Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 403)
The main purpose of Executive Order No. 403 is to adopt a Philippine Tourism Highway Program to further develop and promote the tourism potentials of the country and establish a Presidential Task Force for its implementation.
The Program covers the national road network where tourism areas are located, including scenic spots that showcase the local landscape and tourism attractions such as historical and other easily accessible tourist sites.
The Program aims to link the country’s tourism areas through the national highway system, stretching from Manila to Laoag City via the Cagayan Valley Region, and from Manila to Mindanao via Bicol and Eastern Visayas Regions, promoting development, preservation, accessibility, safety, and affordability for tourists.
The Task Force is chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Members include Secretaries of DPWH, DILG, DTI, DA, DENR, DOE, DOTC, DND, as well as heads of the National Historical Institute, National Power Corporation, National Youth Commission, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Travel Agencies Association, and Philippine Tour Operators Association.
The Task Force is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of the Philippine Tourism Highway Program, identifying road and tourism area coverage, installing markers, regulating and monitoring activities that may harm tourism aesthetics, and formulating project components and funding sources.
Measures include enhancing existing tourism attractions, constructing and maintaining rest areas and view decks, providing basic services like electricity and telecommunications, implementing the freedom trail program, showcasing local products, and promoting the DOT Home-Stay Program.
The program is funded through the respective implementing agencies' budgets, with possible augmentation through private sector investments via BOT schemes and donations from foreign and local organizations.
The private sector, including youth groups and NGOs, is encouraged to actively participate in maintaining rest areas, establishing one-stop tourism centers, and creating conducive tourism environments along the tourism highway.
The Department of Tourism shall establish a Secretariat providing technical and administrative support to the Presidential Task Force, and may seek assistance from other government agencies as needed.
An initial amount of P25 million is allocated from the Trust Liability Account and Savings of the DOT and its attached agencies to fund the first year of operation.
The Presidential Task Force must submit regular reports to the President on its activities, including policy and program recommendations to improve the Tourism Highway Program.
The Order took effect immediately upon its signing on February 28, 1997.