By Roel Amazona/Philippine News Agency
TACLOBAN CITY — As the influx of tourists in Eastern Visayas is expected to continue this summer, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reminded visitors anew to continue observing safety measures.
DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Tiopes advised tourists to do research and plan safety measures before visiting the region’s destinations.
“We urge tourists to ensure packing important things like first-aid kits, dry bags, hygiene kits, sunscreen, and flashlights. They should follow the warning signs for safety and constantly drink water or juice to avoid heatstroke,” Tiopes told reporters on Monday.
The tourism official also reminded tourist and visitors to always practice sustainable and responsible tourism by minimizing the use of plastic so as not to contribute to the mounting problem of solid waste disposal.
“Strictly follow the carrying capacity and imposition of do’s and don’ts particularly in tourism sites like protected areas such as small islands,” Tiopes said.
The tourism department also reminded tourists to wear life jackets when crossing oceans, swim with lifeguards, dispose of trashes properly, and avoid polluting bodies of water.
The DOT activated its Holy Week Visitor Assistance Desk operations at the Tacloban Airport from April 17 to 20 to serve tourists. It estimated that tourists make up at least 80 percent of arriving air passengers in this city this time of the year.
“Having a visitor assistance desk is indeed a big help to travelers. While some may not ask questions, many refer to maps and brochures,” Tiopes said.
“As tourism front liners, assisting guests also give us a sense of fulfillment. Knowing that the information materials, facilitation and travel tips we gave help make their trips pleasant and convenient is enough to make us smile,” she said.
The DOT official urged local tourism offices to ensure the full preparation of tourist assistant desks to accommodate queries from visitors this summer.
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