Former captain of idol group’s Team K set to promote the country as an attractive destination for Japanese tourists.
The Philippines’ Department of Tourism has appointed former AKB48 member Sayaka Akimoto last Friday as its Tourism Goodwill Ambassador for the Philippines.
“With the help of our Ambassador Ms. Akimoto, we will show you why ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines!’,” the department says in its announcement posted on the Facebook page of their Japanese tourism campaign.
Akimoto also shared her sentiments about her appointment with her fans on her official blog, saying that, “Now we will be able to convey to the people of Japan the warmth and graciousness of the Filipinos, and we are working hard to promote it!”
Although no details were given as to what her role would entail, Akimoto is expected to actively promote the Philippines to the Japanese as an attractive tourist destination.
Akimoto, who shares her Filipino heritage from her mother, graduated from the popular idol group in August 2013 having served as the captain of Team K.
She has visited the Philippines a number of times, including her most recent trip back in September for a photo shoot.
SOURCES: Department of Tourism via Orends: Range, Sayaka Akimoto’s Ameba blog with translation from JM Reyes
