Smart, DOT launch SMS-based info service

Manila, Philippines - Hoping to spur domestic tourism, Smart Communications Inc. and the Department of Tourism (DOT) officially launched the DOT on Mobile service powered by Infoboard during the Baragatan 2011 Festival in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan recently.

A Web-based SMS service developed by Smart, Infoboard allows the DOT to send text alerts about the latest tourism news and advisories around the country to registered users. Conversely, subscribers may request for other information such as promos and emergency numbers on demand.

“We are very much honored and privileged to have Smart as our partner,” said Ma. Cynthia Lazo, DOT director for tourism and planning. “With this tie-up, we hope that everyone would have more chances to travel around the Philippines.”

According to Lazo, there were a total of 23 million tourists who traveled around the country in 2009. The DOT hopes to increase that number to 32 million by 2015.

The turnover ceremony took place at the Puerto Princesa provincial capitol. The Smart-sponsored event featured a talent show and several games where members of the audience got the chance to take home premium Smart items.

“We are also very happy to help the DOT in its efforts to promote local tourism,” said Smart community solutions department manager Louie de Guzman. “The Philippines is such a wonderful place and we are glad to be part of this endeavor.”

The special DOT SIM features the Rice Terraces of the Cordilleras — one of the natural wonders of the world. The special edition SIM is scheduled to be available within the next few weeks.

The DOT is also scheduled to launch the Infoboard service at the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City this August. Launches in other major tourist hotspots will also take place soon.