PRM and DOT Partner to Boost Local Tourism Through Music

In an effort to build closer ties between government and industry sectors, Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) met with the Department of Tourism (DOT) last April 28. The discussion centered on using music to enrich tourism experiences, spotlight Filipino culture, and back the country’s growing creative economy.

The Department of Tourism was represented by Virgilio Maguigad (Director of the Office of Tourism Standards and Regulation), Ma. Teresa Fevidal (Division Chief of the Standards Development Division), Marissa Victoria Claustro (Supervising Tourism Operations Officer), and Denise Alysson Anderson (Tourism Operations Officer II).

Leading the PRM delegation were General Manager Ace Acosta, Licensing Manager Candice Lima-del Rosario, and Marketing Manager Keeshia Mangio. They were also joined by PRM Board Member and PARI President Enzo Valdez, alongside Bernie Refuerzo of SoundsRight.

Shaping the Tourist Experience Through Sound

During the meeting, PRM formally introduced the organization and its role as an IPOPHL-accredited collective management organization (CMO) representing producers and performers of sound recordings in the Philippines. The team shared PRM’s growth and developments over the past years, including its ongoing efforts to optimize royalty distribution systems, expand awareness on neighboring rights, and build stronger partnerships with industries that regularly use music in their day-to-day operations.

The discussion highlighted the important role music plays in shaping tourism experiences across the country and how much music matters to everyday travel. From hotels and restaurants to retail spaces, events, and lifestyle destinations, both parties acknowledged how music contributes to atmosphere, storytelling, and the overall identity of a place — making it a core part of how tourists experience the Philippines.

Key Focus: PRM also shared its vision of helping foster appreciation for Original Pilipino Music (OPM) within tourism-related spaces and encouraging businesses to recognize the value of properly licensed music. This ensures local culture is on display while supporting the artists, performers, and producers behind the tracks.

Industry Insights & Next Steps

Enzo Valdez noted the importance of creating more opportunities for Filipino music to be heard in public spaces. Speaking from the perspective of the recording industry through his role as President of the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI), he explained that closer cooperation between music groups, the tourism sector, and government offices will help bring OPM to a much wider audience.

The Department of Tourism welcomed PRM's initiatives, agreeing that music adds immense value to travel and helps highlight Filipino identity. The meeting opened the door for future projects aimed at educating the public about music rights while celebrating local talent and creativity.

Moving forward, PRM remains dedicated to advocating for Filipino performers and producers, working to build a fair, long-lasting music industry where creators are respected and properly compensated.