DOT-7 launches ‘Turista iWas Scam’ drive to combat online booking scams

Local

THE Department of Tourism-Central Visayas (DOT-7) has rolled out its “Turista iWas Scam” campaign in Cebu and Bohol, aiming to address the growing number of online booking scams affecting travelers.

Data from DOT-7 showed 198 complaints as of March 17, 2026. The complaints involved 26 accredited tourism establishments with total losses exceeding ₱1 million.

Marlon Barrientos, the agency’s officer-in-charge division chief, said fraudsters have been impersonating legitimate hotels and resorts by duplicating official social media accounts and using stolen images and branding materials.

Unsuspecting tourists are often instructed to send advance payments through personal bank accounts or e-wallet platforms. Some fake accounts appear convincing due to large followings and frequent activity.

Groups such as the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. and the One Island Tourism Association (OITA) have raised concerns, particularly in popular destinations like Bantayan Island.

OITA president Nelson Yuvallos said incidents have been monitored since September 2025, noting the difficulty of identifying suspects and preventing them from creating new fraudulent pages.

The campaign also includes the formation of a joint task force with the Police Regional Office-7 and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center to improve enforcement and streamline reporting.

Authorities are advising tourists to transact only with verified accounts, double-check booking details, and be cautious of warning signs such as newly created pages and urgent payment demands.

DOT-7 regional officer-in-charge Gelena Asis-Dimpas said efforts are underway to support legislation that would penalize online booking scams.

“We send a clear and unified message. We are vigilant. We are coordinated. We will not allow scams to undermine the confidence and progress of the tourism industry,” she said.

Reports may be filed through hotline 1326 or via email at report@cicc.gov.ph.

Tourism stakeholders are likewise encouraged to enhance their digital security and actively monitor for impersonation online.(CMM)