DOT recognizes Negros tourism frontliners

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) commitment to supporting the country’s frontline tourism workers by personally distributing curated tour guide kits to 40 DOT-accredited guides in Negros Occidental on Wednesday, June 11.

The initiative took place on the sidelines of the Tourism Champions Challenge (TCC) groundbreaking ceremony and forms part of the agency’s broader campaign to empower guides across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao under the flagship Love the Philippines branding.

“Our tour guides are the storytellers of our nation. Through their knowledge and passion, they bring our culture, heritage, and destinations to life,” Secretary Frasco said. “This is our small way of honoring and empowering them—the best asset of Philippine tourism.”

Each eco-friendly kit included practical essentials designed to enhance visitor engagement: a lapel microphone, bamboo sunglasses, sunblock, tumbler, and a journal. In addition, Frasco went beyond her official mandate by personally funding PHP 50,000 worth of accident insurance for each of the 30 community guides and 10 regional guides.

The gesture was met with deep appreciation from the recipients. Tour guide Nathan Rio, speaking on behalf of the group, expressed gratitude to the Secretary. “We are reminded today that we are not just tour guides—we are partners in nation-building,” he said.

This marks another milestone in DOT’s ongoing efforts to professionalize and elevate the role of tourism workers, ensuring they are better equipped and recognized as key players in national development.