Mt. Isarog tour guide sacked over alleged harassment of hiker

The local government unit of Naga City in Camarines Sur has condemned an incident at the Mt. Isarog National Park involving a tour guide, who allegedly entered the tent of a hiker without permission and harassing them.

In a statement on Facebook on Friday, Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo slammed the incident, calling it reprehensible and unacceptable.

“This conduct does not reflect the standards of safety, professionalism, and respect required by the City Government and expected of all persons serving visitors to Mt. Isarog Natural Park,” Robredo said.

She also said that the tour guide in question was a newly hired job order personnel from the Public Safety Office (PSO) who has only been working for one month.

The tour guide has admitted to misconduct, and the local government has withdrawn all his assignments.

The local government is in the process of terminating his contract, Robredo added.

“The City has permanently barred the individual from participating in any City-sponsored, City-endorsed, or City-accredited tour or hiking activity. The City is likewise formally requesting the Mt. Isarog Natural Park Protected Area Management Board and the [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] to impose the appropriate access and accreditation restrictions within the protected area,” Robredo said.

A task force, composed of relevant local offices, has been formed to probe the incident. The Gender and Development Office was tasked to reach out to the victim to extend assistance.

Robredo said that in light of the incident, the local government is enacting a stricter enforcement of the alcohol ban in prohibited areas, mandatory refresher training course, gender sensitivity and ethics training for tour guides.

“The City Government of Naga remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity, and well-being of everyone who visits Mt. Isarog Natural Park. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of accountability and ensure that our natural parks remain safe, secure, and welcoming spaces for residents and visitors alike,” she said. — BAP, GMA News