Department of Tourism logo.
MANILA -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) warned the public against transportation providers using their logo to overcharge customers.
"The Department reminds the public that pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 2018-03 otherwise known as Establishment of the Progressing Accreditation System and its Implementing Guidelines, only accredited tourism enterprises can display in a conspicuous place in their establishment the DOT Tourism Quality Seal and Accreditation Number," a DOT advisory read.
"The Department of Tourism, likewise, clarifies that it does not impose tariff rates for all the Accredited Tourism Transportation Services (i.e., yellow metered, coupon taxi, and yellow taxi stationed at the airport)," it added.
The agency said only the DOT Tourism Quality Seal can be used and displayed by accredited tourism enterprises and not the DOT’s official logo.
Under the existing law, the authority that sets rates is the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which is in-charge of issuing franchise for public conveyance, it added.
The advisory was issued after a recent warning from the Manila International Airport Authority about overcharged transport rate cards used by several transport providers.
These transport providers have reportedly been using the DOT “logo” in their rate cards without valid authorization from the said agency. (PNA)
