The Department of Tourism (DOT) has strengthened local emergency preparedness and improved safety standards in mountain and nature-based tourism areas in Northern Samar through the distribution of start-up safety training kits.

The turnover of equipment was held on Thursday at the Gamay Municipal Hall, attended by DOT officials, local government officials, and local tourism officers in Northern Samar.

Each kit contained essential items such as a drawstring bag, a dri-fit shirt, a bucket hat, and a standard first aid kit.

“These tools are expected to enhance the capability of trained responders to act as frontliners in ensuring tourist safety and providing timely assistance during emergencies,” the DOT regional office said.

Recipients of these kits are graduates of the Mountain Search and Rescue (MOSAR) Training Program organized by the DOT Eastern Visayas regional office.

The beneficiaries included mountaineering enthusiasts, community tour guides, members of Community-Based Tourism Organizations, and local government unit emergency responders from the towns of Gamay, Lapinig, and Palapag.

MOSAR training equips local stakeholders with technical skills in search, rescue, and first aid, particularly in mountainous and high-risk tourism sites.

The initiative, according to DOT, significantly boosts local preparedness while reinforcing visitor safety, which is key to sustaining tourism growth in the area.

With community partners now trained and equipped, DOT expects safer tours, more confident guides, and faster emergency response. (PNA)