UNWTO CALLS FOR SUPPORT TO THE PHILIPPINES

Saddened by the devastating impact of typhoon Haiyan which hit an important part of the Visayas region in the Philippines, the UNWTO is calling for support from the tourism industry. “Our thoughts at this difficult moment are with the families and friends of the victims and all those suffering in this tragic moment,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai (pictured). “UNWTO is confident that despite this tragic occurrence, the tourism sector in the Philippines will continue to strive and make a key contribution to the development of the country.”

UNWTO is ready to support the Philippines in any tourism-related recovery program to be designed for the affected areas and is calling on the tourism industry and tourists to support the Philippines by donating to the on-going relief efforts of the various UN agencies operating on the ground. “We call upon all tourism companies, associations and tourists from all around the world to contribute to the UN efforts being deployed to support the Philippines and show the solidarity of the sector with the people of the Philippines in this difficult moment,” said Rifai.