Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 120)
The Executive Order No. 120 shall be known as the Reorganization Act of the Ministry of Tourism.
The policy of the State is to promote, encourage and develop Philippine tourism as a major national activity involving private sector investment and support, to accelerate socio-economic development, earn foreign exchange, and enhance national pride.
The Ministry of Tourism is the primary government agency responsible for encouraging, promoting, and developing tourism as a major socio-economic activity to generate foreign currency, employment, and spread tourism benefits widely while ensuring the safety and convenience of tourists.
(1) Advising the President on tourism-related laws and policies; (2) Formulating policies and plans for tourism development; (3) Promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination including marketing and ensuring pleasant stay of tourists.
The authority and responsibility for the exercise of the Ministry's mandate and functions are vested in the Minister of Tourism, who is appointed by the President.
There are four Deputy Ministers assisting the Minister: (1) Planning, Product Development and Coordination; (2) Tourism Services and Regional Offices; (3) Tourism Promotions; (4) Internal Services.
It approves construction standards of tourism-oriented establishments, formulates operating standards, regulates and issues licenses to travel agencies, encourages industry associations, assists in auditioning Filipino entertainers, and coordinates enforcement of tourism regulations.
The Bureau of Tourism Services and Bureau of Tourism Promotions were abolished, with their functions transferred to other offices. The Civil Aeronautics Board was transferred to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications. The Intramuros Administration and National Parks Development Committee were transferred to the Ministry of Tourism.
The Minister shall approve and prescribe the new position structure and staffing pattern within 120 days from the approval of this Executive Order and may fill positions by regular appointments.
No change in the reorganization shall be valid except upon prior approval of the President to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in public service delivery.