LEGAZPI CITY -- The regional office of the Department of Tourism based in this city has refered to a memorandum circular issued by Tourism Secretary Joseph H. Durano reminding hotels and other accommodation establishments “not to allow the entry in their premises of non-DOT accredited tour guides or those with expired accreditation.”

        Tourism Regional Director Maria ‘Nini’ Ravanilla said that the warning is in line with the department’s thrust of ensuring safe, convenient and enjoyable stay and travel of both local and foreign tourists anywhere in the Philippines.

        Secretary Durano’s Memorandum Circular No. 2008-01 also advises tour operators to furnish the Department of Tourism with the names of their staff guides who may undergo training to qualify for accreditation.

        Failure to comply with the order shall be a valid ground for the revocation or non-issuance of DOT accreditation, Secretary Durano said.