DOT halts star rating for accommodations

The Department of Tourism (DoT) has announced Thursday evening that the classification assessment for accommodations is temporarily suspended.

The agency made the announcement through the Office of Tourism Standards and Regulation-Standards Monitoring and Enforcement Division (OTSR-SMED), stating the temporary suspension of Star Rating Classification Assessment for Hotels, Resorts and Apartment Hotels effective immediately until further notice.

DoT explained that the suspension is in line with the ongoing evaluation and augmentation of the current assessment guidelines and process, ensuring its alignment with the 2024 National Accommodation Standards.

“During this period, all on-site assessments shall be deferred, including re-assessment requests for previously evaluated properties. All applications received before the issuance of this Advisory shall be given priority once the conduct of Star Rating Assessment resumes,” the statement read.

However, DoT assured that the Regional Offices will proceed with new and renewal applications for accreditation of accommodation establishments and further updates will be issued.

They also guaranteed everyone that the break is planned to ensure improved efficiency, transparency, and overall service quality upon resumption of the operations.