Accommodation firms urged to get DOT accreditation

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) 7 will conduct an intensive campaign to encourage more accommodation establishments to become accredited enterprises under the DOT.

Among the perks of getting DOT accreditation, according to DOT 7 Director Rowena Montecillo are the trainings and evaluation that would make the accommodation become more competitive. For guests, it would also guarantee that the establishment they stay in is safe, legitimate and adheres with the standards set by the industry.

Accreditation fees for the accommodation sector range from P700 to P2,700, considered the cheapest in the global hospitality industry, said Vincent Gibbons, international team leader of the DOT, Asian Development Bank-Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) group.

Montecillo noted that they are having difficulty in attracting more estab- lishments to get accreditation because it is not mandatory. However, she emphasized that the benefits outweigh the cost of getting accredited, especially that the agency’s objective is for all guests to have the same quality of experience, regardless of which type of accommodation they pick.

Among the benefits and priveleges of DOT accreditation is the inclusion of the company’s profile in DOT’s website www. visitmyphilippines. com, where information of all accredited establishments in the country are made available to local and foreign travelers; technical assistance and access to database information on travel and tourism such as tourism statistics, market profiles, travel surveys— which are helpful in planning and marketing initiatives; and inclusion of the company in DOT travel mission collaterals.

Montecillo added the accreditation will also open more opportunities for tourism players.

She cited as an example the existing agreement with DOT and the Department of Education on educational tours. Prior to the tour, the DepEd has to submit to DOT region its tour itinerary including accommodation, transport, and tour guides for the DOT to assess if they are accredited with them.

“This is to ensure safety of students joining the tours,” said Montecillo. “So if you aren’t accredited with us you will not be able to take advantage of opportunities like this.”