DepEd eager to help Philippine tourism industry

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Education has long been looking for ways the  public school system could contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism industry, Education Secretary Armin Luistro said.

“Even before the new campaign slogan [was launched], we’ve had talks with DoT (Department of Tourism) in identifying potential and actual tourism sites,” Luistro said.

The education chief gave this response to the Inquirer when asked how the department could help promote the country’s new tourism campaign.

Luistro said DepEd was looking at “redesigning” schools and campuses so that they would exude their local identity.  DepEd also plans to restore old schools identified as heritage sites.

He said education department was also looking at integrating skills development in the planned revamp of the high school curriculum  under the “Kindergarten to 12” program, the flagship education project to lengthen the basic education cycle from 10 to 12 years.

DepEd could also offer foreign language training to develop communication skills of budding tourist guides, Luistro said.