tourism code draft

1. Republic of the Philippines
Province of Benguet
Municipality of La Trinidad
OFFICE OF THE SANGGUNIANG BAYAN
Tel. No. (074) 422-0601
Regular Meeting
November 24, 2020
Authored by:
FRANCIS A. LEE, Municipal Councilor

2. ORDINANCE NO. 31-2020
THE LA TRINIDAD SUSTAINABLE TOURISM CODE OF 2020.
• WHEREAS, the state declares tourism as an indispensable element of
the national economy and an industry of national interest and
importance…
• WHEREAS, the state recognizes the importance of agriculture in
making available food and other products necessary to sustain and
enhance human life and in providing livelihood to a major portion of
the population.
• WHEREAS, to maximize the benefits that can be derived from
agriculture and tourism combined…;

3. • WHEREAS, RA 10816 otherwise known as “Farm Tourism Development Act of
2016”
• WHEREAS, the Municipality of La Trinidad is the capital town of the Province of
Benguet…;
Now therefore on motion duly seconded, be it ordained by the Sangguniang
Bayan assembled in session that;
CHAPTER 1
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
ARTICLE I
TITLE OF THE ORDINANCE, DECLARATION POLICY, OBJECTIVES
Section 1. Short Title. This ordinance shall be known as the “LA TRINIDAD
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM CODE OF 2020.”

4. • Section 2. Declaration of Policy.
The municipality shall seek to:
a) Ensure the development of local tourism that is for and by the constituents, conserve
and promote their heritage, national identity and sense of unity;
b. Recognize sustainable tourism development as integral to the socio- economic
development efforts to improve the quality of life of the constituents, providing
appropriate attention and support for the growth of this industry;
c. Promote a tourism industry that is ecologically sustainable, responsible, safe and
secure, participative, culturally sensitive, economically viable, and ethically and
socially equitable for local communities;
d. Create a favorable image of the Municipality within the local community, thereby
strengthening the Municipality’s attraction as a tourism destination and eventually paving
the way for other benefits that may result from a positive view of the Municipality;
e. Encourage private sector participation and agri-tourism for countryside
development and preservation of rural life.

5. SECTION 3. Objectives. Pursuant to the above declaration, the
Municipality shall adopt the following objectives:
a. Develop a local tourism action plan and work for its adoption and
implementation.
b. Promote the safe and gradual opening of tourism for economic
recovery.
c. Encourage activities and programs which promote tourism
awareness, preserve the Municipality’s diverse cultures and heritage, and
instill a sense of history and a culture of tourism among the youth and the
populace;
d. All things being equal, grant preferential treatment to the
employment of locals in tourism-related enterprises;
e. Provide full government assistance by way of competitive investment
incentives, long-term development fund and other financing schemes
extended to tourism related investments;

6. f. Ensure that tourism development protects and promotes the general well-
being of the local people, particularly in the area of investment, to include the
monitoring and prevention of any act of profiteering or speculation to the
detriment of local residents, as well as the exploitation of women and children in
tourism;
g. Encourage competition in the tourism industry and maximize consumer
choice by enhancing the continued viability of the retail travel industry and
independent tour operation industry;
h. Enhance the collection, analysis and dissemination of data which accurately
measure the economic and social impact of tourism in the country to facilitate
planning in the public and private sectors;
i. Ensure the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology through the
promotion of activities geared towards environmental protection, conservation
and restoration;

7. j. Develop responsible tourism as a strategy for environmentally sound and
community participatory tourism programs, enlisting the participation of local
communities, including Indigenous Peoples, in conserving bio-physical and
cultural diversity, promoting environmental understanding and education,
providing assistance in the determination of ecotourism sites and ensuring full
enjoyment of the benefits of tourism by the concerned communities;
k. Strengthen the role of tourism councils and encourage the participation
of non-government organizations (NGOs), people’s organizations (POs) and the
private sector in initiating programs for tourism development and
environmental protection;
l. Promote the progressive development of existing civil aviation, land and
sea transportation policies as they relate to tourism, in consonance with existing
bilateral agreements and inter-agency pronouncements;
m. Achieve a balance in tourism development between urban and rural
areas in order to spread the benefits of tourism and contribute to poverty
alleviation, better access to infrastructure and to a reduction in regional
imbalances;

8. n. Enhance capability-building of local government units (LGUs), in
partnership with the private sector, in the management of local tourism
projects and initiatives, thereby ensuring accessible and affordable
destinations throughout the country, especially in areas which have shown
strong comparative advantage;
o. Maintain international standards of excellence in all tourism facilities
and services, and promote the Municipality as a safe and wholesome tourist
destination;
p. Enhance international business relations for the support of tourism
projects of the private sector, through partnerships, joint ventures and other
cooperative undertakings involving local and foreign investors;
q. Ensure a sustainable funding mechanism for the implementation of
tourism policies, plans, programs, projects and activities.

9. ARTICLE II
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Section 4. Definition of Terms. For purposes of this ordinance, the shall mean:
following terms
• Accreditation a certification issued by the Department that the
holder is recognized as having complied with its minimum standard in
the operation of the establishment concerned.
• Conservation shall refer to all the processes and measures of
maintaining the cultural significance of a cultural property including,
but not limited to, preservation, restoration, reconstruction,
protection, adaptation or any combination thereof.
• Council refers to the Tourism Council of La Trinidad.
• Cultural Heritage refer to the totality of cultural property preserved
and developed through time and passed on to posterity.

10. • Cultural property refers to all products of human creativity by which
a people and the nation reveal their identity, including churches, and
other places of religious worship, schools and natural history
specimens and sites, whether public or privately owned, movable or
immovable and tangible or intangible.
• Cultural treasure shall refer to a unique cultural property found
locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or
scientific value which is highly significant and important to the
country and nation, and officially declared as such by pertinent
cultural agency.
• Department refers to the Department of Tourism.
• Department Store is a store that sells or carries several lines of
merchandise and that is organized into separate sections for the
purpose of promotion, service, accounting and control.

11. • Ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism within a natural and
cultural heritage area where community participation, protection and
management of natural resources, culture and indigenous knowledge
and practices, environmental education and ethics, as well as
economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the enrichment of
host communities and the satisfaction of visitors.
• Existing (Developing) Tourist Attractions are tourist sites with the
facilities and services for tourists, but with very limited actual tourist
visitation (current market are mostly the local residents or tourism
marketing and promotion is not yet being undertaken). These
nonetheless have the capacity to attract more tourists.
• Existing (Established) Tourist Attractions have sufficient facilities and
services that offer various activities and products and actually being
visited by tourists.

12. • Health & Wellness Center is an establishment that has a holistic approach
to health and wellness, rest and relaxation that aims to treat the body,
mind and spirit by integrating a range of professionally administered
health, wellness, fitness and beauty, water treatment and services, such as,
but not limited to;
• a. Spa – a facility that exudes a tranquil environment offering various
amenities and services intended to relieve stress, pamper the body and
make one feel relaxed and rejuvenated to promote a healthier way of life.;
b. Day Spa – a spa offering a variety of professionally administered spa
services to clients on a day use basis.;
• c. Destination Spa – a spa which has for its sole purpose to provide clients
with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally
administered spa services, physical fitness, education programming and on-
site accommodations where spa cuisine or healthy food is offered.;
• d. Resort/Hotel Spa – a spa owned by and located within a resort or hotel
providing professionally administered spa services, fitness and wellness
components.

13. • Historical landmarks shall refer to sites or structures that are associated
with events or achievements significant to the Municipality’s history.
• Historical monument shall refer to historical sites or structures hallowed
and revered for their history or association.
• Hotel refers to full-service accommodation with reception and guest rooms
generally offering private facilities with an onsite restaurant, room and bar
services available. Additional facilities such as business centers and
conference rooms are expected;
• Important Cultural property refer to a cultural property having exceptional
cultural, artistic and historical significance to the Municipality of La
Trinidad.
• Intangible cultural heritage shall refer to the practices, representations,
expressions, knowledge and skills, as well as the instruments, objects and
artifacts associated therewith, that communities, groups and individuals
recognize as part of their cultural heritage, such as ;Oral traditions,
languages and expressions; Performing Arts; Social Practices, rituals and
festive events; Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the
universe; Traditional craftsmanship; and Indigenous knowledge system and
practices

14. • Intangible cultural property refers to the peoples learned processes along
with the knowledge, skills and creativity that inform and are developed by
them, the products they create and the resources, spaces and other aspects
of social and natural context necessary for their sustainability.
• IP/ICC refers to Indigenous People/ Indigenous Cultural Communities
principally representing the Ibaloi, Kankanaey and Kalanguya sub-tribes;
and secondarily other tribal affiliations in the Municipality of La Trinidad.
• License shall mean the privilege or the authority granted by the office of
the Municipal Mayor, through a recommendation from the Municipal
Tourism Operations Office, to own, generate and maintain a tourist-related
establishment and/or facility covered by this ordinance.
• Living treasures. Refer to cultural experts, the carriers of customs and
traditions, the bearers of traditional skills and techniques, the craftsman,
the farmer, artist or otherwise living repositories of cultural and traditional
knowledge or skill.
• Mall is an establishment, usually a large, often enclosed area comprising of
a department store, grocery, shops, fast food and food stations, as well as
recreational facilities.

15. • MICE refer to Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Events services and
facilities;
• MICE Organizer shall mean to include Professional Convention Organizer,
Professional Exhibition Organizer and Event Organizer.
• Motorist Hotel (Motel) any structure with several separate units, primarily
located along the highway with individual or common parking spaces, at
which motorists may obtain lodging and, in some instances, meals;
• Municipality refers to the Municipality of La Trinidad.
• Museum is a structure, open to the public and is intended for educational
purpose. It displays permanent collections which are being preserved and
depict the immediate lifestyle, culture and tradition of the community. It is
either a public or private institution with collections ranging from children,
art, visual, science and ethnographic;
• National Homestay Program – a program of the Department which
provides travelers with comfortable accommodation with Filipino families
in areas near tourist attraction.

16. • Office refers to the Municipal Tourism Services Office.
• Potential Tourist Attractions. These areas are still facing inadequacies in
terms of tourism facilities, amenities and services and needs substantial
development for them to penetrate the market. Most of these sites are of
the nature and farm types/categories of tourist attractions.
• Primary Tourism Enterprise refers to facilities, services and attractions
that are directly related or involved to tourism such as, but not limited to
the hotel, resort, self-styled accommodation establishment, motel, travel
and tour agency, tourist transport operator, tour operator/organizer, tour
guide, MICE, MICE organizer.
• Registration refers to the act of listing of all tourism-related establishments
including those activities and promotion programs, after such tourism
related establishments have been certified by the Municipal Government of
La Trinidad, through the Municipal Tourism Operations Office, as having
conformed with the minimum standards/requirements in accordance with
the Ordinance.

17. • Resort refers to full-service accommodation located in a more natural,
relaxed environment, with reception and guest rooms generally offering
private facilities with an onsite restaurant, room and bar service available.
Additional recreation facilities and tour services are expected;
• Restaurant refer to any commercial establishments offering meals,
beverages and drinks to the public.
• Secondary Tourism Enterprise are facilities and services that may be
related to tourism such as, but not limited to restaurant, mall. Shop,
department store, sports and recreational facilities, ecotourism, health and
wellness center and museum.
• Self-Styled Accommodation Establishment refers to any edifice or premises
or a completely independent part thereof, which is used for the regular
reception, accommodation or lodging of travelers and tourists for a fee
which is not otherwise classified as a hotel, including but not limited to the
following, to wit: apartment hotel (apartel), condotel, dormitel, hostel,
hometel, homestay, bed & breakfast and pension house/inn;

18. • Shop is a retail establishment offering specific lines of goods and
services such as crafts, souvenirs, fruit stands and other similar items.
• Sport and Recreation Club/Center are establishment offering sports
and recreation facilities to tourist and to be general public.
• Sports and Recreational Facilities refer to facilities that include any
sports facilities, and other similar facilities forming part of a property.
• Tangible cultural property shall refer to a cultural property with
historical, archival, anthropological, archaeological, artistic and
architectural value and with exceptional or traditional production,
whether of Philippine origin or not, including antiques and natural
history specimens with significant value.
• Tour Guide is an individual licensed by the Municipality to guide
tourists for a fee;

19. • Tour Operator / Tour Organizer are entities which may either be a single
proprietorship, partnership or corporation regularly engaged in the
business of extending to individual or groups, such services pertaining to
organized tours and arrangement of tour itineraries for a fee. They may
also be involved in documentation of travel papers, ticketing, sales and/or
accommodation, handling and/or conduct of tours within or outside the
Philippines, whether for a fee, commission or any form of compensation
• Tourism Enterprises refers to facilities, services and attractions involved in
tourism, such as, but not limited to: travel and tour services; tourist
transport services,; tour guides; adventure sports services involving such
sports as biking and hiking, and other sports activities of significant tourism
potential; convention and conference organizers; accommodation
establishments, including, but not limited to hotels, resorts, apartelles,
tourist inns, motels, pension houses and home stay operators; tourism
estate management services, restaurants, shops and department stores,
sports and recreational centers, spas, museums and galleries, theme parks,
convention centers and zoos.

20. • Tourist Transport Operator refers to an entity that may either be a single
proprietorship, partnership or corporation extending to individuals or
groups such services pertaining to tourist transportation;
• Training Center refers to any establishment which offers one or more
training programs for tourist manpower development and which is
equipped with training facilities, equipment and instructional staff.
• Training program refers to a module designed for tourism manpower
development.
• Trainor refers to any individual who conducts training programs as
specified in the preceding paragraph.
• Travel and Tour Agency an entity which may either be a single
proprietorship, partnership or corporation regularly engaged in the
business of extending to individual or groups, such services pertaining to
documentation of travel papers, ticketing, sales and/or accommodation,
handling and/or conduct of tours within or outside the Philippines, whether
for a fee, commission or any form of compensation;

21. ARTICLE III
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Section 5. Code of Ethics. Both primary and secondary enterprises,
owners/keepers/managers and/or their sectoral associations, if any, shall formulate
a Code of Ethics, which shall govern the conduct of their respective members in
dealing with one another and the conduct to be observed by their staff or
employees towards each other and/or their clients.
Section 6. Enlistment of Aid, Assistance and Support of Other Government
Agencies. In the implementation of the provisions of this ordinance, the office may
enlist the aid, assistance and support of any and all government agencies, whether
civil or military.
Section 7. Compliance with Existing Laws, Ordinances, Rules, And Regulations. All
primary and secondary tourism enterprise must comply with existing laws,
ordinances, rules & regulations covering their business operations in the
Municipality of La Trinidad.

22. ARTICLE IV
TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURES
Section 8. Physical Infrastructures. Local governments and private stakeholders shall promote and
encourage the construction of tourism-related establishments and facilities either through public or
private funding, or both, in their areas of jurisdiction. Towards this end, the municipality shall:
a. Enhance travel to tourist destinations through construction and
expansion of adequate road networks and terminals as well as related
infrastructures.
b. Enhance the provision of basic utilities such as water, energy and
power as well as communication facilities through expansion or upgrading
based on long-term studies and carrying capacity of a tourist destination;
c. Implement an integrated solid-waste and sewage management
system in tourist destination and tourism investment zone, that is adequately
functioning and compliant with existing laws and ordinance on environment.
d. Sustain the implementation and enhancement of tourism-related
infrastructures such as accommodation facilities including shopping centers,
healthcare centers, emergency and safety facilities;

23. e. Improve transport facilities through strict implementation and
monitoring of environmental laws, rules and regulations;
f. Sustain the potable water sources and systems in protection,
rehabilitation and management of watershed areas municipal-wide;
g. Engage in the development of watersheds as ecological assets for
sustainable tourism;
h. Pursue a unified effort and institutionalize the proper solid waste
management practices;
i. Create a web portal for the Municipality linking all the barangays;
j. Identify and facilitate assessment as to the potential tourist site
for tourism investment zone;

24. k. Encourage active community-based tourism
endeavors/undertaking which includes “voluntourism” or the
combination of volunteerism and tourism;
l. Ensure compliance to the prescribed and appropriate standard
guidelines for existing and new tourism- related establishments;
m. Encourage the establishment of one-stop-shops and one-town-
one-product to be participated in by all barangays, showcasing their
best products;
n. Diversity wholesome recreational and entertainment activities;
and
o. Encourage the use of thematic design and signages that shall
reflect La Trinidad’s tourism brand.

25. Section 9. Human Resources Infrastructures. Acknowledging tourism as a major factor in income and
employment generation of the Municipality of La Trinidad, every barangay is therefore strongly encouraged to
create a position of a barangay tourism officer. Tourism programs shall be geared towards the fulfillment of the
needs of the key players and stakeholders of the tourism industry. Towards this end, both the municipality and
private investors and tourism shall cooperate to:
• Coordinate with concerned government agencies in monitoring and evaluate
certified and accredited tourism industry workers annually which will be the basis
for renewal or revocation of certification and accreditation.
• Incorporate the culture of tourism and values formation in all levels of education-
primary secondary and tertiary, values of formation the culture of tourism,
including but not limited to demography, geography, history of La Trinidad.
• Ensure that tourism front liners are well-trained and qualified, provided with
incentives and rewards, organized and federated based on their work affiliations.
• Implement guidelines, rules, regulations through appropriate local government
agencies in accordance with Department of Tourism (DOT) standards for the
construction of appropriate and adequate accommodation facilities including
shopping centers, health care centers, emergency and safety facilities, recreation
and entertainment and restaurants conforming to unified design.

26. Section 10. Legal and Regulatory Infrastructure
a. The tourism industry is governed by national and local laws as well as
rules and regulations issued by the administrative bodies and directives
on tourism pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 7160,
otherwise known as the local Government Code of 1991.
b. No foreign tour guide shall be allowed under this Code except when
there are no available local tour guide speaking the language of a
particular foreign tourist market, in which case travel/tour organizers
shall be required to hire accredited local tour guides.

27. CHAPTER 2
LA TRINIDAD TOURISM GOVERNANCE
ARTICLE V
THE LA TRINIDAD TOURISM COUNCIL
Section 11. The La Trinidad Tourism Council. There shall be organized a La
Trinidad Tourism Council which shall be composed and functions as follows:
a. Composition. The council shall be composed of the following:
Chairman: Municipal Administrator
Co-chairman: SB Chairman, Committee on Tourism

28. b. Functions. The Council shall perform the
following functions:
• Organize the council in a manner most efficient and economical for
the conduct of its business and the implementation of its mandate;
• Develop and implement a plan to market La Trinidad as a premier
tourist destination;
• Direct and coordinate the resources and efforts of the government
and the private sector in the tourism and allied fields for the full
realization of the tourism marketing plans and programs;
• Develop and Promote the La Trinidad as a center for international
meetings, incentive programs, conventions, travel marts, exhibitions,
sports and wellness, medical tourism and other special events;

29. • shall be responsible in the promotion and marketing of the services
and known destinations of the Municipality both in domestic and
international tourism, highlighting the unique character of the
people, products and services and ensuring the development and
improvement of important destinations;
• Engage in the business of tourism and perform acts in consonance
therewith, such as, but not limited to creating subsidiaries in support
of the national tourism development plan, encouraging sales
promotions and advertising, and implementing programs and projects
with the objective of promoting the municipality and enticing tourists
to visit its tourism destinations and to enjoy its municipality’s
products;

30. • Lead in the planning of Community activities, with the end view of
increasing tourist arrivals and tourism investment, marketing of the
municipality; attracting, promoting, facilitating and servicing large
scale events, environmental fairs and conventions, congress, sport
competitions, expositions and the like; ensuring the promotion and
advertising of major tourism destinations and products and providing
opportunities and privileges to travel agencies, tour operators,
wholesalers and investors, drawing sizeable number of tourist and
tourism investment in the Municipality;
• Perform such other powers and functions as maybe deemed
necessary by a majority vote of the members of the council.

31. • Section 12. Secretariat. The Municipal Tourism services Office shall
perform the necessary secretarial and administrative functions to the
council. They shall prepare and maintain administrative records, send
communications, provide technical assistance during all council meetings
and perform other functions as the members of the council may request.
• Section 13. Meetings of the Council. The council shall meet at least once a
month. The Chairperson may motu proprio call for a special meeting or at
the instance of a majority of the members of the council. Immediately after
its organization, the council shall adopt the rules and procedures for the
conducts of its meeting. The presence of the majority of the Members of
the council, including the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson, shall constitute
a quorum for the transaction of the business of the council. The
Chairperson of shall have voting rights in case of a tie. The Secretariat shall
prepare the agenda in consultation with the Chairperson.

32. • Section 14. Executive Committee. There shall be an Executive Committee of the
La Trinidad Tourism Council which shall be composed and functions as follows:
a. Composition. The Executive Committee shall be composed of the following:
Chairperson : Municipal Mayor
Vice Chairperson: Municipal Vice Mayor
Members: Municipal Tourism Services Officer
Municipal Planning and Development coordinator
Representative, Tourism Sector
b. Function. The executive committee shall perform the following functions;
1. Ensure that the decisions of the La Trinidad Tourism council are faithfully
carried out and implemented.
2. Act on matters that need immediate attention and action of the La Trinidad
Tourism Council.
3. Take final actions on matters that may be authorized by the La Trinidad Tourism
Council.

33. ARTICLE VI
LA TRINIDAD TOURISM SERVICES OFFICE
• Section 15. Municipal Tourism Services Office. There shall be created
a Municipal Tourism Operations Office under the Office of the Mayor.
The Municipal Tourism Operations Office will primarily be the
implementing arm for the programs, policies and projects relating to
tourism industry in the Municipality. It shall pursue the development
of La Trinidad’s tourism industry in adherence to its Municipal
Tourism Plan which shall be in accordance to the Comprehensive
Development Plan of the Municipality. The Municipal Tourism
Operations Office shall implement programs and projects relating to
tourism, culture, and arts including the marketing and promotions of
the tourism industry in the Municipality.

34. Section 16. Functions of the Municipal tourism Office. The Municipal Tourism
Services Office shall be responsible in the efficient and effective Implementation of
the policies, plans, and programs as recommended by the La Trinidad Tourism
Council and it’s crafted La Trinidad Tourism Development Plan. Towards this end, the
Municipal Tourism Operations Office shall:
a. Initiate and organize tourism, cultural, artistic/musical activities;
b. Formulate, monitor, and coordinate integrated plans for tourism and
culture and arts;
c. Assist, monitor and conduct accreditation of tourism-oriented and related
facilities and service providers;
d. Conduct capability building trainings for tourism front liners.
e. Conduct research, establish and maintain tourism information
management system and web portal for the province and the world;
f. Establish linkage and networking with national government agencies, non-
government organizations (NGOs) and people’s organizations (POs) in
planning and implementing tourism activities;

35. g. Conduct inventory of existing, emerging and potential tourism
attractions.
h. Promote and market La Trinidad as premier tourist destination,
regionally and globally, through exhibits, selling missions and
production of marketing materials;
i. Operate and maintain Municipal government-owned tourism
facilities;
j. Represent the Municipality in tourism-related activities;
k. Advocate responsible culture of tourism and volunteer-tourism; and,
l. Produce promotional and marketing strategies
m. Establish linkages, sisterhood, and alliances worldwide
n. Perform other functions related to tourism development.

36. Section 17. Other Powers and Functions of the Municipal Tourism Services Office. The Municipal
Tourism Operations Office shall process and recommend to the Municipal Mayor for approval the
application of any person, partnership, or corporation or other entity to maintain, operate, or engage
in the business of the primary and secondary tourism enterprise within the territorial limits of the
Municipality.
• The objectives of these provisions are:
a) To ensure the proper development of the tourist and hospitality
industries, bearing in mind the interest of and safety of the community and
the implications of such;
b) To establish the Municipal Tourism Operations Office as the body to
administer and carry out the formal requirements of the ordinance and be
responsible to the Municipal Mayor to monitor and make policy adjustment
to meet the ongoing needs of the public and the industry;
c) To provide a taxable system with formality or legal technicality as may be
practicable for the administration of this ordinance;
d) To provide a legislative framework which will minimize any violation of
this ordinance.

37. ARTICLE VII
CREATION OF POSITIONS UNDER THE MUNICIPAL
TOURISM OPERATIONS OFFICE
• Section 18. Creation of positions under the Municipal Tourism Operations
Office. The following positions under Municipal Tourism Operations Office are
hereby created with their respective qualification and functions:
Senior Tourism Officer- Tourism Operations Officer (SG-18)
1. Qualifications
• Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, Business, Law Economics, marketing,
public administration, or other related fields.
• Experience. 7 years of work experience and involvement in the tourism industry
either in private sector or government.
• Training. 36 hours of relevant training on Tourism Leadership Training, Or DOT
specific and Mandatory Trainings
• Eligibility. CS Professional/ Second Level Eligibility

38. Senior Tourism Officer- Tourism Operations Officer
(SG-18)
2. Duties and responsibilities:
• Serve as the Municipal Tourism officer and Section Head of the Office.
• Act on the preparation, updating, and monitoring of local tourism development
action plan and its implementation.
• Coordinating with the Department of Tourism and its attached agencies
regarding the development and promotion of tourism in the locality.
• Supervise the Collection of Tourism Statistics from all tourism sites to be
submitted to DOT-CAR and PGO Tourism
• Supervise the tourism operations for coordinated tourism visits and activities.
• Act as point persons for Sisterhood ties/activities and Programs
• Propose ordinances and resolutions that will aid tourism development and
promotions.

39. • Supervise in the implementation of tourism- Investment projects.
• Initiate Artistic, Cultural, and Musical events to promote tourism.
• Act as the over-all coordinator or Secretariat/ Action Officer to
tourism and special events such as the Strawberry Festival and La
Trinidad Coffee Festival.
• Spearhead the production of Tourism Promotions and Marketing
Materials.
• Monitor the operation of tourism sites and tourism-related
establishments.
• Act as a member and secretariat of the Municipal Tourism Council
and other bodies provided by policy or executive orders.
• Recommend needed tourism related policies to the appropriate body.
• Other duties assigned and required by the Mayor.

40. Tourism Officer II (SG 15)
• Qualifications.
a) Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, Business, Law Economics,
marketing, public administration, or other related fields.
b) Experience. 5 years of work experience and involvement in the
tourism industry either in private sector or government
c) Training. 16 hours of relevant training on Tourism, Or DOT specific
and Mandatory Trainings
d) Eligibility. CS Professional/ Second Level Eligibility

41. Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist the Tourism Officer (Senior Tourism Operations Officer) in the
implementation of Tourism Programs, Projects, and Activities.
• Assist in the preparation, updating, and monitoring of local tourism development
action plan and its implementation.
• Act as liaison for Sisterhood towns and proposed exchanges.
• Ensure compliance of sites with safety and secure tourism through monitoring
and other actions.
• Submit complete and updated regular reports on tourism plan status, tourist
arrivals, investments and products to the DOT. (Phil. Tourism Act of 2009)
• Coordinate with Tour operators in tour circuit promotions and supply applicable
materials.
• Act as an Official Tour Guide for coordinated and official tours and visits.

42. • Attend to and Coordinate activities related to Arts and Culture.
• Entertain tourists and visitors who needed assistance and information.
• Prepare documents related to tourism as required by the functions of the
office.
• Initiate trainings and seminars for tourism stakeholders and as a training
officer on customer service and tour guiding for tourism stakeholders.
• Assist tourism enterprises in the Accreditation process offered by the
Department of Tourism and other offices.
• Maintain a tourism logbook for tourists and visitors in the locality.
• Other duties and functions directed by the Tourism Officer or the Mayor.

43. Tourism Officer I (SG 11).
Qualifications
• Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, Business, Law Economics,
marketing, public administration, or other related fields.
• Experience. 5 years of work experience and involvement in the
tourism industry either in private sector or government
• Training. 16 hours of relevant training on Tourism, Or DOT specific and
Mandatory Trainings
• Eligibility. CS Professional/ Second Level Eligibility

44. Duties and responsibilities
• Assist the tourism officer in the implementation of tourism programs,
projects and activities.
• Assist in the preparation, updating and monitoring of local tourism
development action plan and its implementation.
• Supply relevant information to visiting tourists.
• Facilitate the registration of tour organizers and operators with the
office as well as their compliance with eco-tourism fees.
• Act as an official tour guide for coordinated and official tours and
visits.
• Serve as the official coordinator and trainer of community guides.

45. • Attend and coordinate activities related to arts and culture.
• Entertain tourist and visitors who needed assistance and information
• Prepare documents related to tourism as required by the functions of
the office
• Maintain a tourism logbook for tourists and visitors in the locality.
• Prepare correspondences, notices, memorandums and other
documents for special bodies which tourism office is involved.
• Other duties and functions directed by the tourism officer.

46. Administrative Assistant II (SG 8)
Qualifications.
• Education. Completion of 4 years studies in college
• Experience. None Required
• Training. None Required
• Eligibility. CS Sub-professional First level Eligibility
Duties and responsibilities.
Perform skilled and responsible clerical work for the Office.
• Encode and prepare correspondences, notices,
memorandums, and other documents.
• Communicate with clients, employees, and
tourists/visitors.
• Compile, copy, sort, and file records of office activities,
business transactions, and other activities.
• Assist the Tourism Officer (Senior Tourism Operations
Officer) in the implementation of Tourism Programs,
Projects, and Activities.
• Document meetings, and other activities and tourism-
related events.
• Serve as a secretary to office meetings.
• Performs related duties as may be assigned by Supervisors
• Admin. Aide (SG 6)

47. Administrative Aide VI (SG 6)
Qualifications
• Education
• Experience-non required
• Training
• Eligibility
Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist the Tourism Officers in the
implementation of Tourism Programs,
Projects, and Activities.
• Responsible in the maintenance of the
tourism building and offices including the
arts and culture gallery.
• Assist in the logging and reception of
visitors and clients in the tourism office.
• Assist in the monitoring of tourism spots.
• Assist in tourism activities and tourism-
related events.
• Performs related duties as may be
assigned by Supervisors.

48. ARTICLE VIII
LA TRINIDAD TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN
• Section 20. La Trinidad Tourism Development Plan. There shall be promulgated a La Trinidad
Tourism Development Plan by the La Trinidad Tourism Council. The Plan shall include the long-
term tourism plan of the municipality, which shall be incorporated as part of the Comprehensive
Development Investment Plan.
•
• Section 21. Preparing the Plan. The planning shall be composed of determining in detail the
specific activities, responsibilities, resource requirements and duration of tourism development
activities. It shall include but not limited to data gathering, site/attraction evaluation and
prioritization, situation analysis, planning workshop, finalization of goals, objectives and
strategies; identification of programs, projects and activities; prioritization; and packaging of
tourism development plan.
•
• Section 22. Tourism Impact Assessment and Evaluation. Tourism impact assessment and
evaluation shall also be conducted to look into the ecological impact of tourism as to compliance
to environmental laws, conduct of environmental impact assessment, considering carrying
capacity and limits of acceptable change, impacts on biodiversity, green architecture
development in tourism implementation. The social and Economic impact of tourism shall
likewise must be conducted as part of the planning activity process.

49. ARTICLE IX
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
• Section 23. Inter-government Relations. The La Trinidad Tourism Council will be
an instrument for inter-government coordination, communication and
cooperation on tourism-related issues. It shall promote harmonious relationship
with other Local Government Units, national government instrumentalities and
private sector. The Municipal Tourism council shall make sure that:
• In case of conflict among local government instrumentalities, the purpose,
objectives and intent of the La Trinidad Tourism Code shall prevail;
• The council shall directly coordinate with the Municipal Mayor that there shall be
regularly appropriated funds for programs and projects for tourism programs,
projects and activities;
• The council shall closely coordinate with the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station
and other law enforcement organizations for the special training of personnel
assigned to tourism destinations and sites;
• The La Trinidad Tourism Council shall seek the assistance of appropriate
government agencies in the implementation of its policies, projects and activities
to attain its objectives.

50. Section 24. Management of tourism resources. Tourism Resources are any natural,
cultural, human or capital resources that are being used or can be utilized to attract
or serve tourists. The Municipal Tourism Servicers Office in coordination with the La
Trinidad Tourism Council shall periodically conduct the following activities:
• Inventory and Classification of Resources. The Municipal Tourism
Operations Office, in coordination with the La Trinidad Tourism Council,
shall periodically make an inventory to identify and classify the resources
available that provide opportunities for tourism development;
• Assessment of Resources. The Municipal Tourism Operations Office, shall
periodically conduct an objective and realistic assessment of the quality
and quantity of resources that can be used for tourism purposes
• Classification of Tourism Destinations. The Municipal Tourism Operations
Office, in coordination with the La Trinidad Tourism Council and the
respective LGUs, shall on an annual basis, classify tourism sites as
destinations in accordance with DOT standards as existing, emerging and
potential destinations;

51. • Prioritized Tourism Destinations. Tourism destinations that are given
higher classification category shall be included among the priority for
promotion and marketing. The classification will guide tour operators
and tourist where to go and what to do;
• Investment and Development. The Municipal Tourism and
Investment Promotion Office, in coordination with the La Trinidad
Tourism Council, shall encourage local Communities to develop their
respective tourist destinations;
• Protection and Preservation. The Municipal Tourism Services Office,
Local Economic and Investment Promotions Officer (LEIPO), La
Trinidad Tourism Council, in coordination with offices involved and
stakeholders, shall ensure the integrity of all tourism resources for its
protection and preservation.

52. • Section 25. Tourism incentives. Tourism-related investments under the Revised La Trinidad
Incentive and Investments Code (Municipal Ordinance No. 23-2020) shall enjoy the benefits and
may apply for the for the Technical assistance and networking; and Inclusion in all marketing and
promotional materials of the Municipality. Tour Organizers from La Trinidad shall enjoy a two-year
business tax holiday. Recommendation and endorsements to other government and non-
government tourism assisting organizations shall also be issued to establishments that have fully
met the requirements of registration under ordinance.
• Section 26. Confidential Character of Certain Data. Information and documents received by and
filed under this ordinance shall be treated as confidential and shall not be divulged to any private
party without the consent of the party concerned or upon the order of the Municipal Tourism
Services Office.
• Section 27. Mandatory Submission of Reports/ Statistics. Every accommodation facility and
other tourism enterprises, shall submit their monthly Occupancy and/or arrival report, indicating
therein the number of rooms occupied for a month, the average length of stay of guests, the
breakdown of guest by nationality, and other information as may be required by the Office and/or
the Department. Tour operators and MICE facilities shall likewise submit monthly the necessary
data or report to the Tourism Services Office.

53. ARTICLE X
MANAGING THE IMPACTS OF TOURISM
• Section 28. Monitoring and Evaluation System. The Municipal Tourism Services Office,
together with the La Trinidad Tourism Council, shall establish a monitoring and
evaluation system in order to evaluate the economic, social and environmental impact of
tourism activities. They should cover all elements that are crucial to sustainability of the
tourism resources in compliance with the provisions of this Code. Monitoring and
evaluation indicators should include service quality and participation of local
communities.
• Section 29. Compliance to Environmental laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. The
Municipality of La Trinidad shall comply with the provisions of La Trinidad Environment
sustainable management (Municipal Ordinance No.11-2019) and development code; and
the La Trinidad Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Code of 2020 (Municipal
Ordinance No.12-2019)
• Section 30. Tourism destinations as garbage free zones. It is hereby declared that all
recognized tourism sites in the Municipality of La Trinidad shall be garbage free zones. As
such all principal stakeholders are enjoined and encouraged to support activities that
abates the generation of waste in their respective sites.

54. • Posting of Notices. The Municipality shall provide a uniform template
on environmental notices that shall be posted in conspicuous areas in
all recognized tourism sites in the Municipality. The cost of printing
and fabricating the necessary notices shall be borne by the tourism
site operator. The Municipality may, subject to availability of funds,
bear the cost of printing and fabrication of the notice which shall be
distributed to destination stakeholder.
• Section 31. Size and make. The notice shall be printed in tarpaulin,
panaflex or printed in a billboard with a dimension of 3 feet by 4 feet.
When printed in tarpaulin it must be framed using any material
capable of visibly and squarely position the notice in regular and
orderly manner.

55. ARTICLE XI
THE LA TRINIDAD TOURISM BRAND
• Section 32. Official Taglines and/or Town Slogans. The following are adopted as La
Trinidad’s official brand taglines and/or slogans:
• “The Strawberry Capital of the Philippines” taking pride of the Strawberries as La
Trinidad’s one town one product or main promoted tourism product.
• “Valley of Colors” encompasses the other tourism products that the Municipality offers
like highland vegetables, flowers, and coffee. It also expresses the town’s multicultural
identity and the various colorful experiences that the town can give.
• Section 33. Official Icons and symbols. In order to bolster the official brand of the
Municipality through visible representations like icons and symbols, the following are
adopted;
• Kayabang and/or Kayabang with overflowing agricultural produce – Adopted from the
Official La Trinidad Seal which symbolizes the identity and aspirations of the La Trinidad
Community.
• Strawberries (Duting) – “Visibly represents our unique character as the Strawberry
Capital of the Country”.

56. • Other Iconic products and tools which form part of the Tourism brand:
• Highland Vegetables – Representing our agriculture and agri-trading economy.
• Flowers and ornamentals – Representing our blooming ornamental and flower industry.
• Coffee – Representing our growing coffee Arabica industry.
• Gong and Solibao – representing the town’s culture and heritage
• Section 34. Official Colors. – The following colors shall be adopted in public and municipal-funded
infrastructures and materials to unify the thematic expression of the La Trinidad Brand:
• Dark Green – represents the fresh, robust, deep and verdant shade of La Trinidad’s plants and crops;
• Red – exudes the vibrant-red color of the strawberry since the town is known as the Nation’s Strawberry
Capital;
• Yellow – is a color that is present both in the Municipal Logo, and the seeds of the Strawberry Fruit. It
symbolizes hope and a better future;
• Brown – symbolizes the Indigenous Peoples, the original inhabitants of La Trinidad. It is also reminiscent of
the soil, the agricultural base in which produce flourish;

57. • Section 35. La Trinidad Architectural Considerations. –To achieve a coherent and unified
town theme, the Municipal Engineering Office, and other concerned offices, aside from
considering the official brand colors, shall also adopt the following architectural
inspirations in all Municipal funded infrastructure projects, and IEC materials:
• Mountains / valley – characterized by wavy triangular shapes which is also reminiscent
of traditional Indigenous Peoples’ symbols;
• Kayabang Weaving – exhibits the weaving pattern found in the “Kayabang”;
• Benguet Colors – considers the culture and heritage of the town;
• Agriculture – considers the rustic theme of traditional agricultural ways;
• Eco-friendly designs- the global shift towards sustainable development considers Eco-
friendly strategies.
• Section 36. La Trinidad Tourism Theme Song. The La Trinidad Tourism Office shall
organize artistic and musical activities that shall yield to an official La Trinidad Tourism
theme song upon the approval of the Sangguniang Bayan.

58. • Section 6. Brand promotions. The community is highly enjoined to
contribute and participate in the promotion of the La Trinidad Brand
through the following activities:
• Souvenir shops shall substantially market souvenirs which contains the La
Trinidad Brand or Identity.
• Restaurants and coffee shops shall patronize local products that promote
the La Trinidad Identity, particularly the Arabica Coffee, strawberries,
highland vegetables, flowers and other food and non-food products which
includes local arts and crafts.
• All businesses are encouraged to strategically set up a local product display
area within their establishments.

59. ARTICLE XII
TOURISM AND VISITORS ASSISTANCE (VTA)
PROGRAM
• Section 37. Declaration. There shall be organized a team of
competent tourism professionals who shall be called on anytime to
provide tourism services assistance to visiting local or international
dignitaries and tourists in the Municipality. They shall be known as
the Visitor and Tourism Assistants who shall be trained with the
knowledge and skills as tour guides; and with the wit and heart of
public servants.
• Section 38. Visitors and Tourism Assistance Team. There shall be
created a Visitors and Assistance Team which shall be composed and
functions as follows:

60. a. Composition. The Visitors and Tourism Assistants shall be composed
of the following:
1) Personnel from the Municipality to be designated by the Municipal
Mayor and Vice Mayor;
2) Tour Guides, tourism advocates and other tourism-oriented enthusiast in
the community who wishes to be part of the Visitors and Tourism
Assistants Program.
• Functions of the Visitors and tourism Assistants:
1. Provide tourism guiding services to visitors and tourists who seeks
assistance with the Municipality through the Municipal Tourism Services
Office;
2. Assist the Municipal Tourism Services Office in organizing and
implementing various activities and tourism itinerary for visiting
dignitaries.
3. Performs other functions as the Steering committee may promulgate.

61. Section 39. Visitors and Tourism Assistant Program Steering Committee.
There shall be created a Visiting and Tourism Assistants steering
committee which shall be composed and functions as follows:
• Composition.
• Chairman: SB Chairman,
Committee on Tourism, External
Affairs and Sisterhood
• Members:
• Municipal Tourism Services Officer
• Chairman, Municipal Tourism
Council
• Municipal Budget Officer
• Municipal Human Resource
Management Officer
• Function. The steering committee
shall perform the following
functions:
• Evaluates and recommend to the
Municipal Mayor and Vice-mayor
employees under the Local
Government Unit for their possible
inclusion in the Visitors and
Tourism Assistants program;
• Accepts Visitors and Tourism
Assistants application from the
community;

62. Section 40. Granting benefits to Visitors and Tourism Assistants.
Subject to the availability of funds, Visitors and tourism
Assistants may be entitled to the following benefits:
• Honorarium and Overtime pay. Visitors and Tourism Assistants
coming from the community shall be entitled to an honorarium of
150% of the applicable minimum wage; while Visitors and tourism
Assistants from the municipality shall be entitled to overtime pay;
• Uniform. The Municipality of La Trinidad through the Municipal
Tourism Action Officer shall provide uniforms to selected Visitors and
tourism Assistant in the Municipality of La Trinidad.

63. Section 41. Capability Building program for the Visitors and Tourism Assistants. There shall be
conducted and implemented a series of capability building program for the Visitors and tourism
Assistants in the Municipality. The capability training program shall be geared in re-tooling and
enhancing the knowledge and skills of the Visitors and Tourism Assistants to handle visiting local or
international dignitaries and tourists.
• The capability training program includes, but not limited to the following:
• Basic Customer Service;
• Module on social graces; and Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette;
• Module on the Profile of the Municipality La Trinidad and its various
Tourism destination to be designed by the Municipal Tourism Services
Officer;
• Basic First Aid and life support;
• Department of Tourism Tour guiding training; and
• Other training programs as the Visitors and Tourism Assistants Steering
Committee may recommend.

64. ARTICLE XIII
CREATING THE POSITION OF TOURISM OPERATIONS OFFICER, I WITH SALARY GRADE
11 IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 03-01 FOR THIS PURPOSE.
Municipal Ordinance No. 7B-2013
• Section 2. Declaration. There shall be created a Tourism Operations Officer I, SG
11 which shall operate under the Office of the Municipal Mayor responsible for
setting the direction, development, implementation and coordination of
municipal tourism programs within its territorial jurisdiction.
• Section 3. Qualifications of the Tourism Operations Officer I. The Tourism
Operations Officer provided under Section 125 of the IRR of RA 9593 shall be
appointed by the Municipal Mayor based on the following qualifications:
• Must be a Filipino citizen permanently residing in the LGU where the position is
available.
• Must obtain relevant bachelor’s degree in tourism, business law, economics,
marketing, public administration or other related fields.
• At least five (5) years of substantial work experience and involvement in the
tourism industry either in the private sector or government; and
• Must undergo and pass the training programs undertaken by the Department.

65. Section 4. Functions of the Tourism Operations Officer I.
– The Tourism Operations Officer shall perform the
following functions;
• Prepare, implement, coordinate, monitor and update local tourism
development plans;
• Ensure the proper enforcement of tourism standards, laws, rules and
regulations;
• Submit regular reports on status of tourism plans and programs, tourist
arrivals, employment, occupancy rates, investment and tourist products,
among others, to the Department of Tourism;
• Coordinate with the Department of Tourism and its attached agencies and
corporations in regard to the development and promotion of tourism in
their locality.
• Assist tourism enterprises in the accreditation process offered by the
Department.
• Assist tourist and tourism enterprises in the delivery of services

66. • Maintain a logbook where all tourists shall register and possibly seek
assistance for whereabouts of tourism sites and destinations in the
Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet.
• Maintain a core group of accredited tour guides who shall be
responsible in assisting and guiding tourist and visitors to any of the
Municipality’s identified tourism site and destinations.
• He/she shall manage the Tourist Assistance and Information Center.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as maybe assigned by the
Municipal Mayor as it may relate to tourism.

67. • Section 5. Funding. The funding requirements for the creation of the
position of Tourism Operations Officer shall be incorporated in the
annual appropriation of the Municipality of La Trinidad subject to the
budgeting and accounting rules and regulations.
• Section 6. Separability Clause. – If for any reason or reasons, any
part or provision of this Ordinance shall be held to be unconstitutional
or invalid, other parts or provisions thereof which are not affected
shall continue to be in full force and effect.
• Section 7. Supplementary Clause. This ordinance shall be an
addendum to Ordinance 03-01 or “An ordinance Adopting and
establishing the organizational structure and staffing pattern in the
Municipal Government of La Trinidad, Benguet.

68. ARTICLE XIV
ESTABLISHING A TOURIST INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE CENTER AT THE
MUNICIPALITY OF LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR.
Municipal Ordinance No. 10-2012
• Section 1. Title. The title of the ordinance shall be “Establishing A
Tourist Information and Assistance Center at the Municipality of La
Trinidad, Benguet and Appropriating Funds Therefor.”, otherwise
known as the “La Trinidad Tourist Information and Assistance Center.”
• Section 2. Definition of terms.
• Section 3. A Tourist information and assistance center is hereby
established at the right corner basement of the La Trinidad
Gymnasium facade.
• Section 4. Management. The Tourist Information and Assistance
Center shall be managed by a Tourism Action Officer who shall be
appointed or designated by the Municipal Mayor.

69. Section 5. Functions. The Tourist Information and
Assistance Center through the Tourism Action Officer
shall;
a) Disseminate relevant information’s pertaining to tourist locations, products,
and services of the Municipality of La Trinidad.
b) Assist tourism enterprises in the accreditation process offered by the
Department.
c) Display pictures, captions and descriptions of tourist destination in the
Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet.
d) Prepare, implement, coordinate, monitor and update local tourism
development plans.
e) Ensure the proper enforcement of tourism standards, laws, rules and
regulations;
f) Submit regular reports on status of tourism plans and programs, tourist
arrivals, employment, occupancy rates, investment and tourist
products among others to the department;

70. g. Coordinate with the department and its attached agencies and
corporations in regard to the
development and promotion of tourism in their
locality;
h. Assist tourist and tourism enterprises in the delivery of services.
i. Maintain a logbook where all tourist shall register and possibly seek
assistance for whereabouts of tourism sites and destinations in the
Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet.
j. Maintain a core group of accredited tour guides who shall be
responsible in assisting and guiding tourist and visitors to any of the
Municipality’s identified tourism site and destinations.

71. • Section 6. Initial Funding. The Amount of Two Hundred Thousand
Pesos (P200,000.00) shall be appropriated from the annual budget of
the Municipality of La Trinidad to initially finance the purchase of
necessary supplies and materials for the Tourist Information and
Assistance Center.

72. ARTICLE XV
DECLARING THE GARDEN CITY CONFERENCE CENTER AS AN ECONOMIC ENTERPRISE
OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET.
Municipal Ordinance No. 12-2011
(Now the Strawberry Valley Hotel and Restaurant)
• “Section 1. Declaration. Declaring the Garden City Conference center
as an economic enterprise in the Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet.
• Section 2. Usage and purpose. The facility shall operate and be
maintained as hotel, restaurant, seminar and conference center,
souvenir shop and for other appropriate income generating purpose.