The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) are set to collaborate on the development of tourist courts, aiming to address and expedite the resolution of tourist-related incidents in the Philippines. On October 11, 2024, DOT Secretary Christina Frasco and newly appointed DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla met to discuss the details of this significant inter-agency project. Both leaders, with strong backgrounds in local governance, expressed their commitment to enhancing the country’s tourism sector through better law enforcement and judicial systems.
Secretary Frasco, who initiated the proposal during a sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., explained that tourist courts would involve the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the DILG. Their main role would be to investigate and prosecute crimes specifically related to tourists, ensuring faster resolution of cases. The concept is modeled after similar systems already in place in countries like Thailand, China, and the United Arab Emirates—destinations known for their high tourist influx.
During the meeting, Secretary Remulla suggested that pilot programs be launched in densely populated tourist destinations. He also emphasized the importance of identifying the types of offenses and offenders to properly execute the initiative. Remulla, newly appointed but no stranger to the workings of local governance as a former governor of Cavite, pledged DILG's full support in ensuring the success of the project, stating, “We will help you.”
Additionally, the two leaders discussed enhancing the National Tourism Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) Program, a long-running collaboration between the two agencies. This program aims to strengthen police presence and security in key tourist areas. Secretary Remulla suggested making TOPCOP training a mandatory part of police preparation, further integrating it into law enforcement efforts. DOT also supports this initiative through its training programs for barangay officials and intelligence networks, which act as police multipliers.
Another key issue raised was the accreditation of tourism enterprises and establishments, which requires close coordination with local government units (LGUs). The DOT also highlighted the importance of its tourist assistance call center, which serves as a platform for addressing tourist inquiries and concerns. This is part of a broader effort to ensure that tourists feel safe and supported during their stay in the Philippines.
The meeting also touched on other collaborative initiatives between the DOT and LGUs, such as the construction of Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) and Tourist First Aid Facilities (TFAFs), aimed at improving the overall experience and safety of tourists.
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