Cebu City, Philippines—In a landmark partnership, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) have joined forces to offer free legal aid to accredited tourism stakeholders and frontline workers, particularly those from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
These services will be available in all IBP chapters nationwide.
The partnership was announced by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and IBP National President Atty. Antonio C. Pido in Lahug, Cebu City, on Thursday (Jan. 30), during the opening ceremony of the 20th National Convention of Lawyers.
In her message, Secretary Frasco described the partnership as a shared commitment between the DOT and IBP.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth in our country, strengthening our institutions, and advancing the interests of our people. The collaboration between the Department of Tourism and the IBP symbolizes the power of unity in addressing critical needs in our communities, especially ensuring that justice and legal assistance are regularly accessible to tourism stakeholders,” she said, emphasizing the importance of building a robust and inclusive tourism landscape by heavily involving MSMEs to empower and sustain the industry.
As part of the agreement, the DOT and IBP will coordinate on the proposed establishment of 24/7 tourist courts—another flagship project of the DOT under the Marcos Administration. These courts aim to facilitate the swift resolution of tourist-related incidents in key destinations across the country, particularly in areas with high tourist concentrations.
Secretary Frasco commended the IBP for partnering with the DOT, noting its support as crucial in the Department’s thrust to uplift communities: “I commend the IBP, under the leadership of Atty. Antonio C. Pido and all of your governors, for your unwavering dedication to improving the administration of justice and upholding the rule of law. Your commitment to public service, particularly through legal aid, reflects the very best of what it means to be stewards of justice and champions of our communities. As we formalize this partnership, let us be reminded that our shared goals transcend the confines of our respective mandates. This collaboration is not just about revisions, policies, or programs—it’s about the lives that we touch and the futures that we shape by way of our transformative power of tourism.”
The partnership will extend benefits to IBP members, allowing them to avail of the DOT-IBP virtual Privilege Card, which offers special discounts from participating DOT-accredited enterprises, including MSMEs. The virtual card will be integrated into the existing IBP application, where users can access a list of participating accredited tourism establishments. By taking advantage of the privilege card, IBP members can experience and promote the country’s diverse tourism offerings while contributing to the sector’s continued growth.
Additionally, the two-year agreement permits the IBP to incorporate the Love The Philippines tourism branding into its marketing materials.
For his part, Atty. Pido recognized the role of lawyers in nation-building and highlighted how the partnership will benefit both the legal community and the local economy.
“We celebrate a significant partnership that aims to provide benefits to our lawyers in good standing across the country. Today marks a significant milestone for the IBP. We recognize the vital role that lawyers play in our society, and this partnership with the Department of Tourism is a great way to show our appreciation. The discount cards will allow our members to enjoy the best of what our country has to offer while also uplifting the tourism sector. We are excited about this initiative and look forward to the positive impact on our legal community and the economy,” he said.
Government officials who are also present during the event are Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, Associate Justices Amy Lazaro-Javier, Jhosep Lopez, Antonio T. Kho, Jr., Jose Midas P. Marquez, Japar B. Dimaampao, Samuel H. Gaerlan, Mario V. Lopez, Rodil V. Zalameda , Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, former Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia, House Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, and Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin N. Garcia.