Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

‘Twentieth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. 3367

Introduced by Representative ZALDY “JECOY” S. VILLA

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL TASK FORCE FOR THE
PROTECTION AND ASSISTANCE OF TOURISTS

EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act No. 9593 otherwise known as Tourism Act of 2009 provides:

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. - The State declares tourism as an
indispensable element of the national economy and an industry of national interest
and importance, which must be harnessed as an engine of socio-economic growth
and cultural affirmation to generate investment, foreign exchange and
employment, and to continue to mold an enhanced sense of national pride for all
Filipinos.

Towards this end, the State shall seek to:
XXX

(b) Recognize sustainable tourism development as integral to the national socio-
economic development efforts to improve the quality of life of the Filipino people,
providing the appropriate attention and support for the growth of this industry

XXX,

Tourism plays a vital role in our country’s economy. It creates jobs, supports local business,
and showcases the beauty and culture of our people to the world. But more than just
economic benefits, tourism is about building trust when visitors feel safe, welcomed, and
cared for, they leave with positive experiences that they carry with them for life

Unfortunately, there are times when tourists—whether local or foreign face challenges such
as scams, emergencies, accidents, or even natural disasters. When these happen, the lack of
coordination between government agencies can delay help, damage our reputation, and
discourage future visits.


This bill proposes the creation of an Intergovernmental Task Force for the Protection and
Assistance of Tourists, which will bring together national and local government agencies to
work hand in hand. The goal is to ensure that tourists have quick, efficient, and
compassionate support when they need it most, be it for medical help, safety concerns, legal
aid, or general assistance.

‘The task force will not only respond to emergencies but will also proactively create systems
and protocols to improve tourist safety, streamline services, and promote a culture of
hospitality rooted in accountability and care.

By passing this measure, we are not just improving the tourism experience, we are also
protecting the image and integrity of our nation. A safe and welcoming country is one that
people will want to visit again and again

Let us take this step to make the Philippines not only a beautiful destination, but a safe and
caring one, too.

In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is eamestly sought.

ZALDY %, YY” S. VILLA


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

‘Twentieth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 3367

Introduced by Representative ZALDY “JECOY” S. VILLA

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL TASK FORCE FOR THE
PROTECTION AND ASSISTANCE OF TOURISTS

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representative of the Philippines Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. ~ This Act shall be known as “Tourists Protection and Assistance
Act”

SECTION 2. Declaration of Principles. — The State recognizes tourism as a major
contributor to the country’s economic growth. Towards this end, the State shall endeavor to
enact measures for the protection and assistance of tourists, both domestic and foreign,
during their travel around the country.

SECTION 3. Tourists Protection and Assistance Task Force. ~ Within Nine (9) months
after the approval of this Act, the Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT) shall
establish an intergovernmental task force to be known as “Tourists Protection and
Assistance Task Force”, hereinafter referred to as the “Task Force”.

It shall be the duty of the Task Force to facilitate, through the concerned national
government agencies and local government units (LGUs), the following:

(a) Adoption of uniform standards on signage for use throughout the Philippines in
order to facilitate travel in the country;

(b) Provision of directional signages in tourism in tourism facilities and destinations,
including airports, seaports, land border crossings, highways, and bus, train, and
other public transit locations;

(c) Preparation and dissemination of multilingual travel and tourism information
and promotional materials,

(d) Establishment of a toll-free telephone assistance system run by multilingual


operators to provide assistance to domestic and foreign tourists;

(€) Coordination with LGUs the establishment of tourist help desk in identified
tourist destinations; and

(f) Institution of measures to prevent unlawful acts or harassment committed on
tourists.

SECTION 4, Composition of the Task Force. ~ The Task Force shall be composed of the
following:

(a) Secretary of DOT or the duly designated representative, as Chairperson;

(b) Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government or the duly
designated representative, as Vice Chairperson;

(c) Secretary of the Department of Transportation or the duly designated
representative;

(d) Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways or the duly
representative;

(€) Secretary of the Department of Justice or the duly designated representative;

(f) Director General of the Philippine National Police or the duly designated
representative;

(g) A representative from the Road Board of the Philippines; and

(h) Such other representatives of other government agencies and private sector
entities as may be determined to be appropriate to the mission of the Task Force
by the Chairperson, as members.

‘The Task Force shall meet whenever necessary.

SECTION 5. Funding, - The amount necessary to cover the expenses for the operation of
the Task Force shall be charge against the existing appropriation of the DOT as contained
in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Funds for the implementation of the programs and projects that shall be approved by the
Task Force shall be included in the appropriation of the implementing agencies
concerned. For LGUs, funding shall be taken from their internal revenue allotment and other
internally generated income.

SECTION 6. Separability Clause. ~ If any provision or part hereof is held invalid or
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall
remain valid and subsisting.


SECTION 7. Repealing Clause. All laws, presidential decrees or issuances, executive
orders, letter of instruction, administrative orders, rules and regulations contrary to or
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, modified or amended
accordingly.

SECTION 8, Effectivity. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in
the Official Gazette or in newspaper of general circulation

Approved,