In a heartfelt show of compassion and solidarity, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco personally extended financial assistance to DOT employees affected by the recent typhoons.
The assistance—a personal donation from Secretary Frasco and her husband, Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco—was distributed recently at the DOT Central Office in Makati City.
Frasco emphasized the importance of looking after the Department’s workforce, noting that caring for DOT personnel is just as essential as supporting the country’s tourism frontliners.
“Kahit ano pa ‘yung mangyari, no matter the trials, no matter the problems and the struggles that we face, as long as we’re alive, there’s hope.”
“I sincerely hope that beyond the amounts, what you will take away from this meeting is that you’re not alone in your struggles. And no matter the difficulties of life, kahit ano pa ‘yung mangyari, no matter the trials, no matter the problems and the struggles that we face, as long as we’re alive, there’s hope,” the tourism chief said.
The tourism head also took the opportunity to acknowledge the steadfast dedication of both long-serving and younger employees, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the continued success of the tourism sector despite the challenges they face.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Rhea Ison, Chief of Management Division, gave voice to the deep gratitude felt by DOT personnel.
“Kahit hindi kami sumigaw, naramdaman niyo ‘yung sigaw ng puso namin.”
“Ang sarap pala ng pakiramdam na hindi na hinihingi pero binigay sa inyo ng kusa—na kahit hindi kami sumigaw, naramdaman niyo ‘yung sigaw ng puso namin,” Ison said.
“Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat po, and we will not forget this day sa pagmamahal at pinakitang ng DOT,” she added.
