DOT, IBP launch free legal assistance for tourism stakeholders


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Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco delivers her speech during the newly launched nationwide legal assistance initiative providing accessible legal resources to support tourism stakeholders, particularly MSMEs, at the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Cebu City on Jan. 30, 2025. (Photo: DOT)

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) have launched a nationwide initiative to provide free legal assistance to tourism stakeholders, focusing on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and IBP National President Antonio C. Pido unveiled the program during the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Cebu City on Thursday, Jan. 30.

The partnership is designed to address the legal challenges faced by tourism businesses, ensuring they have access to the resources necessary for growth and stability, the DOT chief said.

Frasco explained that the program aims to empower tourism stakeholders, particularly MSMEs, by making legal support more accessible and fostering a more inclusive, sustainable tourism industry.

“This collaboration symbolizes the power of unity in addressing critical needs, ensuring that justice and legal assistance are regularly accessible to tourism stakeholders,” she said.

Under the initiative, IBP chapters nationwide will provide legal services to tourism stakeholders, while the program also envisions the creation of 24/7 tourist courts in key destinations to swiftly resolve tourism-related legal matters.

Frasco commended IBP for its role in strengthening the legal framework within the tourism sector, emphasizing that the partnership not only provides legal aid but also nurtures the industry’s long-term sustainability.

In addition to legal assistance, the partnership offers IBP members a virtual Privilege Card, which provides discounts from DOT-accredited MSMEs, encouraging both tourism and exploration of the country’s diverse destinations.

The two-year agreement also allows IBP to incorporate the “Love The Philippines” branding in its marketing materials to further promote the nation’s tourism offerings.

Pido expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential impact, noting that it will benefit both the legal and tourism sectors, and emphasized that the partnership will empower members while supporting the growth of the tourism industry.