Department of Tourism, Region 2 and Philippine Coast Guard Forge Alliance to Elevate Maritime Tourism Safety Standards
The Department of Tourism, Region 2 (DOT-Region 2), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) formalized a pivotal partnership today by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aimed at bolstering safety standards for maritime-related tourism activities in the region. The MOA signing ceremony took place at the DOT Regional Office in Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, on December 4, 2023.
Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano of the Department of Tourism, Region 2, and Commander Capt. Ludovico D Librilla Jr. of the Philippine Coast Guard were the signatories to the MOA. The ceremony was witnessed by CG LTSG Atty. Renmarie Tagao – Morales, Legal Officer, Atty. Miguel Angelo Gangan, OIC Legal Officer and Senior Tourism Officer Romeo Caranguian, Jr., underscoring the significance of this strategic partnership.
The primary objective of this MOA is to establish a framework for cooperation between DOT R02 and PCG, emphasizing the joint commitment to fostering enhanced safety standards for maritime-related tourism activities.
In his statement, Commander Capt. Ludovico D Librilla Jr. expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The Philippine Coast Guard is dedicated to ensuring the safety of maritime activities, and this collaboration with the Department of Tourism aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we will work towards creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for tourists engaging in maritime adventures in Region 02.”
Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano of DOT R02 echoed these sentiments, saying, “Tourism is a vital economic driver for our region, and ensuring the safety of our tourists is paramount. This partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard is a significant step towards enhancing the safety standards of maritime tourism, and we are confident that it will have a positive impact on the industry.”
The collaboration will involve the sharing of expertise, resources, and information to develop and implement safety protocols, training programs, and awareness campaigns. Through this partnership, DOT-Region 2 and PCG aim to foster a culture of safety and responsibility, ensuring that the region’s maritime tourism industry adheres to the highest standards of security.
The collaboration is expected to set a precedent for similar initiatives nationwide, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the tourism industry in the Philippines.#