As the Philippines continues to experience difficulty attracting foreign tourists, a tragedy struck two Japanese nationals in the City of Manila which led to the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) condemnation of the fatal shooting committed by motorcycle-riding assailants, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
For the newcomers reading this, Japan accounted for 444,528 visitors in the Philippines for the year 2024 which was a huge growth over the 2023 numbers.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of the PNA. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday strongly condemned the fatal shooting of two Japanese nationals in Manila.
In a statement, the agency extended its sympathies to the families and called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a “swift and thorough” investigation into the incident.
“Tourism, a vital pillar of livelihood for millions of Filipinos, heavily depends on creating and maintaining conditions of peace, safety, and security,” the statement read.
“We note with deep concern that recent events have already prompted advisories from foreign embassies in the country’s top visitor source markets, which could adversely affect tourist confidence and the Philippines’ image as a safe and welcoming destination,” it added.
The DOT is working with relevant agencies, including local governments and stakeholders, to reinforce security measures for visiting foreigners.
“[T]he Department also continues to coordinate with its Regional Offices, local government units, and tourism stakeholders to reinforce protective measures, reassure foreign and domestic visitors, and safeguard the tourism industry that sustains so many Filipino families,” it said.
The two Japanese were shot by motorcycle-riding assailants while exiting a taxi along Malvar Street in Manila on Aug. 15.
The Manila Police District on Monday said one suspect has been taken into custody while another person of interest has been identified in connection with the robbery with homicide.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the fatal shooting of the two Japanese nationals in Manila is already heavily damaging the Philippines’ standing as a tourist destination? Do you think that people in Japan are already turned off by the tragedy of August 15?
You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.
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