Drivers train to be tour guides in Dumaguete

The tricycles drivers of the City of Gentle People or Dumaguete City are now learning to be sociable ambassadors for the cities people both locals and tourists. This training of theirs includes the extreme practice of the English skills and tour guiding skills.

Future “tourist certified drivers”

Since Dumaguete City is an increasing tourist destination all over the world, the need of more awareness of tourism and hospitable conversations are needed for the rise of the city’s reputation. With over 50 drivers a day who come in contact with both local and tourist adventurers, a total of 50% of the tour is done by drivers especially in going to the tourist destination.

Skills required?

According to the City Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr. the training will prepare the tricycle drivers with the decent skills needed for simple tour guiding since they are the first contact of tourist in order to go to their destinations.

A driver must learn to be aware of the tourist’s different characteristics and history backgrounds. They must practice the confidentiality of each conversation and keeping the tourists both interested and entertained. They must also be knowledgeable of the different land marks and related matters of the destinations around Dumaguete City.

This project was brought up to the Dumaguete City Mayor, Manuel Sagarbarria and was approved not only in Dumaguete City but also in neighboring municipalities like Tanjay, Bais, Dauin and Manjuyod.

After the training, the City Mayor also suggested the need of a vest with markings of “tourist certified drivers” in order for identification purposes and for the safety of the tourists.