Saturday, December 14, 2024

Tag: DOT-10

DOT-10 showcases Mindanao’s 1st travel hub in Bukidnon to boost tourism, MSMEs

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY (July 15, 2024/PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 reported that the opening of the tourist rest area (TRA) in the scenic town of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon marks the first TRA in Mindanao to enhance the travel experience for local and international visitors

Marie Elaine Unchuan, DOT regional director for northern Mindanao, said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas media forum on July 2 that the TRA sets a new benchmark for travelers’ comfort and convenience following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives to enhance the country’s tourism sector by improving facilities and resources that can significantly boost the economy.

“The tourist rest area opened in August last year and promises to redefine the journey for domestic and foreign tourists. Its clean, well-ventilated restrooms and inviting seating areas create a relaxing oasis for weary travelers,” she said.

With maps, guides, and expert tips, its information center is essential for tourists exploring northern Mindanao’s attractions.

Showcasing culture and local products

Unchuan said the TRA doubles as a vibrant shop, offering a selected range of local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs.

“Visitors can indulge in Bukidnon’s famous coffee, savor delectable pastries, or purchase unique keepsakes crafted by local artisans. It delights travelers and supports micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) along with other local businesses,” she added.

Beyond its Pasalubong center, the TRA showcases local artwork, such as paintings and intricate leaf carvings, enhancing atmospheric energy and displaying the region’s artistic talent.

Inclusive amenities for all needs

Multiculturalism and inclusivity are TRA’s design principles. It caters to diverse travelers’ needs. The lounge and charging stations provide a comfortable space for tourists to relax and recharge their devices.

The coffee shop offers a selection of beverages and snacks, perfect for a quick refreshment break.

The TRA offers family-friendly amenities such as clean restrooms with showers and a lactation room to cater to the needs of even the youngest travelers.

Strategic location for maximum convenience

Travelers exploring Bukidnon and nearby provinces will find TRA an ideal pit stop due to its strategic location at the crossroads of major travel routes. Its proximity to Misamis Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Sur enhances accessibility for visitors discovering the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Emalyn Cagolcol, a traveler from Valencia City, described the tourist rest area in Manolo Fortich as truly one of a kind.

“It was more than a mere rest stop. The facilities are not only clean and well-kept. It is also scenically situated amidst the serene landscapes of Bukidnon. It provided a much-needed break during our trip, allowing us to recharge and refresh ourselves before continuing our adventure,” she shared.

Manolo Fortich TRA is the second DOT-managed rest area in the country, following the successful model established in Medellin, Cebu.

“This TRA exemplifies DOT’s commitment to providing world-class facilities nationwide, ensuring travelers have access to modern and well-maintained facilities,” the DOT-10 regional director said. (Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

DOT-10 conducts orientation on online accreditation for tourism-related enterprises

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On July 14, 2023, the City of Malaybalay, under the leadership of City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran and through the City Tourism Office spearheaded by Ms. Honolu Marie C. Cruzin, partnered with the Department of Tourism Region 10 to conduct an orientation for Accreditation

This certification, issued by the Department, officially recognizes tourism enterprises that have complied with the minimum standards for the operation of tourism facilities and services under RA 9593, also known as the Tourism Act of 2009.

RA 9593 Section 14 c) mandates the enforcement of Mandatory Accreditation for primary tourism enterprises and voluntary accreditation for secondary tourism enterprises, in accordance with prescribed guidelines and standards. Section 14 d) aims to establish a system of registration, information, linkage, and mutual assistance among accredited tourism enterprises to enhance the value of accreditation and improve the quality of service rendered by such enterprises.

According to RA 9593 Section 17 a), Regional Offices are responsible for implementing laws, policies, plans, programs, rules, and regulations of the Department, particularly those relating to compliance and the accreditation of tourism enterprises promulgated by the Department.

In line with this, Memorandum Circular 2019-17 issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reiterates the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009. The circular indicates that primary tourism enterprises, including hotels, resorts, inns, and other accommodation establishments, are required to secure accreditation from the DOT to obtain a license or permit to operate.

Mr. Ariel Gabriel Estrada, the Standards and Accreditations Officer of DOT-10, facilitated the orientation and highlighted the benefits and importance of Accreditation by DOT to the participants. In the afternoon session, he assisted the participants in submitting their requirements for the Online Accreditation Application.

The newly introduced Online Accreditation System offers a contactless transaction and hazard-free government service, aiming to expedite accreditation requests from local tourism establishments.

Through this streamlined system, local businesses, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which collectively form the backbone of the tourism industry, will experience improved ease of doing business.

The orientation was well-attended, with a total of 80 participants. Councilor Royland M. Orquia, Committee Chairman on Tourism, warmly welcomed and expressed gratitude to everyone present during the orientation. (LGU Malaybalay)

DOT-10 launches limitless bike adventure in Normin

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 launched another limitless adventure in Northern Mindanao May 13, to attract more tourists to visit the region

Dubbed “Bike NorthMin,” the program aims to make bike tourism popular in the region and unleash its full potential in the tourism industry.
DOT-10 regional director Marie Elaine Unchuan said biking is one of the fastest-growing modes of transportation and recreational activity. It is also convenient, easy to use, low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
She said the campaign aims to encourage both the government and the private sector to invest in promoting and developing bike tourism, which can attract more visitors and create job opportunities for local communities.
“Bike tourism in the Philippines is an untapped potential that can generate economic growth and promote sustainable tourism. This allows tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the beauty of our region,” Unchuan further said.
To officially kick off “Bike NorthMin,” DOT-10, in partnership with the provincial government of Camiguin and Recreational Outdoor eXchange, is set to hold a 64-kilometer bike tour on the scenic island province of Camiguin on May 28, 2023.
Unchuan said more bike tours will be held in the region after the Camiguin Isle Bike Tour, adding that pilot bike sites and circuits have already been identified.
These include Cagayan de Oro City to Manolo Fortich, Cagayan de Oro City to Misamis Oriental, Claveria to Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental, Ozamiz City to Oroquieta City in Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte to Iligan City, and around Del Monte Plantation, among others.
Following the launch, Unchuan shared that DOT-10 would further collaborate with local government units to identify potential cycling routes and develop necessary infrastructure such as bike lanes and parking areas; promote new cycling routes in the region, and organize regular cycling events to encourage bike enthusiasts to explore the region’s natural beauty.
DOT-10 would also conduct road safety awareness programs to educate the public on safe cycling practices. (APB/PIA-10)