Thailand it seems is having quite a resurgence in the Hospitality and Tourism sector better than its neighbors. Where the Philippines struggle to get back on its feet, Thailand has a surge of activity in Tourism that has left them in need of hotel workers to fill the gap.

As a result, Thailand is working with the Department of Tourism (DoT) in the Philippines knowing that Filipino hotel workers has the skill and knowledge needed.

In a joint statement last Aug. 18, the DoT said Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina G. Frasco and Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn reached an agreement on the matter.

Clearly the English language proficiency among Filipino hotel workers was an advantage and consequently highlighted by Mr. Phiphat as he said that “There is preference towards professionals from the Philippines due to the Filipinos’ impressive command of the English language — a requirement in accommodating Thailand’s increasing foreign tourists and guests”.

According to him the shortage is equivalent to 60% in hotel staff up to middle manager positions.

The DOT and the Department of Labor and Employment is working towards holding a job fair between Sept. 22 and 24. This should be an opportunity for hotel workers to gain employment as well as expand their horizon in the industry.

There is a lot to learn how Thailand recovers better than the Philippines in terms of marketing, branding and packaging itself towards international travelers and the continued tourism cooperation will be beneficial for both countries.