Name, Powers, and Corporate Attributes
- Corporation named "The Philippine Tourist and Travel Association, Inc.".
- Powers include the ability to sue and be sued, acquire and hold property, accept donations, and establish a corporate seal and emblems.
- Authority to enact by-laws and regulations consistent with Philippine laws to fulfill its mandate.
Core Purposes and Functions
- Promotion and development of tourism within and to the Philippines.
- Formulating integrated programs involving government, private sectors, and individuals.
- Publicity and promotional campaigns locally and internationally using diverse media.
- Maintaining services that facilitate travel, accommodation, tours, and entertainments.
- Encouraging educational tours and domestic travel to foster national unity and pride.
- Installation of markers and guidance for tourist spots, and development of transport and accommodation facilities.
- Supporting businesses that serve tourists and enhance tourism-related commerce.
- Promoting a service-oriented culture with emphasis on courtesy, efficiency, and affordability for tourists.
- Publishing authoritative tourist information and cultural literature.
- Hiring specialized consultants or firms for promotional tasks.
- Representing the government in international tourism and travel matters.
- Conducting any transactions necessary to accomplish corporate objectives.
Membership Provisions
- Open to Philippine residents.
- Membership contributions and classifications established by the corporation's by-laws.
- Possibility of junior memberships under Board regulation.
Governance Structure and Regulation
- Governance vested in a Board of Supervisors with 15 members.
- Eight members appointed by the President, the rest elected by members of the Corporation.
- One-year term with provisions for filling vacancies.
- Powers to adopt and amend by-laws and regulate local units (provincial/city bureaus).
Officers and Compensation
- President of the Philippines acts as honorary President.
- Elected officers include Chairman, President (also Vice-Chairman), three Vice-Presidents, and Treasurer.
- Officers serve one-year terms and, except Treasurer, are unpaid.
- Appointment of Secretary and other staff by Corporation President, subject to Board approval.
Funding and Financial Management
- Financed primarily by member dues, contributions from campaigns, bequests, and donations.
- Government funds matched by the Corporation on at least a 1:1 ratio before release.
- Government contributions capped with specifications for use, e.g., not less than 75% on international publicity.
Initial Organization and Transition
- Upon enactment, immediate readiness notification to the President.
- Presidential appointment of eight Board members triggers full Board constitution and election of officers.
- Transfer of relevant government agencies and activities related to tourism promotion to the Corporation.
Government Appropriation
- Annual government appropriation of 75,000 Philippine pesos from the National Treasury.
- Requirement for the Corporation to raise an equal amount annually to operate.
- At least 75% of government funds allocated for international publicity and advertising.
Reporting Requirements
- Annual reports to the President and Congress detailing activities, finances, sources of income, and expenditures.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.