PHILIPPINE AIRPORT BANS CHRISTMAS

credits to: http://www.manilamaildc.net

Just as Christmas was approaching, people around the world were supposed to greet each other a"HAPPY MERRY CHRISTMAS!" but fellows I was shocked to know that the MANILA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY last Wednesday told its employees and personnel to refrain from greeting arriving and departing passengers "MERRY CHRISTMAS" to avoid the impression that they are soliciting Christmas gifts, whether in cash or in kind.

The general Manager JOSE ANGELO HONRADO explained that, "I strongly discourage them from extending the 'Merry Christmas' or other similar greetings to passengers because such a gesture, no matter how casual or sincere, might be misinterpreted as asking for a trip."

He also added,"A warm and friendly smile is enough-and, of course, very efficient service."

The Miia manager said that the  "reminder" is especially aimed at employees and personnel manning airport counters or those who are tasked to assist passengers.

"It is not good for airport personnel, including immigration and customs officers, to be perceived as gift solicitors," he said in an interview.