Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay convened the heads of DOT attached agencies on Thursday (April 16) at the DOT Central Office in Makati to discuss priority programs, projects, and initiatives aimed at boosting tourism investments and aligning these with the infrastructure and development agenda of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Present during the meeting were Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid; Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita M. Nograles; Intramuros Administration Administrator Atty. Joan M. Padilla; and National Parks Development Committee Executive Director Cecille A. Lorenzana-Romero.
Also in attendance were Duty Free Philippines Corporation Chief Operating Officer Patrick Joel M. Cinco; Philippine Retirement Authority General Manager Roberto Z. Zozobrado; Nayong Pilipino Foundation Executive Director Dr. Marygrace A. Ac-ac; and Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving Executive Director Marco Angelo Ancheta.
Earlier, Secretary Angara-Mathay convened the DOT Executive Committee following her oath of office, underscoring the need for clarity of purpose, strong coordination, and steady leadership as the Department navigates an increasingly complex global environment.
“I join the Department at a time when the global environment remains uncertain and increasingly complex. These conditions call for clarity of purpose, strong coordination, and steady leadership across all levels of the Department,” said the DOT Chief.
“Tourism remains a vital pillar of inclusive economic growth. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that the sector continues to support livelihoods, strengthen enterprises, and create opportunities for our communities,” she added.
In her first message to DOT employees, Secretary Angara-Mathay also emphasized that tourism remains a vital pillar of inclusive economic growth and reaffirmed the Department’s responsibility to ensure that the sector continues to support livelihoods, strengthen enterprises, and create opportunities for communities nationwide.
“I count on every member of the Department—across all levels—to bring your professionalism, dedication, and sense of purpose, as we work together in a spirit of accountability, collaboration, and service. Together, we will focus on doing the work needed to support Philippine tourism and the people who depend on it. Thank you for your continued service. Maraming salamat at mabuhay ang turismo ng Pilipinas,” said Secretary Angara-Mathay.
