21 March 2013 - The Philippine Consulate General in Toronto successfully launched the 8th Ambassadors, Consuls General and Tourism Directors Tour to the Philippines (ACGTDT) to a full house at Casa Manila Restaurant in York Mills, Toronto last Friday evening, March 15.
More popularly known as the “Heritage Tour,” the launch was well-received by the attendees, who were mostly Filipino-Canadians living in Ontario, as well as several local and foreign friends of the Consulate, including United Nations (UN) and Rotary International Representative Mr. Douglas Vincent. Councilor Raymond Cho likewise graced the occasion with his presence, while Philippine-born Federal Senator Tobias “Jun” Enverga, Jr. was the event’s guest-of-honor. Both officials spoke of their support for the Tour, and encouraged everyone present to join ACGTDT.
Aside from the detailed presentation of the tour itself, the other highlight of the night was the Consulate’s recognition ceremony for the Filipino-Canadian recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals, which are awarded to British Commonwealth citizens for their notable and exemplary achievements in their respective communities.
A total of 30 awardees were acknowledged by Consul General Junever Mahilum-West and presented to a very appreciative audience.
The Heritage Tour is the brainchild of former Philippine Ambassador to the United States and now Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. del Rosario to promote the Philippines as a holiday destination for tourists coming from North America, and is done in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
This year’s Tour will feature various provincial destinations aside from the basic Manila-based itinerary, which includes a visit to Malacañan Palace and courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III.
The Tour will run from July 9 to 15 and will be part of DOT’s “It’s More Fun in the Philippines!” tourism campaign. END
