QuestionsQuestions (OTS)
A “tour guide” is an individual licensed by the Department of Tourism to guide tourists (foreign and domestic) for a fee, commission, or any other lawful remuneration.
Only Filipino citizens may qualify; however, aliens with permanent resident status may be granted a license if Filipino tour guides are allowed to guide in the alien’s country.
(1) Proof of having passed a seminar (or waiver); (2) Certificate of good health from any duly accredited government physician; (3) NBI clearance; (4) Latest Income Tax Return.
Proof of employment with a duly licensed agency, permit to work or registration certificate from DOLE, appropriate visa from the Commission on Immigration and Deportation, and proof of reciprocity authenticated in accordance with Act No. 2103.
Seventy Five Pesos (P75.00) per year.
Valid until 31 December of the next two succeeding years. Licensed tour guides must submit copies of their latest Income Tax Returns annually.
Between 15 December to 15 January every two (2) years.
Renewal requires the same requirements under Section 3 except the Affidavit of Proof of having passed a Seminar and the Proof of Reciprocity; however, the affidavit is required if the applicant has been inactive or has not exercised the profession for more than two (2) years.
A surcharge of 100% of the regular license fee.
They must wear the Identification Card issued by the Department while performing duties.
Twenty (P20.00) pesos.
(1) Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude; and (2) conviction more than once of any acts enumerated under the immediately succeeding section.
(1) Any overt act of dishonesty, misrepresentation, or misconduct against a member of the tour group or against employer or co-employee; (2) forced tipping or contributions from tourists; (3) failure to comply with compulsory wearing of the ID; (4) violation of any provisions of the rules, circulars, and orders of the Department.
No. Violators (or those causing another to violate) upon conviction suffer imprisonment of not less than one (1) year nor more than six (6) years or a fine of not less than P4,000 nor more than P20,000, or both, at the court’s discretion under PD 1463.
The Department shall exercise quasi-judicial powers in resolution of cases filed against tour guides, in accordance with its rules and procedures governing complaints.
Information and documents are confidential and cannot be divulged to any private party without consent or an order of the Secretary of Tourism. Violating officials/employees are guilty of an offense under applicable laws and rules.
Adopt any suitable procedure or mode of proceeding conformable to the purposes, intent, and spirit of the rules.
Not less than One Thousand Pesos (P1,000) nor more than Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000).
Fifteen (15) days after publication in the Official Gazette or in a national newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.