President Marcos to Pinoys: Continue displaying hospitality

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday called on Filipinos to continue displaying the hospitality they are known for in a vlog that tackled how the Philippines welcomes visiting foreign leaders.

In a video posted on YouTube, Marcos said Philippine tourism is thriving not just because of the country’s attractive destinations but also due to the hospitality of Filipinos.

“Hospitality has always been a characteristic of every Filipino. Let’s practice it further, make it better. It is an important component of our journey towards a new Philippines,” the President said.

“Filipino hospitality is innate in each of us, because the caring of Filipinos starts at home,” he added.

The President said all efforts to welcome him in his foreign trips are always “best foot forward,” prodding him to discuss the hospitality practices in Malacañang whenever a foreign leader visits the country.

He added that the entertainment prepared for the guests and the gifts given to them highlight the Filipino talent and promote local businesses.

According to Marcos, the Philippines strategically places the flags of the visitors along the streets where they will pass, ensure the cleanliness of the streets and touching up with paint.

Welcoming gestures, Marcos said, should be personalized, noting that the folk songs of the guests’ countries are played when they go to Malacañang.

The vlog also touched on the process of carefully choosing and preparing the meals to be served to guests depending on their dietary requirements, preferences and allergies. Marcos said guests are also given gifts from local stores to promote Filipino, micro, small and medium enterprises.

He added that the Philippines offers its visitors a place near the venue of their events to ensure their convenience.