Manila tour guides brush up on diplomatic protocol for ASEAN VIPs
Twenty-five tour guides in Metro Manila received training in diplomatic and government protocol as the Philippines prepares to host regional leaders and foreign delegations for the 49th ASEAN Summit on November 10–12.
The Philippines is the official ASEAN Chair for 2026, leading the regional bloc under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.” The country earlier hosted the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu on May 6–8, while the 49th ASEAN Summit is scheduled to be held in Metro Manila in November.
As part of preparations, the Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of Protocol (DFA-OP) conducted a Basic Diplomatic and Government Protocol session for 25 tour guides on July 29 at the Department of Tourism-National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) office in Robinsons Summit Center in Makati.
DOT-NCR requested the training in anticipation of activities surrounding the November summit, when accredited tour guides in the capital region are expected to assist visiting delegations and dignitaries.
The training covered the basic principles of protocol, order of precedence, flag protocol, and social graces and etiquette.
Participants also applied their lessons through simulated scenarios, which they presented at the end of the session.
The session forms part of DOT-NCR’s accreditation program, which requires applicants to complete a 30-day Regional Tour Guiding Seminar that includes protocol training.
The DFA-OP team was led by Director Maria Angelica C. Genotiv and assisted by Nova L. De Lara.
The training concluded with a formal dinner hosted by DOT-NCR, allowing participants to put into practice the protocol, etiquette and social graces discussed during the session.
The Philippines assumed the ASEAN chairship in 2026, placing the country at the center of the regional grouping’s meetings and initiatives throughout the year.
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