Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 120)
The Minister of Tourism is appointed by the President of the Philippines.
The State aims to promote, encourage, and develop Philippine tourism to generate foreign exchange, create employment, foster private sector investment, and enhance national pride and international appreciation of the Philippines.
(a) Formulate policies and programs for tourism development; (b) Promote and ensure hospitable entry and stay of tourists; (c) Regulate and license tourism-oriented establishments and travel agencies.
Its role includes approving construction standards of tourism establishments, formulating operating standards, regulating travel agencies, encouraging industry associations, assisting in auditioning Filipino entertainers, and coordinating enforcement of tourism regulations.
The Ministry Proper (Office of the Minister and Deputy Ministers), Services, Bureaus, Offices, Regional Offices, and Foreign Field Offices.
The Ministry is tasked with promoting the protection, maintenance, and preservation of historical, cultural, and natural tourist attractions in coordination with appropriate government agencies or private owners.
The Ministry coordinates with government agencies, civil and military, local government units, and private sectors to implement tourism policies, develop infrastructure, and enforce regulations.
They continue in a hold-over capacity performing their duties and receiving salaries and benefits unless separated from service pursuant to EO No. 17 (1986) or the Freedom Constitution provisions; eventually, the Minister will approve the new staffing structure.
No changes shall be valid except upon prior approval of the President for the purpose of promoting efficiency and effective delivery of public services.