DIPOLOG CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT)-9 conducted a four-day seminar on Tourist Reception and Guiding Techniques last Jan. 22-25 at the Top Plaza Hotel here.
Designed to give knowledge and information to all local government units (LGUs) in Zamboanga del Norte about tourist operations, the training was attended by the stakeholders and “frontliners” of tourism industry from the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan, and the municipalities of Polanco, Sibutad, Roxas and Manukan.
The resource speakers explained to the participants the vital role of the local guides in the development and promotion of the tourism industry in their respective localities, as they serve as overseer, coordinator, timekeeper, shepherd, interpreter, presenter and caregiver.
As an overseer and timekeeper, the local guide should know the itinerary of the tourists and always keep in mind the time allotment for each item or travel destination.
He should provide information and other needs of the tourists like where will they go, where will they ride and where will they eat that is within their budget.
A local guide should also secure the safety and well-being of the tourists and should know the basic first aid in case of any adversities in the course of the tour.
Moreover, a local guide is the ideal person to narrate and explain to the guests about their customs and traditions including the introduction of their unique products to the guests.
“All this will result in the increase in income and employment in the locality,” a DOT-9 staff said. (PIA9)