New Tear-Jerking Tourism Video Honors Frontliners and Filipino Optimism

We all know tourism is one of the biggest-hit industries in the COVID-19 pandemic. But even though flights are grounded and people can't leave their own cities, the country's Department of Tourism is still finding ways to show how it's more fun in the Philippines.

Released today, April 4, the new DOT video features "With A Smile," an iconic Eraserheads tune sung by Bea Lorenzo in a bare bones, almost chilling cover. According to the DOT, Lorenzo's rendition is extra personal as both her father and grandfather are doctors, the soldiers fighting this disease.

Instead of the usual Philippine beaches and local cuisine, director Joel Limchoc strung together user-generated clips featuring health workers, grocery and convenience store clerks, delivery personnel, and many others on the frontlines. 

The video ends with optimism, Filipinos covered in masks still, but with smiles that can barely be concealed.