DOT to public: Heed LGU suspension of tourism-related activities at Mt. Pinatubo

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Sunday urged tourists to adhere to the local government's suspension of travel and tourism-related activities at Mt. Pinatubo in Botolan, Zambales.

Executive Order No. 05 s. 2025 states that the “Suspension of All Tourism-related Activities, Programs, and Projects at Mt. Pinatubo until Further Notice” took effect on May 2, 2025.

“The DOT acknowledges the significant role that Mt. Pinatubo plays in the local tourism industry and fully supports the actions taken by the Botolan LGU under Mayor Jun Omar C. Ebdane,” the department said in a social media post.

“Likewise, the Department puts utmost consideration on the concerns raised by the five Ayta clans from Capas, Tarlac, during a recent consultative session organized by the DOT Central Luzon Office and various stakeholders,” it added.

In late April, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) reported that the Aeta community members blocked access to the Mt. Pinatubo crater to express their concerns about fair compensation and recognition of their ancestral domain.

During the event, authorities took some of the individuals into custody but released them on the same day without filing any charges.

“We are seeking explanation from the law enforcement authorities on the propriety of taking into custody of the Indigenous Peoples who are peacefully airing their grievances within the four corners of their ancestral domain,” NCIP said in a Facebook post.

“The actions of the Aeta community underscore the need for meaningful dialogue on ancestral land rights and equitable tourism practices,” NCIP added, noting that it has been coordinating with the Indigenous group and concerned local government units and stakeholders since October 2024.

For inquiries and assistance, the public is encouraged to reach out to the DOT through its hotline (151-TOUR  or 151-8687), mobile (0954-253-3215), email (touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph),  webchat (beta.tourism.gov.ph), or its official Facebook page. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News