The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday, May 6 expressed "grave concern and dismay" with tourism establishments that continue to violate health and safety protocols that had been set by the government amid the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
This, after the DOT received a report about a hotel and resort in Toril district, Davao City that served alcoholic drinks to guests despite the liquor ban.
It also hosted 60 guests--35 guests beyond the limit of 25 imposed by the local government unit (LGU).
On top of all this, the establishment--which the department didn't identify--wasn't even supposed to operate in the first place since it doesn't have a business permit.
Meanwhile, DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat recognized the quick action of the Davao City LGU and the local tourism office against the erring resort.
Puyat also reiterated her directive to DOT regional offices for them to work closely with LGUs in ensuring that accommodation establishments across the country observe the required health and safety protocols.
"The DOT calls on our local tourism offices and the LGUs to continue to be vigilant in monitoring our tourism establishments," Puyat said.
"It is only by strictly enforcing these restrictions in close coordination with the local government units can we hasten the revival and survival of the tourism industry," she added.