Resort found sans biz permit, serving liquor, hosting 60 guests
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) praised the Davao City Tourism Office and the local government of Davao City for acting quickly against an erring resort in Toril, which was found to have allegedly violated health and safety restrictions.
This, after the said hotel was reported to have served liquor to guests despite the liquor ban and hosted 60 guests, beyond the limit of 25 imposed by the Davao City LGU. The establishment was also supposed to be closed for having no business permit.
Meanwhile, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat reiterated her directive to the Regional Offices of the DOT to work closely with the LGUs in ensuring that accommodation establishments across the country will observe the health and safety protocols called for by the quarantine levels established by the national and local governments.
The DOT called on local tourism offices and the LGUs to continue to be vigilant in monitoring our tourism establishments as it notes with grave concern and dismay, that some tourism establishments continue to violate the health and safety protocols established by the national government to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the country.
It is only by strictly enforcing these restrictions in close coordination with the local government units can we hasten the revival and survival of the tourism industry, Puyat stressed.
The DOT also yesterday called for the stricter monitoring and implementation of waste management protocols in tourist destinations, following the successful coastal cleanup initiative of the DOT Region XI, dubbed “Scubasurero: Stand up, save our reefs,” which collected over 300kg of garbage in the waters of Samal Island, Davao del Norte.
As embodied in the DOT’s Save our Spots (SOS) campaign, creating a culture of sustainable tourism begins with engaging others on responsible travel and involving more people to act for the preservation of our natural wonders.
While the Department is pleased that these water destinations, among many others, continue to attract visitors, the DOT also appeals to tourists and residents alike to maintain cleanliness and only leave trash in designated locations only.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the importance of sustainable tourism, with environmental protection as one of its major pillars. Compliance of the public with waste management protocols will help keep our waters clean, protect its rich marine life, and ensure its beauty will be retained for generations to come.
The DOT thanked its regional offices, other government agencies, members of the Philippine Coast Guard, and the private sector for their continuous efforts in conserving and protecting our natural resources.
