MANILA, Philippines – Binatikos ng Department of Tourism (DOT) ang isang website sa maling pagtukoy sa Pilipinas bilang “least safe country” para sa mga turista.
Naunang tinukoy ng Insurance company HelloSafe na Travel Safety Index ang Pilipinas bilang “least safe country” ngunit kalaunan ay pinalitan ng ibang bansa.
“We demand that HelloSafe correct all references to the erroneous data against the Philippines across its platforms and to ensure the accuracy and consistency of its reporting tools, including interactive visual assets,” saad sa pahayag ni DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco nitong Huwebes, Hunyo 19.
“It disrupted bookings and businesses. It cast doubt on our destinations. Worse, it harmed the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos who depend on tourism, and entire communities whose economies rise and fall with the confidence of travelers,” dagdag pa.
Kinwestyon ni Frasco ang metodolohiya sa pagsasabing ang index ay batay sa driving travel insurance sales sa halip na safety assessments.
Sinabi rin ng opisyal na ang site ay nagbago ng impormasyon nang hindi man lamang nagbibigay ng paglilinaw.
“We fully recognize that the Philippines, like any country, has challenges. We do not deny that. The fact remains that extensive work is being done daily to address those challenges,” giit ni Frasco.
“Across our key and emerging destinations, safety is not taken for granted. It is upheld by trained police personnel, supported by strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies and local governments, and reinforced by the commitment of our tourism workers,” dagdag pa niya. RNT/JGC
