Farm tourism, a rapidly growing sustainable tourism sector, offers city dwellers a chance to escape the urban jungle and reconnect with nature. Recognizing this trend, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) recently conducted a Farm Tourism Basic (FT101) with Business Opportunities Training Workshop Course. Held from July 31, 2024, to August 2, 2024, this 3-day event aimed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to establish successful farm tourism ventures.
Safety First: Ace And Associates’ Crucial Role
A key event highlight was the participation on Day 1, the afternoon session of Ace And Associates Risk Management, Inc. (AAA). Led by Mr. Ace Esmeralda, AAA’s president and managing director, the company focused on a critical aspect of farm tourism: safety and security. Mr. Esmeralda, a Certified Protection Professional (CPP), a farm tourism course graduate with extensive expertise in risk management, humbly underscored the importance of ensuring a safe environment for visitors and farm operators. “Inviting visitors onto your property brings many concerns,” he noted, addressing issues such as fencing, parking, biohazards, and food safety.
Mitigating Risks for Sustainable Growth
Mr. Esmeralda’s presentation provided a comprehensive approach to safety and security in farm tourism. He highlighted the importance of:
- Identifying Hazards and Assessing Risks: Thoroughly evaluate potential dangers on the farm, including natural hazards, artificial threats like IT security breaches, and risks associated with animals and visitors.
- Developing Clear Guidelines: Establishing rules and regulations for employees, visitors, and farm residents to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Creating Safety and Security Plans: Develop specific plans for activities such as parking, tours, animal handling, and food service to manage risk effectively.
- Employee Training: Training farm staff to handle emergencies and ensure visitor safety.
- Emergency Preparedness: Implementing a comprehensive emergency response plan to address accidents or unforeseen situations efficiently.
Balancing Risk and Opportunity
Mr. Esmeralda acknowledged the need for a “balancing act” between risk management and creating a welcoming tourist environment. He emphasized that risk assessment and employee involvement are crucial in providing a safe and enjoyable farm tourism experience.
With Ace And Associates’ valuable contribution to the FT101 program, farm tourism in the Philippines is set for responsible growth. By prioritizing safety and security, farm owners can create thriving businesses that offer visitors a unique and enriching experience while ensuring the well-being of their land, animals, families, and staff.
Day 1 of the workshop delved into the fundamental aspects of farm tourism, equipping participants with essential knowledge for launching successful ventures. Attendees explored vital factors such as location, human resource management, and the importance of DOT accreditation, gaining valuable insights through group discussions on their impact on business development.
