Global Filipinos should give Philippines one more chance

MANILA, Philippines—The tourism campaign “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” hopes to compel foreign tourists and investors to take a closer look at the things that make life in this country genuinely fun and exciting. Is it the cuisine, traditions or festivals?  Is it the tourist spots or the warm, hospitable people?

Since its launch, the new campaign has enjoyed tremendous success, attracting the attention not only of foreigners but also of Filipinos themselves.  It has even ignited a trending phenomenon online where various users edit and upload their own photos based on their interpretation of the “It’s more fun” slogan.

The positive reception of the campaign reflects the Pinoys’ innate national pride, despite the stark economic and politic realities the Philippines has had to face in recent months.

Sights, sounds, smiles.  With rich natural resources, there’s more to see and explore in the Philippines such as the hidden lagoons of El Nido, the unique “underworld” of Tubbatha Reef, the perfect cone-shaped Mt. Mayon and the white, powdery sand of the famous beach in Boracay Island.

Meanwhile, in the city, one can experience firsthand the dramatic beauty of the skyline, dominated by towering skyscrapers that seem to glow at night.  The metro’s vibrant commercial attractions—mostly “gimmick spots,” bistros and bars—have become an instant hit for both local and foreign tourists.  Yes, the culture is perpetually party-ready, but the happy and cheerful aura Filipinos are known for add a warm, welcoming flavor to the afterhour scene.

Perfect, rain or shine.  The Philippines is blessed with a tropical climate.  Sunny days are best experienced from November to May while rainy days follow from the months of June to October.  The weather is easy enough to adapt to, and doesn’t get in the way of people enjoying day-to-day activities.  The climate also makes going to the beach a perfect pastime all year round.

World-class education. The country is home to a roster of colleges and universities that offer quality education at par with global standards.  Among these is the state-owned University of the Philippines, which has consistently been ranked highly by credible research institutions including Forbes.  Graduates of the Philippines’ most reputable schools are known to dominate in the fields of medicine, information technology, tourism and communication.  The country’s proficiency in the English language as well as the English curriculum being taught in schools are also a big draw for non-English-speaking foreigners who want to develop their language skills.

At your (medical) service.  Good health care is provided by a variety of hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by highly qualified medical practitioners who are considered the best in their respective fields of expertise.  Patients from around the world visit the Philippines to avail themselves of professional medical procedures and treatments at costs that are not prohibitive.

Embracing Filipino culture.  From having a hearty appetite for rice paired with dried fish to deeply honoring one’s elders and having a high regard for family—Filipino culture is unique and nuanced in every way.  And it’s a culture that is deeply embedded in the hearts and minds of Filipinos, wherever they may be in the world.

Indeed, the Philippines is worth coming back home to.  Leading Philippine mid-income developer Empire East welcomes Filipinos worldwide to see their beautiful country with new eyes and experience its rich heritage in new ways.  Through the years, Empire East has raised the standards of living with its large-scale, integrated projects in Metro Manila and the suburbs.  Get to know what Empire East can do for Filipinos looking to have more fun in the Philippines by visiting www.empireeast.com.