As Typhoon “Emong” and Tropical Storm “Dante” batter parts of the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is stepping up to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists and tourism workers affected by the severe weather.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the agency’s commitment during a National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo. She reported that over 1,000 tourists—mostly in Regions 8 and 10—have been left stranded due to canceled flights and ferry trips. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties have been reported.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Secretary Frasco immediately convened a Tourism Emergency Response Operations Meeting with regional offices and attached agencies. She stressed the importance of quick, coordinated action:
“These times call for our Department and its agencies to rally together in support of the affected regions. Our sector doesn’t typically respond to weather disruptions in this way, but it’s critical that we step in now to anticipate needs and provide short- and medium-term support,” she said.
Tourism sites and businesses hit hard
Regional updates painted a clear picture of the impact on the tourism sector:
- Intramuros, while now passable, saw several heritage sites affected by flooding, including Fort Santiago and Baluarte San Diego. Secretary Frasco has ordered the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to work with the Intramuros Administration in assessing the damage and ensuring preservation efforts.
- In CALABARZON, damage in Montalban, Rizal includes compromised trails and tourism infrastructure, with initial losses reaching ₱2.8 million, including income and livelihood disruptions.
- The MIMAROPA region reported over ₱264,000 in damages to accommodations and travel services in El Nido, while boat damage in Coron reached ₱550,000. Numerous tours were also cancelled, further affecting local earnings.
Secretary Frasco instructed all DOT regional offices to stay in constant coordination with local government units, national agencies, and affected tourism stakeholders to deliver swift assistance and relief.
Tourist Hotline Open 24/7
The DOT also reminded the public that its Tourist Assistance Call Center (TACC) is fully operational around the clock to support tourists and tourism-related businesses in need.
TACC Contact Channels:
- Hotline: 151-TOUR (151-8687)
- Phone/SMS: +63 954 253 3215
- Email: touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph
- Facebook Messenger: Department of Tourism – Philippines
- Website: www.tourism.gov.ph
The TACC features English-speaking agents, as well as Korean and Mandarin-speaking staff to cater to international travelers.
“The DOT is fully prepared to assist travelers during this difficult time,” said Secretary Frasco. “Through our 24/7 hotline and regional teams, we are here to ensure every tourist and stakeholder receives the help they need for a safe and smooth experience despite the challenges brought by the weather.”