PHL tourism gets push at Prague Christmas bazaar

Philippine tourism received another push abroad after the Philippines' successful participation in a Christmas bazaar in the Czech Republic. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippine booth at the International Christmas Bazaar 2010 on November 28 was one of the "most popular booths." "The Philippine booth was one of the most popular booths during the event. All but a few items for sale at the Philippine booth, consisting mainly of pearl jewelry, were sold. Philippine tourism brochures were also distributed to visitors," the DFA said Friday, citing a report from the Philippine Embassy in the Czech Republic. Philippine tourism is still recovering from the effects of a deadly hostage crisis in Manila on August 23 and a row over its "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" branding. The DFA said at least 60 international organizations and diplomatic missions participated in the Christmas bazaar at the Hilton Hotel. The agency added this year's event showcased a "fantastic selection" of products such as jewelry, wines, food specialties, clothing, handicrafts, unique items and works of art. Czech First Lady Livia Klausova graced the opening as patron. For their part, members of the Filipino community in the Czech Republic assisted the Embassy in manning the Philippine booth. The International Christmas Bazaar is an annual event organized by the Diplomatic Spouses Association (DSA) of Prague. Its main purpose is to raise funds for humanitarian organizations in the Czech Republic. – VVP, GMANews.TV