The Department of Tourism (DOT) lauds the initiative of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in urging all Local Government Units (LGUs) to ensure the accreditation of primary tourism enterprises (PTEs).

In its Memorandum Circular No. 2019-17, DILG reiterates the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9593 or Tourism Act of 2009, indicating that PTEs such as hotels, resorts, inns, and other accommodation establishments are required to secure accreditation from the DOT for issuance of license or permit to operate.

This is a welcome development as it further establishes the relevance of the DOT Accreditation among PTEs which includes travel and tour agencies, tourist transport operators, tourism frontliners, and convention and exhibition organizers.

The DOT Accreditation is a certification issued to tourism enterprises after having complied with the minimum standards for the operation of tourism facilities and services.

The DILG memorandum likewise states that “LGUs have to ensure that all PTEs have complied with and have obtained DOT accreditation before operations.” The DOT through its regional offices is excited to work with all LGUs in ensuring strict compliance by tourism enterprises with the accreditation rules and regulations.

Both parties will also continue working on the following shared responsibilities as mandated by the Tourism Act of 2009 – LGU capacity-building in partnership with the private sector, travel advisories, local tourism promotion, resources inventory, destination development, standard setting, and regulatory enforcement.

As of December 31, 2018, a total of 6,108 primary tourism enterprises and 772 secondary tourism enterprises were accredited nationwide.

Check the complete list of DOT Accredited Tourism Enterprises here: https://goo.gl/T3cN4h.