DOT to travelers: Practice responsible, sustainable tourism this Holy Week

Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat at the PDI office in Makati City. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / LEO M .SABANGAN II

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) reminded tourists and pilgrims on Wednesday to practice responsible and sustainable tourism this Holy Week.

In a statement, DOT requested that “travelers practice responsible tourism by respecting local traditions and practices.”

This includes observing silence in houses of prayer, avoiding the use of flash photography in churches and not taking photos of individuals without permission.

The DOT also encouraged sustainable tourism practices such as “properly managing one’s personal trash and avoiding single use plastics by bringing personal water tumblers and utensils.”

“Lent is an integral part of our national identity. It reflects our faith, history and traditions passed on by our forefathers. Pilgrims and tourists are encouraged to take part in this unique Philippine experience but to always be cautious about their personal safety and be respectful of others,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.

“We want to preserve and keep our Lenten traditions thriving. This is why we would invite everyone to practice sustainable tourism. This means being sensitive to the destinations we visit, respecting people’s traditions and practices as well as avoiding destruction of the environment,” she added.

The DOT also advised tourists and pilgrims to stay in shaded areas and hydrate in order to avoid heatstroke.

It suggested the public to bring water in reusable containers, an emergency kit and personal medications. /jpv

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