Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has welcomed more than 500 Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors from the United States and Canada, in its bid to revitalize and enhance tourism ties between the country and North American countries.

Carrying the Pahiyas theme, the guests were treated to spectacular cultural performances by Bayanihan the Philippine National Folk Dance Company and Banda Kawayan at the welcome reception recently held at the Isla Ballroom of the Edsa Shangri-la Hotel.

A joint project of the DOT, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Trade and Industry, the Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) aims to promote the Philippines' top tourism spots to second and third generation Filipino-Americans.

First held in 2005, the ACGTDT is a yearly program that involves highest ranking Philippine officials in the US leading the call for Filipino-Americans and their families to visit their motherland.

According to Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, "It's a homecoming for the first generation and a discovery of roots for the young. We encourage them to come home and bring the younger generation with them to introduce our country's heritage, history and homegrown charm."

"When they go back, we hope their visit encourages them to become tourism Ambassadors of their own country," Durano added.

Corazon Jorda-Apo, Head of DOT Team North America further explained that the campaign pushes for the country's adventure, health and wellness, and entertainment tourism packages which are popular in the US market. "We will also present the country's viable areas for investments in livelihood, retirement and medical tourism businesses," mentioned Jorda-Apo.

( www.asianjournal.com )