Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) director, Atty. Helen J. Catalbas, recently called on local tourism officials to prepare various attractions and facilities as the region seeks to expand their reach in the cruise ship circuit.

“Our goal is to take good care of [tourists] during their stay here in our region; make them feel that Western Visayas is their home away from home,” she said. “Our attractions should have facilities that are tourist-friendly and services that showcase Filipino warmth.”

The director recently concluded an inspection in Antique, where the province is looking to implement new cruise itineraries, along with “drive tourism circuits,” an expansion to the cruise ship circuit.

Among the inspection team included representatives from the Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Red Cross, Local Government Unit Disaster Risk Reduction Management team, along with local tour guides, media and DOT-6 tourism development area managers.

Meanwhile, the agency will also be intensifying their Tourism Industry Skills Program (TISP).

“Having well-trained tourism frontliners and providers in our region would definitely make tourism sustainable,” Catalbas explained.

Trainings include subjects such as language, food/beverage service, water safety, tourist reception, among other topics./WDJ