Next tourism chief should have no political affiliation

The next tourism secretary should have a good grasp of the trade, a chief who is not affiliated with any political color, these are among the suggestions from private sector leaders at the wake of DOT secretary Wanda Teo's controversial resignation.

“The action of our President is very admirable, as doing so projects strong political will," said Hotel, Resorts and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC) president Carlo B. Suarez.

Teo tendered her resignation as DOT secretary yesterday morning in the wake of a controversy about aP 60 million advertising deal entered into by her department to the television program of her brothers, Ben and Erwin Tulfo.

Suarez hopes that the next DOT secretary should focus more on tourism improvements rather than getting caught in political intrigues, let alone alleged corruption.

Tourism capitalist and leader Jonathan Jay P. Aldeguer said that the government should get a DOT chief who gives a stronger impact to the industry.

"It’s good that the alleged corruption against her [Teo] is addressed swiftly," added Aldeguer.

Likewise, Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) president Stanley Go appealed to the Duterte administration to appoint someone who knows well about the industry and should focus his/her works on the ground.

Working on the ground-up is developing the strength of the Philippines in "experiential tourism," instead of putting the money mostly on advertising and promotions.

It is also crucial for the Duterte government to immediately fill in the vacuum left by Teo, as tourism plays a critical role in the country's Gross Domestic Products (GDP).

"Whoever replaces Teo should put in place good programs, projects that boost tourism," Go stressed explaining further that promotional programs and projects should not be one-shot-deals but should all be sustainable. Suarez urged the Duterte administration to move fast, adding that the Philippines cannot afford to waste a day or two in taking advantage its tourism potential and seize the upswing tourism growth in Asia.

"We need to join our neighboring countries in welcoming tourists like Vietnam and Singapore. Moving forward it would be in the best interest for HRRAC to recommend that the next tourism Secretary should be knowledgeable with both global and national tourism status. Ideal also to have a person representing the hospitality industry not merely a political appointee," Suarez further appealed in behalf of the hospitality sector.

Teo is the fifth official to leave the Duterte cabinet, following the resignation of former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre.