Lawmaker wants Pacquiao as tourism ambassador

MANILA, Philippines - A lawmaker wants the House of Representatives to adopt a resolution making boxing champion Manny Pacquiao the Philippine tourism ambassador.

Agbiag Rep. Patrick Antonio said the Sarangani lawmaker is the best person to represent the country because of his worldwide popularity because of his excellence in the ring and his humility and magnanimity in victory.

“There’s no doubt that Manny Pacquiao has earned the respect of people all over the world especially after his last fight with Mexican boxer Antonio Margarito,” he said.

By naming Pacquiao the Philippine tourism ambassador, Antonio said the administration will promote the Philippines and present to the world a Filipino who has brought great honor to his countrymen.

As the country’s tourism endorser, Pacquiao will be a “tourism magnet” as proven by thousands of boxing fans who have watched his exploits in the ring, he added.

Antonio also proposed that “Wow Philippines” be retained as the country’s promotional slogan.

“The word ‘Wow’ alone signifies astonishment or admiration and it is a statement of delight which perfectly describes the beauty of our country and people,” he said.

“Wow Philippines” had already gained worldwide attraction and had been in the global travel market for almost nine years since it was launched in 2001, he added.

Many Filipinos see nothing wrong with the “Wow Philippines” slogan so there was no compelling reason to change it, Antonio said.