#helpDOT
If you’re on Twitter, you would recognize this hashtag. This is the Filipinos way of helping the Department of Tourism. By spreading the beauty of the Philippines through Twitter. This blog is also inspired by Carlos Celdran’s post.
This is a blog post is done out of impulse. A week ago I was comparing Malaysia’s Tourism Website with the Philippines’ and the hard fact is that ours is behind 20years. Yes, you can check it out yourself. I watch National Geographic daily and it always amazes me to see tourism adds by Malaysia (Truly Asia), Incredible India and Thailand. I haven’t been to India or Thailand (well, almost) but I’ve been to Malaysia for a week and I can tell that Philippines is way better than the country called “Truly Asia.”
Philippines is just underrated. Its a destination at par with others in Asia. I repeat, “Philippines is a destination at par with others”
BUT, you cannot agree to this if you haven’t been to scenic places in your own country or have traveled outside the Philippines. So goes the drive and encouragement for you to explore your country. If you are doing that good. If not, its never too late.
For starters, begin on your own place. You can always go to the Tourism Office and you will be surprised on what your city/town offers.
Just this past week, I found myself (again out of impulse) walking on
Intramuros by TeamManila
just observing people. Taking some photos and enjoying part of the Old Manila. Intramuros has always been our doorstep but we just choose to forget it. I bet more people wants to go to Mall of Asia or TriNoMa than in Intramuros. Dude, I encourage you to have your own walking tour. It’s free and educational too!
Then I tried it here in my home town Los Banos. I realize that I wasn’t able to blog something about Los Banos so I need to make up for this.
For the love of caffeine, I visited every coffee shop near UPLB. I learned a lot- like where their coffee beans come from, their best sellers, prices and some stuff. I will blog about this soon.
My point? SIMPLE. Let’s help our country- the Philippines. Let’s be positive on this and spread the good vibes.
1. If you’re on Twitter you can start by sharing your favorite travel destination and adding #helpDOT. Twit now!
2. I know you have a Facebook and you can use it too by putting something like “I heart the Philippines” or “____________(favorite place in the Philippine) rocks!” on your status. As simple as that. Let’s get our message across.
3. Start with your own city/town. Pay a visit to your city’s tourism office and be amazed on what they’ve got. C’mon don’t assume you knew it all. After all, we pay taxes for them to get their job done.
1. If you’re on Twitter you can start by sharing your favorite travel destination and adding #helpDOT. Twit now!
2. I know you have a Facebook and you can use it too by putting something like “I heart the Philippines” or “____________(favorite place in the Philippine) rocks!” on your status. As simple as that. Let’s get our message across.
3. Start with your own city/town. Pay a visit to your city’s tourism office and be amazed on what they’ve got. C’mon don’t assume you knew it all. After all, we pay taxes for them to get their job done.
Oh, one thing more, when you see tourists/backpackers around, why not give them a smile or say ‘hi’ ‘good morning’ ‘how may i help you?’
Look at how @TeamManila volunteered to #helpDOT
I’ve been here:
and here:
and here:
not yet here:
saw this one already but I want to return
Thanks @TeamManila and @carlosceldran for the efforts! Let’s continue to spread the word.
So you’re not yet inspired??! This is my last try:
Drop Dead Gorgeous Philippines!
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thanks for reading journeyingjames- “spend less, travel more”

a great idea to help promote Philippine tourism through Twitter. you're right, Philippines is underrated– i miss that DOT ad campaign with Bayang Barrios singing. i love those TV ads of Malaysia and India.
i hope they would work double time to promote responsible tourism.. i wish gordon is still the DOT sec he had a blast when he conceptualize WOW philippines.
And we speak English which other Asian countries don't. Sec. Durano was also very good in tapping the internet to promote the country. Hopefully Sec. Lim will also introduce some innovative programs in promoting the country.
Indeed, way better than the Singaporeans in using the universal language. Lets hope that this year would be great for tourism! in unity lets #helpDOT
I'm really interested to visit Philippines.
@kendrapara thanks for your interest! just let me know how may i help you as you plan your visit in the philippines. you are very much welcome here!
I would like to exchange links with your site journeyingjames.blogspot.comIs this possible?
how can we exchange links if you are anonymous?