WATCH: DOT releases ‘Experience the Philippines’ ad

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – The Department of Tourism released on Monday, June 12, a new TV commercial, following a family-oriented ad back in January. (WATCH: DOT launches new ad campaign with family-focused TVC)

From “It’s More Fun in The Philippines,” the tagline for the new commercial is “Experience the Philippines.”

UPDATE: The DOT removed the commercial from their Facebook page after social media users said it was similar to a South African tourism ad. The DOT also has also cut ties with the advertising agency who made the commercial, McCann Worldgroup Philippines, after the incident. 

In the ad titled “Sights,” a Japanese retiree named M. Uchimura is seen enjoying the sights of the Philippines by checking out the Hundred Islands of Pangasinan, spending time with the people of the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, riding an ATV at the Paoay Sand Dunes, and eating snacks at Calle Crisologo in Vigan.

Uchimura, revealed to be blind at the end of the ad, can be heard saying: “Here, you don’t have to see the sun to discover radiance; you don’t have to see colors to experience vibrance; you don’t have to see smiles to know you are safe; you don’t have to see to feel you are home.”

In a statement, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo said that beyond featuring the Philippines, the new commercial encourages tourists to experience what the country has to offer.

“We are shifting our focus in our promotional campaigns towards the unique experiences that each destination could offer, Filipino hospitality, and security,” she said.

“The basic element of ‘fun’ remains, as it is truly the Filipinos who make the total tourism experience fulfilling and memorable. The heart and essence of the tourism thrust is the people,” she added. 

“Sights” is the second in the DOT’s ad series. It will be shown on local and international channels, as well as in the department’s roadshows.

What do you think of the new ad? Let us know in the comments section. – Rappler.com