DOT promotes ‘more fun’ brand in London’s Canary Wharf

Partners of DOT-London such as Premier Holidays, Hayes and Jarvis, Crystal Travel and Selective Asia, meanwhile, lured Londoners with holiday packages to the Philippines. (PNA photo)

MANILA— Images of the Philippines’ best islands, tarsier, rice terraces, and jeepney dominated the 30 digital screens and 40 static posters inside Canary Wharf’s malls in London last week.

This, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT) London Office, was part of the Philippine tourism showcase held July 31 to August 6 which was meant to present the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” brand and entice Londoners to visit the country.

Tourism Attaché in London Gerry Panga, in a statement, said the Canary Wharf Station was chosen since it has a 1.2 million footfall a week and more than 100,00 working professionals who hold office in the area.

“The consumer activation is meant to engage the British consumers for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Philippines not only as a leisure destination but business as well,” Panga said.

Previously, the DOT held its Philippine tourism showcase in the London Waterloo and King’s Cross Stations.

Aside from images of Philippine islands, passersby also got to hear the tune of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, and experience food sampling of “turon” (banana) and Filipino flavors of ube, mango and macapuno ice cream.

A flair bartending show was also led by multi-awarded flair bartending champion Dennis Barela.

There were also cultural dances that drew people to dance the “tinikling” and try out the virtual reality pods that gave people a glimpse of the Philippines.

Partners of DOT-London such as Premier Holidays, Hayes and Jarvis, Crystal Travel and Selective Asia, meanwhile, lured Londoners with holiday packages to the Philippines.

Meanwhile, flag carrier Philippine Airlines provided special fares to the Philippines. Selective Asia also prepared a nine-night holiday to the Philippines in cooperation with PDOT London and PAL.