By Jocelyn P. Alvarez
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The country is set to become the ultimate tourist destination this year following the recent launching of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) “Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015,” an enticement for everyone to experience the lasting promise of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” as DOT aims to stamp passports of 10 million visitors to the country this year.
VPY 2015 was launched here in Zamboanga City in December 2014 with DOT-9 Regional Director Mary June Bugante leading the event.
Director Bugante said VPY 2015 is a yearlong events-driven nationwide campaign that aims to catapult the country’s international profile by banking on both traditional and non traditional tourist attractions.
DOT made it sure that travellers will not run out of reasons to visit Philippines as 2015 proves to be an exciting year for the country starting with the Papal Visit this January, Madrid Fusion-Manila in April, MTV Music Evolution in May to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit and a lot of thrilling mix events, wonders like unveiling of more historic treasures, natural wonders and memorable adventures and unique international events like the Phil. Hot Air Balloon Fiesta and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition and a whole lot more.
Bugante said VPY 2015 is a perfect year for private sectors like the airlines, hotels, resorts, restaurants, event organizers, and travel and transportation agencies to entice foreigners to visit the country.
The active lady director encouraged interested parties to register their events at www.visitph2015.com, the official website that aims to attract domestic and foreign tourist to participate in events.
"Registering in the said website will bring year-round exposure and to encourage public-private partnership as well as community participation. It is also an opportunity for LGUs to make their events known worldwide and get free promotion for the events," Bugante said.
In the case of Zamboanga City, Bugante said the local government can register the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival that highlights the feast of Our Lady of the Pillar, the most revered saint of the city.
The website is a one-stop portal for all queries about traveling to the Philippines, the must-visit destinations and events in 2015.
VPY aims to have one major occasion every quarter that would attract not only domestic but also international tourists to visit the country.
