Frasco
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has appealed to hotels, resorts, and other tourism enterprises across the country to uphold ethical and compassionate business practices as several regions reel from recent floods and earthquakes.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the true spirit of Filipino hospitality must shine through in times of crisis, reminding establishments that the tourism industry is built on service, not exploitation.
“Tourism should be a platform for compassion and resilience,” Frasco stressed. “We urge all tourism enterprises, especially those accredited by the DOT, to act with integrity and empathy. Guests, evacuees, and responders deserve fair treatment, safety, and dignity — not inflated prices or denied services.”
The statement follows reports of overpricing and unfair practices affecting travelers and tourism workers in calamity-hit areas. Frasco emphasized that hotels, restaurants, and related establishments should not take advantage of the situation by unreasonably increasing rates or withholding services. Instead, she encouraged businesses to adopt flexible and considerate policies on booking cancellations and rebookings, especially for guests stranded or affected by the disasters.
The DOT also urged establishments to be transparent with their guests regarding the current state of their facilities, particularly if there are damages or service disruptions caused by flooding or tremors.
Frasco noted that the Department is coordinating closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and local government units (LGUs) — especially in Cebu and other affected areas — to ensure compliance with fair pricing rules and to provide assistance to both tourists and residents.
“Now, more than ever, we must show that the Filipino brand of service shines brightest in adversity,” Frasco said. “Let us stand together in compassion, fairness, and integrity as we help our communities recover.”
The DOT continues to monitor the situation alongside national agencies and LGUs as the country braces for the effects of Typhoon Uwan. The public may report concerns involving DOT-accredited establishments through the DOT Tourist Assistance Call Center via Hotline 151-TOUR (151-8687), mobile 0954-253-3215, Facebook (Department of Tourism – Philippines), email (touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph), or live chat at www.tourism.gov.ph.
Frasco concluded, “In these challenging times, let us embody what it truly means to be Filipino — resilient, compassionate, and fair. Our hospitality is not just a service; it is our way of helping others find hope and comfort, even in the storm.”