MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Department of Tourism (DOT) released health and safety guidelines for accommodation establishments — such as hotels — under the designated “new normal,” indicating many changes for the country’s tourism services.
For example, receptionists are advised not to shake hands, instead, they are asked to practice the “Filipino Brand of Service” or use the “Mabuhay” gesture to greet guests.
“We assure our stakeholders that the DOT Guidelines will prove responsive to the needed changes brought about by this pandemic,” Puyat said.
“The tourism sector, with the support of the government, will recover and resume once travel restrictions have been lifted following the safety protocols and measures for the new normal in travel.”
The new memorandum signed by Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat cites guidelines for the following areas: guest handling, reception and concierge, rooms and housekeeping, food and beverage service, kitchen sanitation and disinfection, public areas, hotel and transport service, and more.
Under “guest handling,” establishments will be required to have guests complete a Health Declaration Form upon check-in, as well as to “encourage” online payment upon booking. Establishments will also have to conduct body temperature checking using a thermal scanner. Only guests cleared during screening should be allowed to enter the hotel perimeter to check-in.
Guests will also be provided “reminder cards” which will ask them not to share food or belongings, properly dispose of protective equipment, not to mingle with occupants of other rooms, and practice proper handwashing etiquette.
Only single up to double room occupancy is allowed. Couples or family members who share the same household may be allowed in double or twin occupancy rooms. A distance of one to two meters between the beds is highly encouraged.
The guidelines caution to avoid employing any discriminatory action against any sick person with high fever and cough for fear of contracting or spreading the disease.
For the full text of the Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Accommodation Establishments, click here
