The new tourism slogan, “It’s more fun in the Philippines,” conceived and initiated by the Department of Tourism, is tailor-made for our country.
However, before we entice potential foreign tourists to visit our shores, we must first put our house in order. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the local governments concerned should get their act together and spruce up Metro Manila.
As the Philippines’ gateway to the world, Metro Manila should get rid of its many eyesores. Mendicants, graffiti, litter and uncollected garbage in streets, clogged sidewalks taken over by vendors, poorly lighted major thoroughfares, illegal and informal settlers, murky, if not “missing,” esteros, etc. are some of the minor and major problems that have to be addressed.
Indeed, a big challenge but, if done, should be a grand, wonderful “face-lift” for Metro Manila.
—PEDRO REFUERZO JR.,
6737 Taylo St., Makati City