By Analou De Vera The Department of Tourism (DOT) has reiterated the initiative of the Interior department that calls on local government units to ensure the accreditation of primary tourism enterprises (PTEs) in their jurisdiction. (MANILA BULLETIN) In its memorandum last week, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) reiterated the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9593 or Tourism Act of 2009, indicating that PTEs such as hotels, resorts, inns, and other accommodation establishments are required to secure accreditation from the DOT for issuance of license or permit to operate. "This is a welcome development as it further establishes the relevance of the DOT Accreditation among PTEs which includes travel and tour agencies, tourist transport operators, tourism front liners, and convention and exhibition organizers," the DOT said in a statement. The DOT Accreditation is a certification issued to tourism enterprises after having complied with the minimum standards for the operation of tourism facilities and services. The DILG memorandum states that “LGUs have to ensure that all PTEs have complied with and have obtained DOT accreditation before operations.” "The DOT through its regional offices is excited to work with all LGUs in ensuring strict compliance by tourism enterprises with the accreditation rules and regulations," the tourism department said. Moreover, the DOT vowed that it will continue working on the "shared responsibilities as mandated by the Tourism Act of 2009:" LGU capacity-building in partnership with the private sector, travel advisories, local tourism promotion, resources inventory, destination development, standard setting, and regulatory enforcement. As of December 31, 2018, a total of 6,108 primary tourism enterprises and 772 secondary tourism enterprises have been accredited nationwide, said the DOT.