DoT accreditation for Boracay establishments still voluntary

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

The accreditation of tourism-related establishments in Boracay Island is not yet mandatory and compulsory from the Department of Tourism (DoT), despite the clear-cut provisions of Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009.

Boracay tourism officer Artemio Ticar said some 50 establishments in the resort-island have applied voluntarily for accreditation with DoT.

But, these figures are far less compared to the substantial number of hotels, restaurants, accommodations and resorts, local tourism facilities or businesses operating in Boracay Island. 

“Di pa compulsory ang accreditation ng DoT, but, we have a memorandum of agreement ang DoT and ang League of Municipalities of the Philippines para gawing compulsory na,” Ticar said.

“Hinihintay namin na maimplement ang memorandum of agreement para lahat accredited na.”

Ticar said establishments applying for accreditations have to pass the standards of the tourism department. The establishments undergo regular inspections of its facilities and amenities including the hotel rooms, kitchen, dining, security, closed-circuit cameras and generator set.

Ticar said the DOT accreditation also offers non-fiscal benefits and incentives.

"Free promotion and marketing here and abroad, can attend DoT training and seminars, exempted from the liquor ban during election, can join sales mission abroad and can apply for tax exemption in buying equipments and materials from abroad are some of the benefits for being accredited by the DoT," he added.

As this developed, the local government of Malay has yet to consider for establishments to present accreditation certificates from DoT in the renewal of their business permits.

“They need lang business permits para maka pag operate,” Ticar clarified. 

The accreditation is a certificate issued for complying the DoT’s minimum standards in its operation to ensure that accredited tourism services and facilities are at par and competitive with the rest of the world.

The Tourism Act of 2009 provides for the development and enforcement of a comprehensive system for mandatory accreditation of primary tourism enterprises, and voluntary accreditation of secondary tourism enterprises.