Jessy Mendiola’s mission cuts both ways

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While most are happy that Jessy Mendiola has been appointed by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) as honorary Korea Tourism Ambassador, some ask what the actress is doing for her own country.


“It’s vice-versa. While I promote Korea to Pinoys, I also promote the Philippines to the Koreans when I’m there. Syempre, kailangan ko ding alagaan ang image ng Pilipinas. Kapag pumunta ako ng Korea, makikita nila na maganda din pala sa Pilipinas, warm din pala ang mga Pinoy.

“Meron din silang ambassadress na Korean naman for Philippines so ganun, nagpapalitan,” she said in an interview.

The actress finds Korea vibrant, colorful and historical. More than the special treatment she gets there, she is thrilled to learn about their culture, partly by visiting hospitals and tourism spots Changdeokgung Royal Palace, N-Seoul Tower, Lotte World, etc.

“Ang daming dimensions ng Korea, ang daming sanga, ang daming anggulong puwede mong tingnan.”


Work abroad

Will the Star Magic talent trade her career here should more opportunities open in Korea? Jessy would rather cross the bridge when she gets there—and if there’s one—but she remains open to anything.

“Wala pa namang offer,  nagsisimula pa lang naman ako. But if it happens, why not? It’s a new opportunity. Pero masaya ako sa mga nangyayari sa akin dito sa atin.”

Jessy had been to Korea in 2012 to participate in the KBS channel’s World Date with K-pop stars Shinee. Since then, she had been visiting the country often.

Sangyong Zhu, Director of KTO Manila Office, says in a statement, “Jessy is the right person to be an Honorary Ambassador because she is one of the most popular actresses and models as a rising star in the field of show biz in the Philippines. She is still young but already became one of the most influential celebrities in the Philippine society… her image is bright, amiable, good-natured and even noble…”

In Korea, Jessy is tasked to publicize Korean premium tours and Korean beauty and wellness. Other honorary ambassadors are PSY, Super Junior, 2PM, Miss A, English opera singer Paul Potts and Hollywood star Lindsay Price.