Metro drivers to train on tourism awareness

By: Emme Rose Santiagudo

Following the successful launch of its tourism awareness program entitled “Joyride Ta” in December 2018, the City Tourism and Development Office (CTDO) is now preparing to roll out the second round of the program that will target public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who are in direct contact with guests and tourists.

According to CTDO head Junel Ann Divinagracia, they start the second round of the “Joyride Ta” program after the May 13, 2019 elections.

“We want to reach out to our drivers because sila ang may in direct contact with our guests and nami if kabalo sila mag-describe sang aton mga lugar,” Divinagracia said in an interview.

The “Joyride Ta” is a tourism awareness program of the CTDO was initially aimed at frontliners to equip them with the knowledge of various tourism and cultural sites in the metro.

Last December 2018, at least 200 frontliners of tourism-oriented and related establishments such as hotels and restaurants availed of the “Joyride Ta” program.

Divinagracia said female senior citizens also joined the program in March 2019 as part of the Women’s Month celebration.

Divinagracia said around 300 tourism frontliners and senior citizens have availed of the program.

But she said the number is not enough.

“Ang 300 nga na is not enough because linibo pa ang aton mga frontliners,” she said.

Aside from PUV drivers, Divinagracia said they will also target receptionists of different agencies.

She also underscored the need to increase tourism awareness of Ilonggos to foster the culture of tourism and attract more guests.

“Sige-sige aton tourism awareness para ang culture of tourism matudlo naton sa ila. We want them to be updated of the present developments here in the city,” Divinagracia said.

Iloilo City surpassed the tourism arrivals of Boracay in 2018 after attracting 1,242,087 visitors.

Divinagracia said guests from Boracay spilled over to Iloilo City following its 6-month closure from April to October 2018.