The Department of Tourism (DOT) is offering incentives to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and balikbayans (returning Filipinos) who can bring home with them relatives, friends or acquaintances to the Philippines.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the move is part of the government's efforts to boost the tourism industry.
Frasco said the “Bisita, Be my Guest Program” that she is promoting is not the new tourism slogan that they are carrying right now.
“This is not the new tourism slogan of the Philippines as some has misrepresented. Rather, this is a guest incentive program,” she uttered.
According to Frasco, they will be offering incentives to compensate the OFWs and returning Filipinos who can bring home with them at least one or two companions when going back to the country.
She said this will may bring more tourists and travelers visiting the country, adding, “This is intended to invite and benefit OFWs that bring home a relative or a friend to the Philippines, with raffle prizes, discounts, and privilege for them as they tour around the country.”
With regard to the new tourism slogan, Frasco said, the “Bisita, Be My Guest” is presently under review in the hopes that it may positively evolve and reflects the strength and the richness of Filipino identity as a ‘Filipino Brand’.
Frasco also noted herself as being a listening secretary and ending her letter, saying, “I welcome all your comments and opinions, and I am learning from it. I value your voice because after all, we are all stakeholders in the success of tourism and of our country."