ILOILO City – The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas has issued a warning to travelers after receiving multiple complaints involving fraudulent online travel agencies allegedly using fake government documents and falsified accreditation certificates to lure victims with suspiciously cheap travel packages.
In a tourism advisory released on June 3, DOT Region 6 said the proliferation of bogus online travel and tour operators has become a growing concern. It urged tourists planning to visit Western Visayas to verify the legitimacy of travel providers before making any payments.
“DOT-6 strongly warns all tourists planning to visit the region to refrain from and immediately stop transacting with unverified and online travel and tours agencies offering suspiciously cheap or ‘too good to be true’ travel packages,” the agency said in its advisory.
According to DOT-6, the warning was prompted by multiple complaints involving fraudulent online travel agencies that allegedly used falsified DOT accreditation certificates and fake Local Government Unit (LGU) business permits to deceive unsuspecting travelers.
The agency encouraged victims and affected individuals to formally report such incidents to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC) to facilitate proper investigation and legal action against those behind the scams.
DOT-6 reiterated its call for tourists to transact only with DOT-accredited establishments to ensure safe, secure, and quality tourism services while visiting the region. It advised travelers to verify accreditation through official DOT platforms before booking tours, accommodations, or travel packages.
The tourism office also reminded the public that verification and assistance may be obtained through the DOT’s Tourist Assistance Hotline and other official communication channels:
* Department of Tourism Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism)
* DOT Region 6 – Western Cisayas (https://www.facebook.com/DOTR6WesternVisayas)
* Philippines Travel Portal (https://philippines.travel/)
* DOT Website (https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/)
For verification and assistance, contact: Tourist Assistance Hotline (151-TOUR (151-8687) and mobile (+63 954-253-3215); and email (touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph).
DOT-6 said it remains committed to protecting visitors and ensuring safe and enjoyable travel experiences across Western Visayas amid the increasing threat posed by online travel scams./PN
