JEDDAH, 17 September — The Philippine Department of Tourism has launched its "Tourism Volunteer-12" program or V-12 to mobilize the estimated 7.38 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worldwide as tourism ambassadors of the Philippines.
The goal of the program is for the tourism volunteer to invite at least one foreign tourist per month or 12 visitors in 12 months. Or, even just one visitor in twelve months. If the 7.38 million OFWs bring just one visitor, the country would have 7.38 million tourists and benefit from tourist receipts of over $4 billion.
For every guest sent to the Philippines entitles the tourism volunteer to benefits and incentives, according to a press release from the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah.
Foreign guests who visit the Philippines under this program are entitled also to attractive discounts and amenities from participating establishments, the news release said.
The top producing tourism volunteers will be announced in December 2002. The grand prize winner will receive the prestigious Kalakbay Award, free air ticket to the Philippines, Hotel Accommodations, and $10,000. Other winners will receive cash.
To join, volunteers may access website www.dotpeve.gov.ph, fill-up and e-mail registration form direct to the V-12 Manila Secretariat or fill up registration form available at the consulate’s Economic Diplomacy Unit, through Rose Marie M. Justiniano, tel. No. 660-0348/667-0925/663-0354 Ext. 14 and Fax No. 663-0838.