Tourism Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat enjoined industry stakeholders to assist the Department of Tourism in convincing and preparing destinations for eventual tourism reopening, specifically those under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).
“I talked to the Tourism Congress of the Philippines asking help to talk to local government units with the stakeholders of not only tourism but non-tourism. We’ll do it regional,” she said.
Romulo-Puyat noted that a lot of provinces have already shifted to MGCQ, meaning they can already accept tourists.
However, the reality on the ground is that provinces are still hesitant to open up to people outside of their respective regions.
The official said she understands where the LGUs are coming from and even cited Baguio as an example, which is still boosting their preparations and health protocols before accepting travelers in September.
“The non-tourism stakeholders should also be included (during consultations) to assure them (LGUs) that once we start tourism – slowly but surely – health and safety protocols are in place,” she said.
Beyond consultative meetings, Romulo-Puyat also hoped that stakeholders would partner with the government when tourism under the new normal has finally begun.
Since the DOT issued guidelines for various tourism establishments amid the pandemic, Romulo-Puyat has been in talks with different LGUs in Boracay, Palawan, Bohol, and Baguio. – PNA release
April 24, 2024
