion and suffer from extreme humidity because global warming is a racket (a total lie, a hoax). Ask MCD! Name: WDC

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 75.38.64.114

Comments If you want to invite more tourists, then Philippines should follow the international law-"human trafficking" just like the US. Any US citizen don't abide these law especially in overseas, they will be strictly prosecuted to the maximum in accordance with this law. So if you see any FIL/AMS violating this law in the Philippines just take pictures of them and send them to the FBI or to the US embassy so that they will be prosecuted when they come home here in the US. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments Southeast Asia sample tourist arrival stats most to least: > (1). Malaysia = 22,052,000, (2). Thailand = 14,536.000, (3). Singapore = 7,778,000, (4). Indonesia = 6,234,000, (5). Vietnam + 4,254,000, (6). Philippines = 3,139,000, (7). Cambodia = 2,001,000, (7). Laos = 1,295,000. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments Universal tourism to the Philippines, under P'Noy, no matter how it's dressed, will remain minuscule. Why? Because, from the the outset, his head was headed in the wrong direction. Daan Matuwid would be benefiting the country by now if he embarked on improving the country's economy, its GDP, it's infrastructures, that would bring in significant investment money from abroad; all that matters to improve the lives and livelihoods of the 95 million Pinoys. These would help immensely in enticing universal tourism money/jobs. How is personal vendetta going to improve/upgrade/elevate/put food on Deo's table? Walang wang wang has only got less than 4.5 years left of his term, and it's buried deep in hateful personal vendetta, consuming him like spontaneous combustion. Name: EASTERN RIZALKID

City/State/Country: Eastern Rizal, Phils

IP Address: 121.54.46.9

Comments With so many murders going on daily in our Bayang Magiliw, the apt slogan instead of "IT'S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES!" should be "IT'S MORE GUNS IN THE PHILIPPINES!". Di ba? Name: mockingmaya

City/State/Country: taft avenue, manila

IP Address: 67.182.75.243

Comments I fell in love with the beautiful places in Puerto Princesa, Palawan when I was a young serviceman: El Nido, Pirates Bay, Liminangkong Island & so on. I think some Chinese businessmen were able to buy some of virgin forests or islands to be their private sport escapade or hunting grounds in Palawan. The price of an endangered specie was just a gallon of diesel oil many years ago. Fishermen should be arrested for selling parrots, monkeys, eagles & other endangered species. I do believe that it's a no brainer on the part of DOT to sell squatters area as a tourist attraction. Name: 7gtg

City/State/Country: regnsk

IP Address: 24.89.83.99

Comments This is where I support PNOY's move on this tourism. Of course it is expected from the negative posters in this Forum to oppose any move towards the positive. Let the tourists come in and at the same time fix the problems along the way. Microsoft did not wait until they had windows7, to release their Operating system. The started with the crapiest of system (compared to Apple's) and improved it along the way. Nike's slogan: "Just do it". applies to this. PNOY, 'Just do it', and blast these nay sayers in this forum out the window. Name: LPiF

City/State/Country: LosAngeles/Mla

IP Address: 121.1.11.38

Comments PHILIPPINES HERE I COME! Tourist PH can only encourage are those who used to live here and the ones who are willing to take the risk! Truthfully, this country can become great (again?) only if we the people are willing to lead, to stand, to suffer and be UNITED! We need to learn to LOVE one another the way God has commanded us to! Name: JRH

City/State/Country: Montreal, Canada

IP Address: 70.80.126.10

Comments I would like to suggest something simple as our travel slogan...Travel Bargain..sunshine, sand, & surf in the Philippines. Excellent winter destinations with lots to see & do. An inexpensive getaway in Asia. Explore our 7,120 islands & unspoiled beaches with pleasant diversion & amusement all year round & decent budget accommodations or first class suite of your choice & specifications. Excellent food & smiling Filipinos to welcome you. Book early & get big discounts. Come on down. Name: Manuel C. Diaz

City/State/Country: Montclair CA USA

IP Address: 76.174.219.92

Comments Prostitution and Tourism goes hand in hand in the Philippines this must be the reason why this new DOT Secretary promoter of Jollibee's Chicken joy used this COPIED slogan "MORE FUN" IN THE PHILIPPINES. Name: Edward

City/State/Country: Angeles City

IP Address: 98.160.174.84

Comments The fact is most come to the PI for the women. People other than these men are Filipinos who still have mom and pop around. But once they're gone the attachment to the PI is over. Most of you grew up poor in the PI and memories growing up center around family. No FilAm is going to spend a huge amount of money going back to see where they went to school or where they played ball. I doubt if most places still exist anyway. You go where you can see and do things, Disneyland or DisneyWorld the national parks, vacation centers, you fish or golf. You visit children, grandchildren in New York, Texas, California. The only tourist that come and go in the PI are old GIs like myself. I come to see the mountains and play in the valleys and I never have to leave Field Ave. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments 6 Decades old Swiss ad, "IT'S MORE FUN IN...", does not to 'Pinas foreign tourists bring. That's directed to the locals' consumption. The international moneyed tourist scene is much too sophisticated. Like you and me, or better, even kids search the web, blog forums, exchanging information up to their satisfaction, and will not be fooled. If you have a superb restaurant (in all facets), the word gets around fast. Vice versa. If the slogan is endorsement of ambassador Thomas and EDWARD experience, then, 'Pinas Dept of Foreign Affairs is on track, and would do well to accompany the ad with bare shaking booties. Name: lee buyagan

City/State/Country: ksa

IP Address: 94.97.112.79

Comments To P-Noy and Mayor Lim: Hindi po ba puwedeng Irelocate na yung mga squatters na nasa sentro ng ka-Maynilahan para naman magandang tignan yung kapaligiran diyan for the sake of turismo. Pabalik-balik na sa pagka mayor eh wala pa ring nagagawa sa mga squatters. Mayor Lim huwag na nating antayin na tagurian ng ibang bansa ang Kamaynilaan ng "The Largest Septic Tank In The World". Name: GOPALAKRISHAN RAMAMURTHY

City/State/Country: CHENNAI, INDIA

IP Address: 122.174.0.226

Comments Yes nice article, brings out the true picture of the state now. There's a lot to be done - There are no known travel agents in Manila to arrange tours in groups. Only hotel arrange cabs -which is costly for normal tourists from Asia. Hope things will change-- gods mercy - (politicians will) Name: James

City/State/Country: Philippines

IP Address: 112.198.82.173

Comments Reality will tell us that Muslim terrorists such as Abu Sayyaf have long been the issue in the past including your never ending criticism of squatters, and yet tourists still come to Philippines. The Phil is still preferred place by even our Asian neighbors such as Koreans and even Middle Eastern Nations, who allowed their children to study here. Poverty, crimes, prostitution, and over population is a worldwide problem! and not limited to Pinas! Name: As I See It

City/State/Country: Cebu City/SD,CA

IP Address: 68.8.59.197

Comments MCD suggested, "why not abolish the Dept. of Tourism this dept. was created by Marcos the Kelptocrat to accommodate his stooge Aspiras if I am not mistaken this guy was the first minister of this useless office." Sir MCD , I beg not to agree with your suggestion. Almost every country (except Somalia and war-torn countries in Africa) are promoting and advertising to sell their countries to foreign visitors. Hence they have their own Tourism offices. Tourism office in the Phil. dates back in 1956 when Phil. Congress created Board of Travel & Tourist Industry. It was in '73 that Macoy elevated it into a cabinet level dept. Prior to that the Martial Law's PD#1 merged Tourism with Trade to become Dept. of Trade $ Tourism. Name: KALI

City/State/Country: HAWAII

IP Address: 66.91.35.33

Comments It’s more fun in the Philippines: Being an avid sport fishing enthusiast, I can vouch that Philippines could be one of the best country in world to attract tourist who prefer sport fishing. Hawaii is composed of only seven Islands but promotes worldwide sport fishing competition. Charter boats are plentiful due to tourist wants the thrill of fighting big fish mano-a-mano. Philippines having over 7000 Islands and with more variety of fish than any country in the world has the potential of surpassing other countries that thrives on fishing as a tourist attraction. Japanese pays over 40,000 pesos a kilo for a first class Yellow fin Tuna, and we have that South of Mindanao. I think the government should look into this potential tourist attraction. I want to fish there with friends from here. Name: Steve R

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 98.234.19.64

Comments Tourism is likely to decline 'just a bit' if Chief Justice Corona will not resign before the trial begins & be impeached. Most tourists keep abreast of world news & may scratch PH off their list to visit if news has it tha the SC Justice was impeached - which is a sign of lawlessness. Not advocating that tourism be one of the reason not to impeach. In my view, his resignation is a sign of courageousness & will be praised by many Filipinos as it will surely prevent a "black mark" in the history of the PH. A resignation from the Chief Justice will SURELY add to his dignified legacy. NO WHAT IF, & the Filipino people deserve nothing less. Name: Vanessa Lee

City/State/Country: Kuwait

IP Address: 62.215.228.249

Comments It will take many more years to totally clean up the slums in Metro Manila. In Japan, they have a huge place for slums in Kamagasaki where squatters live together. If our government can adopt the same system I believe it is a great change instead they are living in one place or another. And once the places are vacated, they can create additional beautification of environment. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments MCD concluded "New York has an estimated 50 million tourist a year and New York does not even have a Department of Tourism." HE IS DAMN RIGHT. The state of NY leaves the matter of promoting tourism through private businesses like the tour operators. I guess Department of Tourism in the Philippines did not exist prior to the Marcos era. Promoting the country was by word- of -mouth. Western countries have no idea even where Philippines is. The government had the resources but local tour operators did not. A time must come when tour operators must be left alone to promote tourism in the country.The government however must do its share in improving the infrastructure and ensuring tourist's safety. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments On 2nd glance, IT'S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES is apt business ad for what it is marketing, that goes without saying. What exactly is more fun in the Philippines? Ambassador Thomas and Edward will tell you. Don't bother confirming with the Dept of Tourism (DOT). Indignant DOT would deny out loud, but will give you a couple of winks. 7gtg said, "Just do it." Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments It is appropriate for the government to focus on tourism. This is a 60+ million tourist market in Southeast Asia and it is growing at around 8 to 10% annually. Indonesia made $6.3 billion in tourists' receipts; PH made a third of that. In promoting tourism the, country has to deal with the rise in prostitution (the highest paid job among Asian women) and the spread of AIDS. Those are the blowbacks. Name: As I See It

City/State/Country: Cebu City/SD,CA

IP Address: 68.8.59.197

Comments MCD without his checking his facts, recklessly stated, "New York has an estimated 50 million tourists a year and NY does not even have a Department of Tourism." DEAD WRONG! On the contrary the city has a very active tourism office, called NYC & Company. This office is the official destination marketing organization for the City of NY. Aside from spearheading city's tourism efforts it is designated as the official convention and visitors bureau. To bolster its efforts the NYC & Co. has 14 offices in coun-tries scattered in Europe, So. America, and Asia. Name: Juander Pol

City/State/Country: Manila, Pilipinas

IP Address: 122.52.158.122

Comments The current article/topic actually gives MORE FUN to Philippines Haters; as they keep on pouring criticism after criticism; Hindi na sila nagsawa...at ayaw makita ang katotohanan na dagsa pa rin ang mga torista sa Pilipinas. Name: LPiF

City/State/Country: LosAngeles/Mla

IP Address: 121.1.11.38

Comments 7gtg: "Someone from Culiculifornia: "Whoever thought of this slogan must be really out of their mind. How can it be ...." ITS MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES" When there is more disaster going blah blah blah.." You people just don't get it. IT is more Fun in the Philippines because it is home.""...YES, HOME is the right word. That is true FILIPINO! Any man who says he is a FILIPINO, but something else also, isn't a FILIPNO at all. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments It's a Southeast Asian (ASEAN) competition as to which country in this corner of the world is the best destination for tourists in the market for sex recreation; hence they adopted PHL DOT slogan, "It's More Fun in the Philippines.." PHL Department of Tourism is right on. So, come on fellas, seniors.. and don't forget your Viagra Edward/Deo. Name: Phil Researcher

City/State/Country: LA County, Ca USA

IP Address: 98.119.17.19

Comments RE: On your editorial you mentioned depopulation of cities where there are a lot of people... That is a very good proposal but it won't happen because the "informal settlers" (I don't know who coined that phrase) but it is better to call squatters.. squatters because these people are being used as voters by the politicians in the cities..Do you not wonder why there are so many squatters in Quezon City, Manila, Pasay, Caloocan etc.. these are voters who can swing an election result. Name: LPiF

City/State/Country: LosAngeles/Mla

IP Address: 121.1.11.38

Comments Manuel C. Diaz: YourPost; "How about pesos 5.8 million budget then these "smart" people came out with a copied slogan. This is a very expensive copy."...According to some sources, the line has been used before by the Swiss government. "WOW Philippines" sounded more inviting and encouraging! If the slogan is not copyrighted can't we change to spare us from being a copycat? That is $131,000 plagiarism! Tsk tsk tsk... Name: George

City/State/Country: USA

IP Address: 71.139.3.30

Comments The copied slogan of tourism shows only the lack of originality in the Philippines, everything puro gaya gaya, Name: john cruz

City/State/Country: usa

IP Address: 99.147.67.129

Comments Positive and constructive criticisms are welcome, what matters is at the end of the day we move forward, negative attitudes will get us nowhere. Like all countries in the world may pangit at maganda, good and bad, why do we focus too much on the bad/pangit. Just by reading the newspaper and watching TV 99% negative na, alam na ng buong mundo ang "dirty linen" natin, our own media made sure of that plus foreign press. Its the duty of the Department of Tourism to show to the world our "good side" and us Filipinos as good ambassadors ng Pilipinas, slogan palang may "crab mentality" na. ONLY THE OPTIMISTS CAN MOVE OUR COUNTRY FORWARD FOR THEY HAVE ALREADY SEEN (A BRIGHTER) THE FUTURE. Name: mockingmaya

City/State/Country: taft avenue, manila

IP Address: 67.182.75.243

Comments I do agree with Deo that Justice Corona's condominium is an evidence of graft & corruption. And I also agree with Phil. Researcher that "strict liability" is not only the basis for Justice Corona's conviction, removal & possible jail time. It may be a fact that Justice Corona is a symbol of corruption in the Supreme Court; he's considered as a walking dysfunctional Canon of Judicial Ethics. The Filipino people must learn how to utilize the power of their votes wisely. Please support President Aquino's administration in cleaning up the government: the Supreme Court, BIR, Immigration (terrorists & Communist Chinese immigrants or "sitting-fence," spies, & drug mules must be executed or deported.) The Philippine Republic must be tough on crimes if you want tourism to thrive. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments When a country promotes tourism it also promotes prostitution and invites sexually transmitted diseases. Tourism cannot discriminate against sex seeking male tourists, cocaine snorting tourists, and minor snatching pedophiles. People say that money is evil. Who does not fall in love with Benjamins (slang for $100 in US) or chaopiao (in Chinese)? Ask Gloria. Name: WDC

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 66.122.12.135

Comments Clean-up those squatters and give them a decent place to live if you want to attract more tourists. These places are roots of crimes as everybody knows and if we allow to continue them to grow, Philippines will lose millions of dollars from those people who want to visit our country. Pres Noynoy can do it and also a good investment. The proceeds that the Philippines can make from these tourists can be pumped back to those displaced families. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments If I were with the administration promoting tourism to other countries, I would suggest to the secretary the slogan: "Travel light to the Philippines. Return with a heavy baggage of memories." Name: indoy

City/State/Country: inday

IP Address: 99.91.221.15

Comments What's fun in the Philippines for example: airport na mabaho, toilet na marumi, mga public restroom na di tabo at balde pa rin ang gamit, bukod sa marumi at mabaho, bastos na mga empleyedo ng gobyerno at maraming marami paaaaa........ Name: Phil Researcher

City/State/Country: LA County, CA USA

IP Address: 98.119.17.19

Comments RE: Your Editorial on Tourism..comparing the PH to Japan. It is usually an error to compare the PI to Japan..in 1905 when the PI was annexed by the USA as part of their "holdings"...Japan had already defeated Russia in a great battle at Sea...in short Japan was already a world power 106 years ago, when the PH had only a handful of people considered "Illustrados"..Remember Spain was in our country in mid 1500 but there was no public school system..It was the Americans who introduced the Public school when they took over in 1899. Name: 1 UP

City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY

IP Address: 74.101.61.3

Comments I am not against foreign tourism but rather I am concern of its blowback. While it is true that foreign tourism is a rich source of government revenue (and good for the balance sheet), it is also the bane to the culture, to the health, to the tranquility and to the innocence of its people. Western tourists brought dreaded diseases, middle easterners exported terrorism, cocaine growers in Asian and South American countries created mules out of the locals. Sexual practices and gender preferences were unheard of. Sex practices were predictable and gays wear shirts and pants but never bras and stiletto shoes! Name: LATEPOCA

City/State/Country: SOMEWHERE IN TIME

IP Address: 121.1.30.222

Comments PROMOTE the Philippines through a SAFE, SECURE, AND SOUNDS STREETS whenever tourist goes day and night.....come on guys and face the realities of what we are in on these trying days.... Name: 7gtg

City/State/Country: regnsk

IP Address: 24.89.83.99

Comments 222 lange: "Sleepy towns come alive if transformed into a tourist's spot. Some unfortunate ones however catch AIDS. And children are never shielded from the probing eyes of pedophiles..." The alternative (the one you are implying) is to do nothing. To leave the Philippines as it is. Which is a dubious argument bec. it is like you are against any move towards progress that the Philippines try to take. your 'Children are never shielded..' is a faulty statement. You have to prove it to us. like go to the Philippines and try to abuse a child. see if you don't go to jail. And Philippine jails are not the best destination there is - unless you end up in that jail in Cebu where you get to learn to dance. Name: Steve R

City/State/Country: California

IP Address: 98.234.19.64

Comments Tonyo & Poli: Tourism should go up a bit if they read this excerpt: "EO3 revoking EO 883 giving automatic promotion of government lawyers to career executive service officer (Cesco) III rank" Be informed that it was CGMA who ordered EO883 that will not only give automatic promotion but automatic increase in pay, maybe so the lawyers can draft loopholes for then PGMA to evade BIR & prevent lawyers with auto promo to become whistle blowers. Prospective tourists will view EO3 as an Admin that is mindful of the law. CGMA's paper on economy was disputed by her former professor. Name: Edward

City/State/Country: Angeles City

IP Address: 98.160.174.84

Comments 1UP you said, "when a country promotes tourism it also promotes prostitution". If it's the PI yes, but for other countries no. Some countries have a great deal to offer. I would bet 99% of tourists come to the US to do and see things. Again I would be willing to bet up to 75% of tourists come to the PI to sleep with your women. The country supplies what it has, it uses what it has to lure people to come. Name: Edward

City/State/Country: Angeles City

IP Address: 98.160.174.84

Comments Reading these post for the last few days something struck me. Most of you don't want people from other countries visiting the Philippines. It's because your ashamed. You know others will see you Filipinos like you really are. Dirty, with your peeing and spiting and the throwing of trash everywhere. How discourteous all of you are. Not just in driving but in everyday simple things, like waiting your turn in line. Your selling of women. I wonder sometimes how did you people develop into what you are. Name: GFJBHEDF

City/State/Country: Hercules

IP Address: 67.188.19.40

Comments Dept of Tourism might really be right on. Surely, DOT did its home work, and Philippines is the cheapest. Meaning, low budget tourists can have a good time too in the Philippines. Eh mamasita? Name: As I See It

City/State/Country: Cebu City/SD,CA

IP Address: 68.8.59.197

Comments To : Ladron MCD, whatever it is, as long as it serves the OFFICIAL function of promoting, advertising, marketing or selling New York to tourists local and foreign! We are not talking about whether cabinet level or not. Ayaw suway lusot bay, di ka kalusot, ayaw pataka suwat nga wa ka kahibawo. Ang NY or SF dili pareha sa Manila nga may tourism dept., unya should be cabinet level. Please comprehend very carefully. I'm just reacting your previous post that NY does not need tourism office to promote NY to visitors! Ayaw gamiti paliko-liko bay! Name: 7gtg

City/State/Country: regnsk

IP Address: 24.89.83.99

Comments LPIF: "Manila is the worst city in PH in my opinion. The DPW are lazy and negligent. If you are new to the city even equipped with a map finding an address is like looking for a needle in a haystack. .." Possible ring wala lang tayong budget for entire family vacation this year... lol. Just keep the negative wrong opinion to yourself because 7gtg is going home for vacation.. :).