Frasco Says Presence in Tourism Ads Is Part of Her Job, Not Self-Promotion
CHRISTINA FRASCO — The Tourism Secretary responded to criticism regarding her frequent appearance in promotional materials released by the Department of Tourism, saying her visibility is part of her work and not self-promotion. She made the clarification during a public forum in Manila on February 4, following concerns raised by netizens and lawmakers about her image appearing in tourism campaigns.
Frasco said the main question raised by critics is why she is often seen in official materials. Some believe this was done to promote herself, but she explained that her visibility comes from actively performing her duties as tourism secretary. She added that she has no reason to promote herself since she is not planning to run for any national position in the 2028 elections.
She also explained why her name and photo appeared in some local tourist destinations. According to Frasco, these were welcome displays prepared by local government units whenever she visited their areas for official work. She clarified that these were not intended to build her personal image but were meant to acknowledge her visit during tourism-related activities.
Despite this, Frasco said she has already taken steps to address the issue. She ordered all Department of Tourism regional offices to remove any promotional materials that feature her image and to stop producing new materials that include her photo. She also said the department would ask local government units not to put up banners or tarpaulins bearing her image during official events.
The issue gained wider attention following a Senate Committee on Tourism hearing on February 3. During the hearing, Senator Raffy Tulfo relayed feedback from netizens who felt that tourism campaigns should focus on promoting the Philippines rather than government officials.
Frasco stressed that tourism promotions should highlight the country’s destinations, culture, and people. She said the Department of Tourism remains focused on presenting the Philippines positively and responsibly while continuing its work to support and grow the country’s tourism industry.