'Instantly appealing': Gordon expresses support for new PH tourism slogan
Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gordon expressed his support for the new Philippine tourism slogan, “Love the Philippines.”
PH Red Cross Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon (Manila Bulletin file)
Gordon, who popularized "Wow Philippines" as DOT chief from 2001 to 2004, finds the new tourism slogan "instantly appealing." However, he emphasized that the success of Philippine tourism is dependent on the whole experience that tourists have while they are in the Philippines. "It is catchy and easy to recall! Connects easily with the long spelling of the Philippines. It also serves as a double-meaning call for Filipinos to love the country because we are well endowed with natural beauty and sights, and people share excellent traits such as being welcoming, happy, and kind," Gordon said in a statement on June 28. He noted that the slogan will be meaningful if land, air, and port infrastructure are continuously improved for pleasant access, and if all of our people continue to be trustworthy, dependable, and friendly to all people, both foreign and domestic. He also emphasized that the product itself is the most important aspect—little details such as the cleanliness of terminals and the integrity of tourism employees are also essential. While congratulating the DOT on its 50th anniversary event, where its new slogan was unveiled, Gordon urged Filipinos to "act like the secretary of tourism" by being good stewards of the nation, as he believes that this thinking will lead to a stronger tourism industry. *(Rhowen Del Rosario)*
PH Red Cross Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon (Manila Bulletin file)
Gordon, who popularized "Wow Philippines" as DOT chief from 2001 to 2004, finds the new tourism slogan "instantly appealing." However, he emphasized that the success of Philippine tourism is dependent on the whole experience that tourists have while they are in the Philippines. "It is catchy and easy to recall! Connects easily with the long spelling of the Philippines. It also serves as a double-meaning call for Filipinos to love the country because we are well endowed with natural beauty and sights, and people share excellent traits such as being welcoming, happy, and kind," Gordon said in a statement on June 28. He noted that the slogan will be meaningful if land, air, and port infrastructure are continuously improved for pleasant access, and if all of our people continue to be trustworthy, dependable, and friendly to all people, both foreign and domestic. He also emphasized that the product itself is the most important aspect—little details such as the cleanliness of terminals and the integrity of tourism employees are also essential. While congratulating the DOT on its 50th anniversary event, where its new slogan was unveiled, Gordon urged Filipinos to "act like the secretary of tourism" by being good stewards of the nation, as he believes that this thinking will lead to a stronger tourism industry. *(Rhowen Del Rosario)*