Tourism groups see fresh start with Puyat’s appointment

MANILA, Philippines — There is renewed optimism among industry stakeholders for the growth of the tourism sector with the appointment of Agriculture Undersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat as secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Network of Independent Travel Agencies vice president Angel Ramos Bognot told The STAR the appointment of Puyat is “a fresh start” after the controversies that rocked the department.

“The whole travel and tourism industry is rejoicing over the appointment of DOT Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat. She’s viewed to have a head on her shoulders, impeccable personality and good family background,” Bognot said.

“She’s young and energetic…(can) make the Philippines the tourism wonder in Asia,” Bognot added.

President Duterte appointed Puyat as the new tourism secretary last Tuesday, after former secretary Wanda Teo was reported to have been fired.

Teo claimed she resigned out of delicadeza following a controversy generated by the DOT’s ad placements in her brother’s television program.

Prior to her appointment, Puyat worked at the Department of Agriculture for 12 years. She will leave her position as undersecretary for administration, agribusiness and marketing and regional engagement at the DA.

Bognot said the new DOT chief’s experience in farm and culinary tourism may give birth to new vibrant tour products for the Philippines.

“We are all hoping for the best partnership between the private and government sectors for the benefit of all,” Bognot said.

Tourism Congress of the Philippines president Jojo Clemente echoed Bognot’s sentiments as he welcomed Puyat’s appointment.

“She has a proven track record at the DA and with impeccable credentials in the academe as well,” Clemente said.

“We look forward to closely working with her to get tourism back on track. We hope to be able to meet with her as soon as she settles in and discuss matters of import,” Clemente added.

Meanwhile, Rajah Travel and Tours president Aileen Clemente told The STAR she is hoping the newly-appointed secretary understands how important her task is.

“Without prejudice to whoever is appointed, I just hope that he/she knows that the most important task is for tourism to really be propelled to be a leading industry, with the full understanding of its total impact on the nation, not just in economic returns but also social and environmental impacts,” she said.

“It’s not as simple as everyone thinks. It’s a lot of science and art put together in navigating tourism,” she added.

Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) president Marlene Jante also expressed hope the new DOT chief will be open to hearing out concerns of the private sector.