State visits ‘prove PH is safe place’ for travelers

Aside from reaping investments, state visits of world leaders are positive reinforcements that a destination is safe for tourists, a tourism stakeholder said.

Cebu Association of Tour Operators president Edilberto Mendoza Jr. believes the recent visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to the Philippines has not only assured the country of business opportunities, but also showcased the Philippines as a safe destination for foreign tourists, amid the domestic and international criticism faced by President Rodrigo Duterte on his war on drugs.

“The Japanese, for instance, look up to their leaders. I believe Prime Minister Abe’s recent visit to the country just shows that we are ready to welcome more tourists and that we are a safe destination,” said Mendoza.

Estimated tourism receipts from Japan for October stood at P1.24 billion. Arrivals from this country from January to October reached 448,755.

Abe is the first head of state to visit the Philippines after Duterte won the May 2016 national elections. The Prime Minister ended his trip pledging $ 8.7 billion worth of business opportunities and private investments.

Sidelights

Although, Abe’s state visit tackles issues like counter-terrorism, drug rehabilitation projects and maritime concerns, his going around Manila and Davao cities provides a glimpse of what the Philippines is like from the perspective of a world leader.

This is the same benefit the Philippines is reaping as it hosts this year’s Miss Universe beauty pageant, said Mendoza.

“It is a positive reinforcement for the country— that we have a good tourism climate, warm and hospitable people, authentic tourism products and we are a safe destination,” he said.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo said the beauty pageant, participated in by 86 candidates, is an avenue to provide a sneak- peak of the country’s tourism attractions, as well as promote the country as a safe destination for foreign tourists to visit.

The candidates have visited some of the country’s best tourism destinations like Baguio, Batangas, Cebu, Davao, Vigan and Boracay.