DOT-Caraga Trains

29/05/2026

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga, in partnership with the Province of Surigao del Sur, successfully conducted the Tour Package Development and Delivery Seminar on May 18–21, 2026 in Tandag City. The four-day seminar gathered a total of 22 participants composed of Tourism Officers, Travel and Tour Agencies, and Tour Operators from the Province of Surigao del Sur, who were equipped with knowledge and practical skills in developing, packaging, marketing, and delivering quality tour products and services.

This capability-building activity forms part of the continuous efforts of the Department of Tourism to professionalize the tourism workforce and strengthen tourism planning, promotions, standards, and regulations through the Tourism Industry Skills Program. The seminar aimed to assist local tourism stakeholders in effectively packaging, operating, and managing tours for emerging and potential tourist destinations in the area while promoting service excellence rooted in Filipino hospitality.

The seminar featured comprehensive discussions and workshops facilitated by resource speaker Dr. Freddie A. Quinito, who shared valuable insights on tour package development, itinerary planning, tour operations, product marketing, and service delivery. Participants were guided through step-by-step procedures in creating competitive and market-ready tourism products that contribute to the growth of the tourism industry not only in the region but also in the Philippine tourism sector.

On the fourth day, a site validation activity was conducted to further assess and validate the tourism potential and readiness of selected destinations in the province. This activity served as an important step in aligning the developed tour packages with actual destination conditions and visitor experiences.

The successful conduct of the seminar reflects the strong collaboration between DOT Caraga and the Province of Surigao del Sur in empowering local tourism stakeholders and enhancing the quality of tourism services and products in the region. Through this initiative, participants are now better equipped to create innovative and sustainable tour experiences that showcase the beauty and culture of Surigao del Sur.

The Department of Tourism Caraga extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Province of Surigao del Sur for its invaluable support, partnership, and commitment to strengthening the tourism industry in the province. Their dedication and continued collaboration greatly contributed to the success of the seminar.

28/05/2026

𝗗𝗢𝗧 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga Region in partnership with the City Tourism Office of Surigao successfully conducted the seven-day Homestay Pilipinas Training held on May 20-26, 2026 at City Cultural Center, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.

It was participated by the homestay operators in the City Government of Surigao.

The Homestay Pilipinas Training is designed to strengthen community-based tourism initiatives by empowering local stakeholders to provide safe, comfortable, and culturally immersive experiences for visitors. Through this initiative, DOT Caraga continues its commitment to developing sustainable tourism opportunities, enhancing local livelihoods, and promoting Filipino hospitality at the grassroots level.

The seven-day training featured a series of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities facilitated by distinguished resource speakers and partner agencies. Ms. Marissa D. Manzano, DOT Homestay Trainer, led key sessions on homestay operations and standards, while Ms. Paula Mae A. Mirasol, DOT Certified FBSE Trainer, delivered sessions on service excellence anchored on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE), emphasizing the importance of delivering warm, genuine, and globally competitive service.

Partner agencies also contributed specialized sessions to further enrich the participants’ learning experience. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Caraga conducted discussions on First Aid, Emergency Response, and Referral Systems, including basic first aid procedures. The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga facilitated sessions on Tourist Safety and Security Measures, highlighting emergency protocols and the preparation of a Basic Go Bag or Survival Kit. Meanwhile, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga provided essential insights on Legal Information and Data Privacy, ensuring responsible handling of guest information. In addition, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga delivered practical sessions on Cleaning and Sanitation Procedures, Basic House Decoration, and exercises highlighting local culture through Filipinization. These sessions emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, enhancing aesthetic appeal, and showcasing local identity to create authentic and memorable guest experiences.

DOT Caraga extends its heartfelt gratitude to the City Government of Surigao through Mayor Pablo Yves L. Dumlao II for his unwavering support in the successful implementation of this training.

The 7-Day Homestay Pilipinas Training underscored the strong collaboration between DOT Caraga, the Surigao City Tourism Office, and partner agencies in cultivating resilient, tourism-ready communities. With newly skilled homestay operators, Surigao City is now positioned to deliver service-driven, culturally immersive accommodations that embody authentic Filipino hospitality and elevate the city’s appeal as a premier destination.

27/05/2026

𝗗𝗢𝗧 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝟮 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗕𝗦𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗦𝗨 - 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮

Today, May 27, 2026, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga Regional Office in partnership with the North Eastern Mindanao State University – Tagbina Campus is currently conducting two batches of training on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur. The activity gathers first-year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management students who are actively participating in discussions and learning sessions designed to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the tourism and hospitality industry.

The training aims to capacitate the students with a deeper understanding of the tourism industry and the importance of embodying excellent service and hospitality while fostering national identity in providing globally competitive service to visitors. Through lecture-discussions and audio-visual presentations, the participants are exploring the 7Ms of Filipino Values, service excellence touchpoints, and the significance of understanding guest needs and expectations through effective communication processes. They are also learning service recovery strategies and practicing the Mabuhay Greeting as future tourism professionals.

The activity highlights how genuine Filipino hospitality shapes meaningful and memorable guest experiences. It further instills in students a commitment to professionalism, a deep pride in their culture, and the spirit of genuine Filipino hospitality.

Resource speakers for the two batches conducted simultaneously were Ms. Marian Jill del Rosario Castrence and Ms. Paula Mae A. Mirasol, both certified FBSE trainers who shared their expertise and valuable insight on delivering quality service excellence in the tourism and hospitality industry.

27/05/2026

𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐄-𝐓 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐨

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga successfully conducted the first batch of the Tourism WORCS Training: Detection of Red Flags and Reporting Mechanisms for DOT-Accredited Tourism-Related Enterprises (TREs) in Siargao on May 25, 2026, as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen safe, fair, and protection-sensitive tourism practices in the region.

The activity gathered DOT-accredited Tourism-Related Enterprises (TREs), particularly frontline tourism personnel of Accommodation Establishments, to enhance their knowledge and competencies in identifying indicators of abuse, exploitation, trafficking, gender-based violence, and other protection concerns within tourism settings. Participants were also oriented on proper reporting and referral mechanisms to ensure timely coordination with appropriate authorities and support agencies.

The training forms part of the Department’s Tourism Industry Skills Program (TISP). It supports the pilot implementation of the SAFE-T (Safe and Fair Environment for Tourism) Inter-Agency Program in General Luna, Siargao. The SAFE-T Program serves as a regional platform that institutionalizes collaborative mechanisms among government agencies, local government units, tourism stakeholders, and community partners in promoting tourism safety, protection, and resilience.

Anchored on preventive protection and capacity-building, the Tourism WORCS (Tourism Integrates, Supports, and Minds Women’s Rights and Child Safety) Training aims to transform frontline tourism personnel into active partners in safeguarding women and children and preventing Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) and other forms of exploitation in tourism destinations.

The initiative likewise operationalizes key components of the SAFE-T framework, particularly on Tourism Safety, Protection and Resilience Systems, as well as Capacity Building and Advocacy. Through this intervention, DOT Caraga continues to strengthen the role of the tourism sector in mainstreaming protection-sensitive approaches and integrating tourism stakeholders into the local referral and support system.

As tourism growth continues to drive economic opportunities in the region, DOT Caraga recognizes the urgent need to address emerging social risks and vulnerabilities, including trafficking, Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), gender-based violence, and sexual harassment. By equipping tourism frontliners with practical protection competencies and referral knowledge, the Department aims to institutionalize a responsive and coordinated tourism protection mechanism that upholds human dignity and promotes a safe, fair, and resilient tourism ecosystem for Caraga.

23/05/2026

23/05/2026

𝗗𝗢𝗧 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗧𝘄𝗼-𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga Regional Office successfully conducted a two-day virtual training under its Tourism Officers Academy Program last May 13–14, 2026 via Zoom and streamed live on Facebook. The seminar consistently gathered local tourism officers from across the region.

Led by DOT-accredited resource speaker, Dr. Freddie A. Quinito, the initiative strictly aligned with Section 41 of the Tourism Act of 2009 (Local Government Capabilities Enhancement), which mandates the DOT to capacitate local government units (LGUs) in administering tourism activities and enforcing regulations.

Moreover, the program focused on developing a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism workforce capable of elevating service standards and enforcing local tourism laws.

The event commenced with an opening message from Assistant Regional Director Tiara Julia M. Santos, who emphasized that the initiative was designed to reach and capacitate local tourism managers. She highlighted the importance of reviewing local tourism development plans and procedures, which enables LGUs and their partners to effectively implement their missions and visions while delivering service excellence.

Throughout the intensive two-day academy, municipal tourism officers engaged in vital continuing education on tourism planning and product development to advocate for sustainable practices and foster stronger regional collaboration.

Concluding the successful event, Chief Tourism Operations Officer Junesther Jean I. Valdez delivered the closing message, reinforcing the region's commitment to continuous capability building to bolster both regional and national tourism growth.

23/05/2026

𝗜𝗖𝗬𝗠𝗜: 𝗗𝗢𝗧 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝘂𝗻𝗮

On May 5-11, 2026, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga Region, in partnership with the Local Government Unit and Municipal Tourism Office of General Luna, Surigao del Norte, successfully concluded another batch of Community Tour Guiding Training. This session marks the second batch of community tour guides trained in General Luna for FY 2026, bringing the total number of batches implemented from 2023 to 2026 to six (6).

A total of 35 community guides completed a week-long program that equipped them with essential knowledge in basic first aid, survival skills, and practical tour guiding techniques. The training culminated in a graded mock tour simulation across the municipality’s renowned Tri-Island destinations —Guyam, Naked, and Daku Island, where participants showcased their ability to deliver engaging spiels, interpret local attractions, and apply proper guiding protocols with confidence and professionalism.

This initiative underscores DOT Caraga’s commitment to strengthening community-based tourism by capacitating local guides as frontliners in delivering safe, informative, and memorable visitor experiences. Beyond technical skills, the training emphasized the importance of sustainability, cultural appreciation, and responsible tourism practices, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are inclusive and contribute to local livelihood opportunities. By empowering community guides, DOT advances its mandate of promoting safe, sustainable, and people-centered tourism development in Caraga.

DOT Caraga extends its sincere appreciation to the Local Government Unit of General Luna and the Municipal Tourism Office for their active support and partnership. Their dedication and collaboration have been vital in ensuring the success of this program and in building a resilient tourism industry that is community-driven and future-ready.

22/05/2026

𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈: 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, successfully conducted the Barangay Tanod Training on April 28–30, 2026 in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Palarong Pambansa. The three-day training gathered a total of 110 barangay tanod participants who were equipped with essential knowledge and skills in tourism safety, security, service excellence, crisis management, and emergency response.

The activity formally opened with an inspiring welcome message from Hon. Jesusimo L. Ronquillo, Municipal Vice Mayor of Prosperidad, who emphasized the vital role of barangay tanods in ensuring the safety, security, and overall positive experience of visitors and delegates during major tourism and sporting events.

On the first day, Ms. Kylee Doreene Q. Plaza, Supervising Tourism Operations Officer of DOT Caraga, provided an Overview of the Global and Philippine Tourism Industry, highlighting the importance of tourism frontliners in delivering quality visitor experiences. Resource speakers PCPT Renlyn Precioso Arroza and PCMS Charley Chua Coral of the Philippine National Police discussed Basic Human Rights, Basic Investigation Procedures, and Tourist Safety Protocols. Meanwhile, Mr. Jorem J. Luzon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) delivered sessions on Gender Sensitive, Child-Friendly and Human Rights Approach, as well as the Role of Barangay Tanod in Crisis Management.

On the second day, Mr. Richard Nick A. Amores, FBSE Speaker, facilitated comprehensive discussions on The Philippine Tourism Industry Situationer and the FBSE Journey, The 7Ms of Filipino Hospitality and Service Excellence, The G.U.E.S.T. Steps to Service Excellence, and The HEART of Service Recovery. His sessions emphasized the importance of genuine Filipino hospitality and excellent customer service in creating memorable visitor experiences.

The third day featured sessions from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led by FO2 Romel B. Rañoa and FO2 Niña N. Bustamante, who conducted discussions and practical demonstrations on Customized First Aid Based on Location, equipping participants with emergency response techniques applicable in various tourism and event scenarios.

The successful conduct of the training reflects the strong collaboration between DOT Caraga and the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad in strengthening community preparedness and enhancing the capabilities of barangay tanods as tourism frontliners. Through this initiative, participants are now better equipped to help ensure a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for athletes, delegates, and visitors during the 2026 Palarong Pambansa.

The Department of Tourism Caraga extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, for its invaluable support and commitment to advancing tourism readiness and community-based public service initiatives. Their partnership and dedication greatly contributed to the success of this undertaking.

15/05/2026

𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘆𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗼 𝗙𝗕𝗦𝗘 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱-𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

A total of 110 tourist tricycle drivers participated in the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Training with Child-Safe Tourism Orientation conducted last May 11, 2026, at the City Cultural Center, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.

The FBSE Training was facilitated by Ms. Paula Mae A. Abucay-Mirasol, DOT Regional Trainer on FBSE, who highlighted the important role of tourist tricycle drivers as frontliners of tourism. She emphasized that the way drivers interact with and approach tourists can greatly influence visitors’ impressions of the city. As one of the first people tourists encounter upon arriving at ports, airports, and terminals, tourist drivers play a crucial role in delivering quality service and creating a welcoming experience for visitors.

Meanwhile, the Child-Safe Tourism Orientation was facilitated by Ms. Alyckssa Maye J. Castanos, GAD TourISM WorCS Officer. During the session, she reminded participants of the importance of promoting safe spaces for all vulnerable sectors, especially children, women, and persons with diverse SOGIE. The orientation also reinforced the shared responsibility of tourism stakeholders in ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive tourism environment.

This activity is in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Surigao under the leadership of Mayor Pablo Yves L. Dumlao II, together with the support of City Tourism Officer Ms. Roselyn Merlin.

The initiative reflects the continuous commitment to strengthening tourism service excellence while promoting safety, inclusivity, and responsible tourism in Surigao City.