DOT, IBP partner to offer free legal aid to tourism stakeholders, MSMEs

Cebu City — The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) have teamed up to provide free legal aid to accredited tourism stakeholders and frontline workers, particularly those from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The services will be available through IBP chapters nationwide.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and IBP National President Atty. Antonio C. Pido announced the partnership on Thursday, 30 January, during the opening ceremony of the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Lahug, Cebu City.

Frasco emphasized the partnership's role in fostering inclusive growth and improving access to legal assistance for tourism stakeholders, particularly MSMEs, to strengthen the industry.

As part of the agreement, the DOT and IBP will will work together to establish 24/7 tourist courts to address tourist-related incidents in key destinations across the country.

The agreement also includes providing legal aid to tourism stakeholders and MSMEs. DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco acknowledged the IBP’s support, highlighting its importance in improving access to justice for communities.

As part of the collaboration, IBP members will receive a virtual Privilege Card offering discounts at participating DOT-accredited businesses, including MSMEs. The IBP can also incorporate the “Love The Philippines” branding in 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,” said Pido. “The discount cards will allow our members to enjoy the best of what our country has to offer while uplifting the tourism sector. We are excited about this initiative and look forward to the positive impact on our legal community and the economy.”

Government officials present at the event included Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, and others.