DOT slams unfair rebooking policies

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism slammed reports of overpricing and “unfair” rebooking and cancellation policies by some tourism businesses following recent calamities that disrupted operations in several parts of the country.

“The DOT has been receiving reports of alleged overpricing and unfair practices affecting travelers and tourism workers amid recent calamity-related disruptions,” the agency said in a statement yesterday.

Because of these reports, the DOT appealed to tourism enterprises nationwide to avoid “(imposing) unreasonable price increase for accommodation, restaurant services, or other tourism-related offerings.”

“The Department encourages all tourism enterprises to adopt fair and flexible policies for booking cancellations and rebookings, especially for guests affected by disrupted travel plans due to the calamity,” it said.

“Overpricing or denial of service in these circumstances runs counter to the spirit of hospitality and the principles that define the Filipino brand of service that we take pride in,” it added.