The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) have partnered to provide free legal aid to accredited tourism stakeholders and frontline workers, particularly those from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
These services will be available through all IBP chapters nationwide.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and IBP National President Antonio C. Pido announced the partnership in Lahug, Cebu City, on Jan. 30 during the opening ceremony of the 20th National Convention of Lawyers.
Frasco described the collaboration as a testament to the shared commitment of the DOT and IBP to fostering inclusive growth, strengthening institutions, and ensuring justice and legal assistance are accessible to tourism stakeholders.
“This partnership symbolizes the power of unity in addressing critical needs in our communities, especially ensuring that justice and legal assistance are readily available to tourism stakeholders,” Frasco said.
She emphasized the importance of MSMEs in creating a robust and inclusive tourism landscape and sustaining the industry.
As part of the agreement, the DOT and IBP will work together on the proposed establishment of 24/7 tourist courts, a flagship project of the DOT under the Marcos administration. These courts aim to facilitate the swift resolution of tourist-related incidents in key destinations, particularly in areas with high tourist activity.
Frasco commended the IBP for its support of the DOT’s goal to uplift communities.
“I commend the IBP, under the leadership of Atty. Antonio C. Pido and all your governors, for your unwavering dedication to improving the administration of justice and upholding the rule of law,” she said.
She added that the collaboration goes beyond policies and programs, as it directly impacts lives and shapes the future through the transformative power of tourism.
The partnership also benefits IBP members, allowing them to access the DOT-IBP virtual Privilege Card, which offers discounts from participating DOT-accredited tourism enterprises, including MSMEs.
The virtual card will be integrated into the IBP mobile application, where members can view a list of participating tourism establishments.
By utilizing the privilege card, IBP members can explore the country’s diverse tourism offerings while contributing to the sector’s continued growth.
The two-year agreement also permits the IBP to incorporate the Love The Philippines tourism branding into its marketing materials.
For his part, Pido highlighted the role of lawyers in nation-building and the mutual benefits of the partnership for both the legal community and the local economy.
“We recognize the vital role that lawyers play in our society, and this partnership with the DOT is a great way to show our appreciation,” Pido said.
He added that the discount privileges would allow IBP members to enjoy the country’s best tourism offerings while also supporting the sector’s growth.
Present at the event were Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, Associate Justices Amy Lazaro-Javier, Jhosep Lopez, Antonio T. Kho Jr., Jose Midas P. Marquez, Japar B. Dimaampao, Samuel H. Gaerlan, Mario V. Lopez, Rodil V. Zalameda, and Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa.
Also in attendance were former Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, House Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, and Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin N. Garcia.
