Here is how to apply for DOT accreditation of tourism establishments.
Department of Tourism released its accreditation guidelines for reopening of tourism establishments under a more relaxed quarantine.
On Saturday, June 13, 2020, the DOT issued interim guidelines for the application of accreditation for tourism enterprises.
The guidelines also cover hotels, resorts, apartment hotels, Mabuhay accommodations, and homestays. The accreditation is free.
How to Apply for DOT accreditation
Except for tour guides and homestays, all tourism enterprises applying for certification for the first time are required to submit the following documentary requirements:
- Accomplished application form which need not be notarized;
- Accomplished self-assessment form;
- Valid mayor’s or business permit; and
- Sworn statement of the undertaking.
The following are the documentary requirements for tourism enterprises’ renewal applications for DOT accreditation:
- Accomplished application form, which need not be notarized;
- Mayor’s or business permit issued either the current year or the previous year; and
- Sworn statement of the undertaking.
Also read: Bars, spas, leisure facilities allowed in MGCQ areas-DOT
Authorities would conduct a physical inspection of the establishment’s premises as part of the accreditation process and ensure that it complies with minimum public health standards.
If a physical inspection is not possible, a virtual inspection would be conducted, in which case the accommodation establishment shall be issued a provisional accreditation.
DOT would issue a certificate of accreditation to a tourism enterprise that:
- Is found to be compliant with minimum public health standards, as well as both necessary and minimum standards for the operation of tourism facilities and services; and
- Has undergone physical inspection of its premises.
The certificate of accreditation would be valid for two years and would be renewable after that unless sooner revoked for cause.
Meanwhile, a certificate of provisional accreditation would be issued to a tourism enterprise that:
- Is found to be compliant with minimum public health standards, as well as both basic and minimum standards for the operation of tourism facilities and services; and
- Has undergone a virtual inspection of its premises.
The certificate of provisional accreditation shall be valid for one year and shall be renewable after that unless sooner revoked for cause.
A certificate of registration shall be issued to a tourism enterprise that is found to be compliant with only the basic requirements for the operation of tourism facilities and services.
The certificate of registration is valid for one year unless sooner revoked for cause.
All documentary requirements may be requested from and submitted personally or via e-mail to the DOT Regional Office with jurisdiction over the area where the tourism enterprise has its official address.