DOT sets nationwide education drive on tourism development

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has set up a tourism development education program for various sectors in potential tourist destinations across the archipelago.

Dubbed "Best Practices: Models for Tourism," the program is aimed at providing the much-needed insight and experience on the best practices in effective destination management.

The program is intended for local government units, hotels and resorts, event organizers and tourism-related establishments aspiring to develop world-class tourism events and services.

To be conducted at different destinations each month, the training is comprehensive and customized to the needs of the local setting.

Scheduled on July 15-17 for Bantayan Island and Cebu province is a course on Beach and Adventure Tourism.

The same three-day course will be held in Dumaguete City on July 28-30 for the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

Through a case study format with one-on-one private feedback sessions, the training involves the development of an effective and powerful brand image for the destination, successful hosting, organizing and marketing international events, designing new and creative festivals and special events, and creating and sustaining a tourist-friendly culture.

The topics include event design, effective event hosting and management, branding and tourism, culture and tourism, tours development and packaging, and advertising and marketing collaterals.

Speakers and facilitators are Tourism Undersecretary Oscar Palabyab, National Commission for Culture and the Arts executive director Alice Panares, Waterfront Philippines president Patrick Gregorio, Philippine Tour Operators Association president Raquel Boncan, AdMix Inc. president Angelito Pagayon, Marsman Tours and Travel Corp. vice president and general manager Arnie Bayag, and Juan Ramos of the University of the Philippines College of Music.