DOT, CCCI to hold briefing on new standards for hotels

CEBU, Philippines - In cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) will conduct a briefing on the new accreditation standards for hotels, resorts, and apartment hotels today at 1 PM at the Sarrosa International Hotel.

Supporting the thrust of the tourism industry, the activity aims to maximize awareness on the minimum standards for accreditation and the appropriate rules and regulations governing the operation of primary and secondary tourism enterprises. 

DOT director of tourism standards and regulations Maria Rica Bueno will serve as the resource speaker for today’s event. She would provide industry players with the overview and further details on the new standards governing the sector.

Last May 2 of last year, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. signed the DOT Memorandum Circular 2012-02 that states the rules to govern the mandatory accreditation of accommodation establishments to promulgate the national accommodation standards that prescribed the set of requirements and standards needed for the operations and maintenance of accommodation facilities catering to foreign and local tourists.

This is pursuant to the authority vested to DOT by the Republic Act 9593, otherwise known as the National Tourism Act of 2009.

This is also in relation towards the intention of the department to upgrade the tourism accommodations in the country and be at par with international ratings standards.

It has adopted a new “five star grading system”, a points-based rating system that is based on inventory, availability, condition, quality of a specific facility, and service.

CCCI highly encouraged business players engaged in the hospitality industry to attend and take active participation in today’s briefing. There will be a minimal participation fee of P500 for each attendee. — (FREEMAN)