By Alithea De Jesus
Admitting that the past two years have been tough for them, Duty Free Philippines marked the holiday season with the annual Christmas Tree lighting event held at its premier Luxe Duty Free store last November 16.
No less than DFPC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Vicente Angala expressed his gratitude for the continued support of DFPC’s loyal patrons and partners in the tourism, travel and retail industry. In his welcome remarks, Angala underscored that the lighting of the tree is very meaningful to Duty Free Philippines as it symbolizes “TRIUMPH”, with the opening of the economy, the easing of travel restrictions, Angala takes pride in the gradual recovery from the brunt of the pandemic and bullish about the eventual recovery and growth of the industry.
“I see this lighting of our Christmas tree as a symbol of hope for brighter years ahead,” he noted.
Operating in its 35th year of serving its exclusive market of international travelers, and being the country’s only travel retailer that contributes to the government’s tourism programs. To stay relevant and keep up with the evolving global consumer trends, DFPC developed a new logo intended to convey a more contemporary image while retaining the core elements of the state-owned corporation’s traditions. The logo was officially revealed during the event.
Angala also revealed that DFPC is shifting its customers’ focus to LUXE Duty Free to cater to the discriminating taste of the new range of OFWs and Balikbayans who are now composed mostly of generation X and millennials. Luxe Duty Free is located at the Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City with offerings ranging from staple duty free products of chocolates and liquor to a wider mix of luxury essentials from the world’s best fashion brands.
The Christmas Tree lighting ceremony was attended by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ma. Christina Garcia Frasco and other DOT officials, the DFPC Board of Directors, representatives from government agencies and suppliers.
As most travel retail operators, DFPC was hit hard by the pandemic. With the continued support of its partner agencies and suppliers, the Tourism attached agency is now bouncing back. Aside from the Manila downtown and NAIA stores, the Duty Free outlets in Mactan Cebu, Iloilo and Kalibo have already resumed operations.
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