The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Department of Tourism (DoT) is actively pushing for smart tourism after releasing funds for various digital transformation projects of several local government units (LGU).
Last June 2021, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines has been able to transfer a total of P111,653,600 to LGUs to fund smart tourism projects such as the development and use of the VIS.I.T.A. platform (an online visitor management and monitoring system), local tourism websites and mobile applications, and digital marketing tools.
Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said, “Digital innovations are playing a crucial role in the recovery of the tourism industry. Not only do they improve the efficiency of business operations and promotions, but they also allow for a safer environment through contactless transactions, virtual meetings, and visitor registration and monitoring.”
Baguio City was the first LGU to use the VIS.I.T.A. app in October 2020, while Oriental Mindoro launched last July 8 its own tourism website – www.travelorientalmindoro.ph – as well as a mobile application “Lakbay Oriental Mindoro” that serves as a digital travel guide to the province’s 14 municipalities.
The DoT has tapped TPB Philippines in funding other programs and projects that involve securing health and safety, restoring consumers’ confidence, refocusing packages and promotional specials, and marketing and communication of promotional materials.