28 February 2013 - "A one-of-a-kind fun vacation in the Philippines." This was the value proposition of Philippine Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan as he launched in Canada the 8th Ambassadors, Consuls General and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) to Philippines in cooperation with the Department of Tourism's New York Office.

At back-to-back presentations at the Official Residence in Ottawa and at the FAMAS Community Center in Montreal on February 27 and 28, respectively, Ambassador Gatan promoted the ACGTDT as a vehicle to deepen appreciation of the Philippines' rich cultural heritage and tourism destinations.

The Ambassador also made a pitch for investments in Philippine tourism projects while impressing upon his Filipino and Canadian audience the impact of tourism on job creation and its multiplier effects.

Covering parts of eastern Canada, Ms. Mitchelle Cristalle T. Dy, Officer In Charge of the Philippine Tourism Center in New York, oriented prospective participants on the 8th ACGTDT program, basic package inclusions and optional tours taking place from 9 to 15 July 2013. Her presentation focused on the high points of the tour as well as the procedure for registration.

Testimonials from Mr. Jean Jacques Lefuel of Montreal-based Tours Hai International and Mrs. Nora Arriola, President of the Philippine Independence Committee in the Ottawa Valley (PICOV) rounded out the ACGTDT launch events.

"The Philippines is too big a country to visit for just 10 days. The country has many natural assets, bar none. Getting to different places is in itself an exciting experience," Mr. Lefuel enthused. He also spoke approvingly of the Philippines' pristine waters, especially in Boracay and Palawan, as well as courteous Filipino airline and hospitality staff.

For her part, Mrs. Arriola gave a laudatory review of the 3rd ACGTDT in 2008 which she and her husband Danny adjudged a most memorable and worthwhile trip. "Part of the unique experience is being treated like a VIP throughout the tour. I highly recommend this program to all of you," she told the audience.

Until the June 2 registration deadline, the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver will actively promote the 8th ACGTDT with the help of Honorary Consulates General across Canada.

Interested parties are advised to call the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate General in their area for details of the tour. END

Source: The Embassy of the Philippines -  Ottawa, Canada