DoT chief advises tourists: Travel wisely

THE Department of Tourism (DoT) on Saturday reminded tourists and pilgrims to travel responsibly in order to have a safe and meaningful break, especially during the Holy Week.

“Travelers needing accommodation, transportation and other tourism-related services are strongly advised to patronize DoT-accredited tourism enterprises,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said in a statement.

“Accreditation by the DoT recognizes establishments as having complied with the Department’s minimum standards set to ensure the quality operation of tourism facilities and services,” she added.

She also encouraged the public to stay up-to-date on travel-related news and safety guidelines from credible sources and to be careful in getting unsolicited messages or offers from unverified social media accounts offering fake accommodation, travel tickets, and vacation deals.

For a national list of authorized hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, and other tourism firms, please visit https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/accreditations/#dot-accredited.

For guidance and assistance on general tourism inquiries, DoT accreditation, travel complaints and other emergencies, the DoT Tourist Assistance Call Center will also remain open to the public 24/7 via hotline number 151-TOUR or 1518687, mobile number +63995-8355155, and the following platforms: e-mail address touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph; Facebook Messenger at https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism; or web chat at https://philippines.travel/ and https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/.

“By staying vigilant and informed, travelers can enjoy a memorable and worry-free Holy Week vacation experience,” Secretary Frasco said.

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of the sacred celebration, which continues until Easter Sunday.

The days of the Easter Triduum (Maundy Thursday through Black Saturday) are considered public holidays. Holy Week is also a muchanticipated yearly long-holiday weekend in the Philippines.