DOT vows ‘best practices’ are observed to welcome SEA Games visitors

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) assured Tuesday it is implementing the “best practices” in welcoming visitors arriving in the country for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

The DOT and its stakeholders from the Tourism Congress of the Philippines (TCP) “remain committed to implementing the best practices in welcoming international visitors to the Southeast Asian Games,” it said in a statement.

The DOT said its representatives are working with SEA Games’ local organizer Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) in “all airport reception and departure activities” for the event’s delegates.

“Together with the TCP, it is in touch with all hotels and related industries engaged in the SEA Games as part of our mandate overseeing and regulating all segments of the tourism industry,” DOT said.

“We call on everyone to unite and live up to the Filipino brand of service and fun that we are known for. Let us rise to the occasion and put our best foot forward,” it added.

At least four national football teams from other countries have encountered problems in terms of transportation and accommodation following their arrival in the country for the SEA Games.

Phisgoc have already apologized following several complaints from the foreign football teams.

But issues continue to pile up as concerns about inadequate food and insufficient halal food for the athletes were also raised.

The Philippines is hosting the SEA Games happening from November 30 to December 11.

Edited by JPV