Classification of Resorts (Chapter II, Section 3 Amendment)
- Resorts are classified into four categories for registration and licensing purposes:
- Class "AAA"
- Class "AA"
- Class "A"
- Special Interest Resort
Definition and Characteristics of Special Interest Resorts
- Special Interest Resorts are defined as resorts located in appropriate natural settings such as seaside, mountains, forests, lakes, or rivers.
- They provide facilities and equipment for special activities including but not limited to:
- Skin and scuba diving
- Sailing and water skiing
- Wildlife observation and bird watching
- Cave exploration, backpacking, hiking, camping
- Trail riding (motorized or horseback)
- Tribal visits and safaris
- Target shooting and hunting
- Theme parks, especially marine or aquarium parks, may be included under this classification.
Minimum Requirements for Special Interest Resorts
- Location:
- Site must be well-drained, free from flooding, distant from nuisances, and safe from contamination of water and natural resources.
- Lounge and Reception:
- Must have a reception counter and a lounge suitably furnished for the resort size.
- Room Accommodation:
- For permanent sites: at least five bedrooms with adequate beds, clean linen, mirrors, and electric fans (where electricity is available).
- For movable operations: capacity for at least sixteen guests plus staff using tents or similar structures, with permanent tents elevated at least four inches above ground.
- Adequate bedding suitable for tropical conditions required.
- Theme parks may be exempted from this requirement.
- Toilet and Bathroom Facilities:
- Separate clean toilets and bathrooms for males and females, with running water, soap, and toilet paper.
- Campsites for mobile groups must provide portable chemical toilets or sanitary latrines meeting Philippine standards.
- Lighting, Furnishings, and Ventilation:
- Rooms must have good quality lighting and furnishings.
- Non-electrical sites require non-hazardous portable lighting.
- Adequate ventilation must be ensured.
- Staff and Service:
- Employ trained, experienced, courteous, and efficient staff.
- Staff must wear clean uniforms and front-line employees should have a good command of English.
Annual General Liability Insurance (Chapter IV, Section 18(d) Amendment)
- Resorts must maintain annual general liability insurance for guests with the following minimum amounts:
- Class "AAA": ₱100,000
- Class "AA": ₱50,000
- Class "A": ₱20,000
- Special Interest Resort: ₱20,000
Registration and Annual License Fees (Chapter IV, Section 26 Amendment)
- Fee schedules for registration are as follows:
- Class "AAA": ₱5,000
- Class "AA": ₱3,000
- Class "A": ₱1,500
- Special Interest Resort: ₱1,500
- Annual license fees are:
- Class "AAA": ₱2,000
- Class "AA": ₱1,000
- Class "A": ₱500
- Special Interest Resort: ₱500
Effectivity
- These amendments took immediate effect upon adoption on August 9, 1990.
The foregoing amendments ensure that the classification, regulation, safety, facility standards, insurance requirements, and financial obligations of resorts in the Philippines are clearly defined and enforced, particularly recognizing the unique needs of Special Interest Resorts.