PRA, DOT to launch new initiative

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), the “Pulse and Voice of the Philippine Retail Industry” is set to launch today a new initiative dubbed “Lakbay-Turo Para sa Micro Tourism” to ensure that the country’s retail sector is well equipped and fully prepared to serve local and foreign tourists according to global norms.

PRA president Lorenzo “Enchong” C. Formoso, COO of Duty Free Philippines, said the one-day seminar for micro-retailers will be conducted in different tourist areas of the country in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) with its successful “More Fun in the Philippines” campaign in the country and around the world. 

“This project aims to help micro and small retailers in key tourist areas by upgrading their skills and competencies in operations and customer service, to help them serve their customers-- local and foreign tourists alike – better and also grow their businesses,” Formoso said.
The PRA-DOT program is part of the retail sector’s preparation for the country’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) meeting next year, as well as the Asean Economic Integration happening in end- 2015.
Formoso said the “Lakbay-Turo Para sa Micro Tourism” program will be launched in Legaspi City.

The first one-day seminar for micro retailers will be held at the La Piazza Hotel, Legaspi City today.

“The world’s focus will be on the Philippines during the APEC meeting here next year so we have to make sure even the micro and small retailers will be at par with the global standards when it comes to quality and service. We should be able to seize the moment when all eyes are on us,” Formoso added.

He said each seminar that the PRA and DOT will conduct as part of the program will be carefully planned and executed, particularly the line-up of speakers and topics, so the participating micro retailers will learn and benefit from them.

For inquiries, call the PRA secretariat at 6874180, 6874181, 6874985 or email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or visit its website at www.philretailers.com, www.2015APRCEMANILA.com.ph.