The Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office (ESPPO) officially opened the four-day Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) seminar on July 7 at the governor’s conference hall.
The seminar brings together 50 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel to strengthen their capabilities in ensuring the safety and security of tourists while supporting the province’s tourism development.
The first day of the seminar featured a series of lectures from tourism and public safety experts.
Police Capt. Amie Centro-Tiu, chief of the Tourist Security and Protection Section of the PNP Public Safety Division, discussed the TOPCOP overview, highlighting the role and mission of tourist police and the basic principles of tourist safety.
Rodel Balierbare, supervising tourism operations officer of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VIII, presented an overview of the Philippine tourism industry, focusing on the DOT’s mandate and its attached agencies under Republic Act 9593 and RA 2069.
Provincial Tourism Officer Neil Alejandro Pinarok presented the province’s tourism products and services, highlighting the attractions and experiences Eastern Samar offers to visitors.
Department of Tourism Region VIII Consultant and FBSE Regional Trainer Antonio G. Cinco Jr. discussed Eastern Samar’s local history, culture and traditions, as well as tourist behavior patterns and market profiles.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the provincial government, led by Gov. RV Evardone through his representative, Engr. Joselito B. Mutya, along with officials from the Department of Tourism Region VIII and the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office.
The TOPCOP seminar is part of the PNP’s continuing efforts to equip police personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to provide a safe, secure, and tourist-friendly environment in Eastern Samar. (TAC)
