Mobile accreditation for tour guides

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Tourism -7 will conduct a mobile accreditation for tour guides on Camotes Islands in preparation for the expected influx of tourists this summer.

Regional Director Shahlimar Hofer Tamano said that it is their way of ensuring that quality experience and services are given to the guests by trained guides.

He said the activity will not be limited only to Camotes Islands. He assured that DOT-7 will be going to far-flung destinations in the region so applicants won't have to travel for several hours and find themselves coming back again due to lack of documentary requirements.

According to Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, the minimum requirements are being able to communicate well in English and good interpersonal skills since often times the guides would be handling guests who cannot speak the native tongue.

Both DOT and the Capitol wish to highlight the importance of cleanliness and safety in light of the recent issues confronting the tourism industry in the country today such as the Boracay closure and the incident in Siargao when an injured tourist was not immediately given first aid treatment.

Moreover, DOT-7 will hold a series of trainings for the tour guides in response to the request of the Capitol to ensure the readiness of the destinations to cater guests and respond in case of emergency.

"We will incorporate more training like safety. Isaka nato ang tourism standards sa atong industry," Tamano said.

He said that the tourism department will talk with representatives from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) on what they can do with DOT and the Capitol to ensure the tourists' safety and satisfaction.

"A happy tourist is one who arrives home safe," he stressed.

The training for the guides on Camotes Island is also in preparation for the provincial government's Suroy-Suroy sa Sugbo, which will be hosted by the islands’ four towns. The tour is scheduled for April 21 and 22. —FPL (FREEMAN)