Blind, Elderly Tourist Beckons Others to ‘Experience PHL’ in New DOT Ad

Life feels better when with Filipinos.

This is the claim made by a blind, elderly tourist from Japan who goes by the name, “Mr. Uchimura” in the newest campaign advertisement of the Department of Tourism (DOT) which was shown to media on Wednesday.

The new ad shows Uchimura “experiencing” activities in top tourist destinations including island-hopping in Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, dancing with locals at the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, sitting on the backseat of an ATV ride in the Paoay Sand Dunes in Laoag, and finally strolling around the cobblestone Calle Crisologo in Vigan.

“Here, you don’t have to see the sun to discover radiance; you don’t have to see to colors to experience vibrance; you don’t have to see smiles to know you are safe; you don’t have to see to feel you are home,” Uchimura says in the voice over.

It was only revealed in the last part of the 60-minute ad that Uchimura, who was shown wearing sunglasses, was blind and used a cane to help him navigate Calle Crisologo.

Uchimura, who was having what seemed like “meryenda” (snacks) with Vigan locals, reached out for his wallet to pay, but he was stopped by a man who said, “Next time.” Uchimura replied with an “Arigato” (thank you in Japanese) and walked home.

He was last shown walking Calle Crisologo where the words “Life feels better when with Filipinos” appeared on the screen. The ad faded to reveal the words “Experience the Philippines.”

DOT Undersecretary Kat de Castro, in a press conference, said that the new ad is based on a true person’s experience — a tourist who decided to retire in the Philippines.

This new ad comes after the successful “Anak” ad which featured a blonde-haired tourist visiting the Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur and claiming that “When you’re with Filipinos, you’re with family.” It was launched during the Miss Universe pageant last January 30.

De Castro said that the ad was meant to promote PWD-friendly tourism and senior citizen tourism for retirees.

She, meanwhile, said that the ad is expected to be launched nationwide in simultaneous flag-raising ceremonies on Independence Day (June 12).

“Eventually, the ad will make its way to emerging markets and will be shown worldwide,” she said. (PNA)