THE Department of Tourism (DOT) has teamed up with Funko and Disney to bring one of the world’s most iconic and beloved characters, Mickey Mouse, to the Philippines via Funko Pops – with a locally inspired design for the first time.

This new line of Mickey-themed Funko Pops, which are now available in the market, were specially created together with Disney and Funko.

Mickey Mouse will be featured in a barong tagalog, the national attire of the Philippines, an embroidered long-sleeved shirt commonly used as a formal outfit.

The package also contains a postcard from the country’s major tourist magnets, Boracay, Baguio, Cebu, Manila, and Siargao Island.

On Tuesday, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat met with Ban Kee Trading, Inc. CEO (Chief Executive Officer), Eric Bautista, the authorized Philippine distributor for Funko and Funko Funatic Philippines founder Nikko Lim to formally forge the partnership with the DOT.

“We believe that having a global icon like Mickey Mouse will help promote the Philippines, and its tourist destinations, to the world. This collectible will not only be enjoyed by children but also adults who want to reminisce about all the good times they had with their favorite Disney character,” Puyat said, citing that this collection would also contribute to the recovery of the pandemic-hit tourism industry.

Last November 2021, the DOT collaborated with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia for the Mickey Go Philippines campaign, which included producing various digital content featuring local travel destinations, and Mickey-inspired versions of local delicacies such as arroz caldo, halo-halo, and Vigan empanada.

In November 2018, Mickey Mouse also traveled around the Philippines wearing a barong as part of worldwide celebrations honoring 90 years of Mickey Mouse. By Cristina Lee-Pisco

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Cristina Lee-Pisco