DOT and DOST Partner for Science-Based Innovations in Tourism

The Philippines' tourism industry is set to benefit from a groundbreaking collaboration between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). On August 28, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. signed agreements to launch two key initiatives that aim to integrate science-based innovations into the sector.

The first agreement, a memorandum of understanding (MOU), introduces the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP). This initiative is focused on developing communities that are smart, sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.

The DOT and DOST will work together to promote cutting-edge, sustainable technologies, deliver transformative science and technology products, build capacity, and advocate for policies that ensure lasting impact and sustainability.

The second agreement, a memorandum of agreement (MOA), centers on the development of the TourLISTA 2.0 application. This web-based tool is designed to analyze and assess tourist arrivals, providing real-time data to support more informed decision-making within the tourism sector. The application was previously piloted by DOT-Mimaropa and is expected to enhance the effectiveness of tourism management across the country.

Tourism Secretary Frasco highlighted the importance of innovation in the DOT’s programs, noting that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision for tourism involves not just recovery, but transformation.

The goal is to position the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse by capitalizing on the country's rich culture, heritage, and identity.

DOST Secretary Solidum emphasized that the partnership underscores the government's commitment to sustainability. He also presented DOST-developed "halal modules," which are intended to support the DOT’s initiatives to upskill Filipino tourism workers.

This collaboration between DOT and DOST marks a significant step forward in the modernization and sustainability of the Philippine tourism industry through the strategic application of science and technology.