CEBU CITY – The Department of Tourism (DoT) is strongly urging companies engaged in tourism-related development activities to seek accreditation from the agency in order for them to conform to international tourism standards.

DoT Undersecretary Phineas Alburo Monday said the accreditation is in compliance with Republic Act (RA) 9593 or the National Tourism Act of 2009. The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of RA 9593 is expected to be approved next month and mandatory accreditation will begin next year, Alburo added.

“DoT will give a list to the local government units (LGUs) of companies that have not applied for accreditation with the Department and advice them not to renew their Mayor’s permit unless they get themselves accredited,” he disclosed in an interview.

“The accreditation does not discriminate against small players,” Alburo warned.

The accreditation covers accommodation facilities ranging from five-star hotel and resorts to home-stay operators.

Alburo said companies urged to seek accreditation are hotels, pension houses, restaurants, resorts and tourist transportation operators.

The benefit for these industry players, he said, “is for them to maximize their business by being more conscious of what the international market needs.”

“Tourism is more than just a business. It’s a commitment you make to your people, your locality and to the country. When you present the Philippines or your province to these domestic and foreign tourists, you do so with pride. That is why it is very important to be accredited,” Alburo said.

He bared that once the IRR is approved by Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, the DoT will convene a Tourism Congress before yearend to elect in full the board of directors of the Tourism Promotions Board.