The Department of Tourism (DOT) has come up with the initial draft of the Tourism Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) Operations Manual following a three-day workshop in Siargao Island.

In a statement Friday, the DOT in the Caraga Region (DOT-13) said the activity was aimed to further refine and finalize the initial draft of the manual, which will function as a comprehensive guide on disaster management related to tourism and recovery measures.

“This manual will be covering key aspects like risk assessment, readiness, prevention, and mitigation, including the response strategies, and recovery measures,” the DOT-13 said.

The workshop that ended Thursday was attended by representatives from the DOT Central Office, led by Assistant Secretary Christopher Morales, who also serves as the chairperson of the DOT-DRRM Management Committee.

Representatives from the DOT regional offices joined the activity and shared their insights and perspectives to enhance the content of the drafted DRRM manual.

In a phone interview also on Friday, DOT-13 operations officer Artemio Menchavez Jr. said the polishing process of the manual mainly involved the definition of protocols in times of disasters among the DOT, local government units and tourism-related establishments.

“The draft will undergo validation on the ground to assess its effectiveness before it will be approved by the DOT Secretary,” Menchavez said.

After the validation of the draft, more workshops will take place, he added.

In a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency Friday, DOT-13 Director Ivonne Dumadag said the DRRM Operations Manual ensures the safety of guests, staff, and infrastructure during emergencies.

“This manual also holds significant importance for LGUs engaged in tourism as it provides a comprehensive guide designed to shield tourists, residents, and local assets during disasters,” she added.

Dumadag said that through a well-defined protocols and guidelines, LGUs can enhance preparedness, coordinate responses, and minimize disruptions to tourism activities.

DOT-13 said the Tourism DRRM Operations Manual is in line with the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 and several department orders. (PNA)