DOT-7 extends training program for frontliners

CEBU, Philippines —  The Department of Tourism (DOT-7) is extending its skills training for tourism frontliners this year, noting the influx of new hotels opening within the region.

DOT-7 regional director Shalimar Tamano made this announcement in preparation for the increased tourism personnel in Central Visayas, particularly frontliners who get to deal with tourists face-to-face.

Although the basic tourism training extended to stakeholders by the department has been there, Tamano said the program will be further intensified starting this year, focusing on the cities and towns where new hotels are opened or yet to open.

Tamano highlighted the entry of two tourism game changers—the newly opened Panglao International Airport and the Mactan International Airport Terminal 2 (T2), which will bring in more international direct flights, thereby tripling the volume of arrivals within the region.

Training programs will include teaching hotel frontliners the right and impressive culture of tourism, customer service, others.

Training programs for tour guides, taxi drivers, foreign language proficiency, among others will also be expanded.

In Cebu alone, at least 5,000 more hotel rooms will be added to the existing 10,000 room accommodation this year. This does not include the opening of hotels and resorts in Bohol, Negros and Siquijor.

Last year, DOT-7 conducted roughly 80 trainings in Central Visayas.  “There will be more this year,” Tamano concluded.