MANILA – Tourists can access support from Korean-speaking agents beginning this month through the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) expanded Tourist Assistance Call Center (TACC).
DOT said recruiting Korean-speaking support agents reflects its commitment to enhance services for travelers from South Korea, the country’s largest source of inbound tourists.
Travelers can now receive direct assistance from a dedicated Korean-speaking agent Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Philippine time). “As South Korea continues to be our top inbound market, this initiative ensures that Korean travelers can easily access assistance, allowing them to fully enjoy the warmth, hospitality and attractions that make the Philippines a destination to love,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said.
“In alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a digitally empowered government, the DOT is dedicated to improving its platforms to deliver accessible, efficient and world-class service to all tourists, both domestic and international,” she added.
The TACC had facilitated at least 13,502 transactions as of January 30, and had serviced tourists from 71 nations, with the Philippines, the United States, and Australia being the most represented. Common inquiries include general tourism questions, travel and tour services, DOT accreditation, and career opportunities.
A DOT flagship program under Frasco, the TACC was recognized as one of Asia’s premier customer support platforms and was recently awarded Best in Service – Customer Support (Regional Level) at the Asia Best of Best Awards 2024 held in Dubai United Arab Emirates.
“The DOT is working to expand multilingual support services, including Mandarin and other languages, for a more diverse range of travelers. We understand the role of language accessibility in creating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience,” Frasco added.
In 2024, the Philippines welcomed 1,574,152 visitors from South Korea, representing an 8.1% increase from 1,455,977 arrivals in 2023. Arrivals also grew by 2.2% from the 1,539,402 arrivals in 2019 or before the Covid-19 pandemic.
South Korea captured 26.46% of the total tourist arrivals last year.
For seamless and responsive assistance, tourists can contact the TACC through various platforms — mobile hotline +63-954-2533215; landline 151-TOUR (151-8687); via email at touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph; Facebook Messenger account Department of Tourism – Philippines; and Click2Call and Live Webchat services on beta.tourism.gov.ph. (PNA)