DOT 'taking seriously' reports of overpriced food in Panglao

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has thanked the local governments of Bohol and Panglao for investigating the reported overpricing of food by vendors at the Virgin Island.

In a statement, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Governor Aris Aumentado and Mayor Boy Arcay have also taken initial steps at regulating food prices at the tourist spots.

The DOT made the remark after a group of tourists were reportedly charged P26,000 for seafood served on the beach.

"The alleged overpricing of seafood by vendors in Virgin Island, Panglao, Bohol is a matter that the Department of Tourism (DOT) takes seriously especially as it concerns the welfare of tourists whose continued support for our destinations is critical to the recovery of the tourism industry," Frasco said.

"My office has been in touch with the LGUs, and I thank Governor Aris Aumentado and Mayor Boy Arcay for immediately initiating an investigation into this matter, and taking initial steps at regulation," she added.

Aumentado has ordered the suspension of motorbanca trips to Panglao’s Virgin island pending investigation into the incident of overpriced seafood sold in the area.

In a statement on Facebook, Aumentado said the Bohol local government was alarmed over the report that a group of tourists were charged P26,000 for seafood served at the island.

Aumentado said he was calling for an emergency meeting to discuss the situation.

DTI

The DOT is also coordinating with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) "as it is imperative that reasonable pricing standards are upheld for purposes of consumer protection."

"Our Regional Office is also coordinating with the LGUs to provide guidance on standards for the provision of tourist goods and services, and we will extend trainings to the frontline tourism workers and stakeholders involved to safeguard the overall tourist experience in the Island," Frasco said.

"While the DOT understands the current predicament and challenges faced by many tourism-related businesses... I believe that due care must always be given to the overall experience of tourists whether it concerns upholding the quality of accommodations, attaining a certain level of service, or ensuring the reasonable pricing of products," she added.

"Tourism is a shared responsibility, and it is in helping each other along this period of recovery that we can fully enjoy the benefits that tourism brings," Frasco said. —Sundy Locus/NB/KG, GMA News