‘PIOs, tourism officers play a critical role in PH peace, dev’t efforts’

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) — Department of Tourism (DOT) Assistant Sec. Judilyn S. Quiachon said public information officers and tourism officers play a critical role in the country’s peace and development efforts.

“Through the information and tourism officers, the government’s peace agenda is communicated effectively, reaching every community member and tourists alike,” she added.

Quiachon gave the keynote message on behalf of DOT Sec. Christina Garcia-Frasco during the second day of the 26th Regional Association of Development Information Officers (RADIO) 7 held at the Negros Oriental Convention Center in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

On behalf of Frasco, Quiachon thanked the tourism officers in the region for continuously promoting the sustainable tourism industry in the region.

She lauded the dedication and commitment shown by the PIOs and tourism officers in effectively communicating the message of peace, development, and sustainability in Central Visayas.

Quiachon described the role of PIOs and tourism officers as not just about sharing information but also about inspiring trust, confidence, and a shared sense of purpose among our communities.

More than 100 PIOs and local government unit tourism officers from Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor gathered in Dumaguete City on Sept. 4 to 6 for the three-day convention.

RADIO-7 is the umbrella organization of five associations of PIOs in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

Importance of peace, development, sustainability in tourism

The theme of this year’s conference, “Communicating the Government’s Peace Agenda to Push for Sustainable Tourism Development and Beyond,” could not be more relevant, according to the DOT official.

“Peace is the foundation upon which any form of development is build, especially in tourism,” Quiachon said.

“When communities feel safe and secure, they become places where visitors are welcome, and opportunities for growth and prosperity abound. By integrating peace, development, and sustainability into our tourism efforts, we are setting the stage for a brighter future for Central Visayas – one where tourism thrives, cultures are celebrated, and our natural resources are protected for generations to come,” Quiachon added.

DOT efforts and programs

Quiachon shared some of the significant efforts that underscore DOT’s dedication towards peace, which includes championing efforts to end local armed conflict and foster peace, as chairperson of the RTF-ELCAC.

DOT’s other ongoing program for peace also includes the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) program, Tourist Police Assistance Centers (TPAC), Barangay Tanod sa Turismo and the TourISM WoRCS (Tourism Integrates, Supports, and Minds Women’s Rights and Child Safety.)

For development, Quiachon cited the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence which continues to elevate the level of hospitality and services that the visitors experience, the Philippine Experience Program which highlights the rich cultural heritage of the regions and the Tourism Champions Challenge, and the establishment of Tourist Rest Areas that underscore DOT’s commitment to improving tourism infrastructure and creating welcoming spaces for all travelers.

As to sustainability, Quiachon shared the revision of the 2012 National Accreditation Standards (NAS) by the Office of Tourism Standards and Regulations-Standards Development Division that ensures that the department’s regulations align with industry trends and the realities of a post-pandemic era.

The revised NAS, approved as memorandum circular no. 2024-0002, represents DOT’s commitment to raising the standards of hotels, resorts, and apartment hotels, according to Quiachon. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

DOT Asec. Judilyn S. Quiachon during the 26th RADIO-7 Convention encourage the PIOs and tourism officers to continue communicating the message of peace, develop innovative solutions, and push for sustainable tourism development as their contributions are vital to achieve shared vision for Central Visayas. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)