Philippine 24/7 Tourist Courts to Boost Security for International Travellers

In a significant move to enhance the safety and trust of international tourists, the Philippines is set to introduce dedicated Philippine 24/7 tourist courts. This initiative is designed to swiftly address crimes involving tourists, ensuring that visitors feel secure while enjoying their stay in the country. The introduction of these courts is part of a broader effort by the Philippine government to bolster tourism by addressing safety concerns that have affected the country’s image in the past.

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Details on the proposed Philippine 24/7 tourist courts

As of 19 Aug 2024, the Philippines has welcomed 3,860,730 international visitors, with the majority coming from South Korea, the United States, Japan, China, Australia, Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia. Given this influx of tourists, ensuring their safety has become a top priority for the Department of Tourism (DOT).

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, in a recent meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang, proposed the establishment of these specialised tourist courts. The proposal has received the support of the president, along with key government agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

“We are now working with the DOJ, and we will be collaborating with the judiciary department for the establishment of a 24-hour tourist court to resolve crimes related to our tourists,” Secretary Frasco stated during a budget meeting for the DOT at the House of Representatives in Quezon City. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to restore and build confidence among international visitors.

Increased police presence 

In addition to the tourist courts, the DOT is also increasing police presence in areas with high tourist traffic. Already, 8,000 police officers have undergone special training through the Department’s Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection program. This move is aimed at deterring criminal activities and providing immediate assistance to tourists in need.

The need for such measures was highlighted by a recent incident in June, where four police officers were arrested for kidnapping four foreign tourists. The incident, which shocked the nation, underscored the urgency of addressing security concerns for tourists. While two of the kidnapped tourists managed to escape and alert authorities, the remaining two were released only after a ransom was paid. Thanks to the information provided by the victims and camera footage, the perpetrators were eventually apprehended.

Also read: President Marcos Jr. Unveils Philippines' Experiential Tourism Plans

With these new initiatives, the Philippines is taking significant steps to ensure that tourists can explore the country’s beautiful destinations with peace of mind. The introduction of 24/7 tourist courts and an increased police presence are clear signals of the government's commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors.

Featured image credit: Camille Morales via Canva Pro