Fourth edition of the Fine Arts Film Festival Made in the DR

Santo Domingo.- The fourth edition of the Fine Arts Film Festival Made in the DR is set to captivate film enthusiasts and elevate the Dominican Republic’s cinematic prowess as it graces the screens of the Fine Arts Cinema Café at Novo-Centro.

Commencing on May 2, this latest installment, exclusively dedicated to Dominican cinema, reaffirms the burgeoning growth of the local film industry and the embrace of new narratives and esteemed creations.

At a press briefing hosted at the Altice facilities, executives from Altice Dominicana and Caribbean Cinemas unveiled the details and innovations for this edition. They announced that the festival will run until May 8, showcasing premieres of diverse Dominican productions across three theaters at Fine Arts Cinema Café in Novocentro, Santo Domingo.

Zumaya Cordero, general director of Operations of Caribbean Cinemas and the Festival, expressed gratitude for the participation and emphasized the festival’s contribution to enriching the cinematic landscape. She acknowledged Altice Dominicana’s steadfast support, which has been instrumental in realizing the event.

Soraida Soto, vice president of marketing and communications at Altice Dominicana, commended the organizers for their dedication and wished them success. She reiterated Altice’s commitment to nurturing Dominican talent and fostering cinematic artistry.

As part of Altice’s support, exclusive benefits are extended to its clients, including discounts and special offers on ticket purchases during the festival.

The festival’s opening film, “Coma Profundo,” directed by Roberto A. Salcedo and starring Pepe Sierra, sets the stage for an immersive cinematic experience. The event will culminate with the screening of Héctor Valdez’s drama “Insular.”

The lineup features a diverse array of films spanning various genres, including drama, fiction, and comedy, showcasing the depth and breadth of Dominican storytelling.

A panel of esteemed jurors, comprising film critics and filmmakers, will evaluate the films and bestow awards across categories such as Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Film.

Additionally, the festival will host a series of engaging talks and discussions, providing insights into various aspects of filmmaking. Topics include the importance of storytelling techniques, the future of film criticism in the Dominican Republic, and the challenges of guerrilla documentary filmmaking.

The festival also provides a platform for emerging talents with the inclusion of Dominican Short Films, selected from universities and independent producers across the country.

The Fine Arts Film Festival Made in the DR, presented by Caribbean Cinemas with the official sponsorship of Altice Dominicana, promises to be a celebration of Dominican cinema, made possible by the generous support of sponsors like Banco Caribe and Farmacias GBC.

Ticket sales commence on April 30, available at the Fine Arts box office and online at www.fineartscinefestival.com.

Dominican Foreign Minister to address UN Security Council

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez will once again attend the periodic meeting of the United Nations Security Council, marking his tenth participation. The primary focus of this meeting will be addressing the ongoing crisis in Haiti, with Álvarez reiterating the importance of adhering to the resolutions set forth by the Council. These resolutions pertain to sanctions, arms embargo, and the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Force in Haiti.

Scheduled for Monday, April 22, at 3:00 pm in New York City, the meeting will convene at the headquarters of the United Nations. Minister Álvarez will be accompanied by the Dominican ambassador to the UN, José Blanco, for the session.

It is noteworthy that Minister Roberto Álvarez previously addressed the Security Council in January, emphasizing the urgent need for action to prevent Haiti from descending further into crisis. He underscored the precarious situation facing the nation in the absence of the multinational mission’s deployment.

Joining the discussion in this session will be María Isabel Salvador, the special envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Haiti, and Catherine Russell, the executive director of UNICEF.

Dominican Republic to develop national tourism sustainability strategy with support from the UN

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Tourism has initiated a series of meetings involving public, private, and third-sector entities within the tourism value chain or those influencing the industry’s development. The objective is to craft the National Sustainability Strategy for the tourism sector.

Over two days, working groups received support and guidance from UN-Tourism, a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism. Verónica Pinilla and Víctor Gorga, members of UN-Tourism Technical Cooperation, participated in 12 meetings coordinated by the vice ministries of International Cooperation and Destination Management of MITUR. These sessions provided a platform for representatives from companies, state institutions, the third sector, and international organizations to discuss various topics related to sustainability, including environment, territorial planning, water, energy, solid waste management, and data and statistics.

This initiative, spearheaded by Minister David Collado, marks the first implementation of its kind in the country. Minister Collado has expressed a firm commitment to making the Dominican Republic a leader in sustainable tourism within the region.

Vice Minister Carlos Peguero, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of this initiative as the foundation for a true Sustainability Plan. He highlighted the need for a policy that outlines the steps to be taken regarding sustainability in tourism, ensuring better conditions for its development through effective coordination and execution.

The discussions held during these meetings will shape the design of the National Sustainability Strategy, defining a roadmap for the country. Vice Minister Patricia Mejía underscored the enthusiasm within the MITUR team for the positive outcomes anticipated from these initial actions, which will lay the groundwork for a comprehensive Sustainability Plan for tourism. She stressed the importance of articulation, common vision, legal framework, and responsible management to ensure the Strategy’s longevity.

Alongside MITUR, representatives from the Ministries of Environment and Natural Resources, Economy, Planning and Development (MEPyD), and Culture, as well as various public entities and private organizations, participated in the discussions. These included institutions such as INAPA, INDRHI, CAASD, ONE, Punta Cana-Macao Energy Consortium, and others.

Representatives from tourist destinations such as Pedernales, Puerto Plata, Samaná, La Altagracia, Santo Domingo, Bayahibe, and Miches shared insights on climate change, diversification, tourism development, achievements, and challenges in sustainability.

Furthermore, the meetings saw participation from tour operators, travel agents, financial institutions, academic institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders, all contributing to the dialogue on sustainable tourism development.

The gathering, held at the Pontifical Catholic University of Madre y Maestra (PUCMM), was attended by key figures from MITUR, including Vice Minister Tammy Reynoso and departmental directors, reflecting a collective effort to shape a sustainable future for tourism in the Dominican Republic.

Aid distribution in Samaná and Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata, DR.- Igor Rodríguez Durán, the Administrative Minister of the Presidency, embarked on a journey to the stricken regions of Samaná and Puerto Plata on Wednesday to initiate the distribution of aid to families grappling with the aftermath of heavy rainfall since last Monday.

In Samaná, the Civil Defense reported approximately 225 households affected across Arroyo Seco, El Valle, La Laguna, Las Terrenas, and Santa Bárbara de Samaná. These families are now receiving essential supplies such as food, wood, zinc, and household items to facilitate their recovery process.

“President Luis Abinader has expressed deep concern since the initial reports came in. Consequently, he has tasked us with visiting the affected areas to ensure that every family receives the necessary support from the government promptly. Our aim is swift assistance,” remarked Igor during his visit.

Speaking at a meeting held at the provincial government headquarters in Samaná, Igor emphasized that the relief effort is a multi-stage process. While the immediate focus is on providing humanitarian aid, there are plans underway to rehabilitate damaged homes and restore normalcy to the affected communities. Additionally, the Ministry of Health is overseeing a monitoring initiative to address potential health concerns, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the recovery efforts.

Yadira Henríquez, Director of the Presidency’s Social Assistance Plan, disclosed that relief teams have been operational since Monday night, distributing over 20 thousand food rations across various provinces. Furthermore, more than 15 thousand servings of cooked meals have been provided through mobile kitchens deployed by the Economic Kitchens program.

Major General Juan Manuel Méndez, Director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), urged affected families to remain vigilant and heed advisories from security agencies. He underscored the government’s swift response and highlighted the crucial collaboration from the public during such crises.

In Puerto Plata, municipalities and districts such as Sosúa, Montellano, Imbert, San Felipe de Puerto Plata, Maimón, and Yasica Arriba have been significantly affected. Joining the relief efforts were governors Teodora Mullix Geraldino and Claritza Rochette, alongside mayors Nelson Núñez, Eduardo Esteban Polanco, and Wilfredo Olivence, along with representatives from various community and religious groups.

Delay in Airbnb regulation agreement in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Despite the announcement made last February, the signing of an agreement to regulate short-term rental properties offered through the Airbnb platform has yet to materialize. This delay is attributed to the absence of a tax proposal required to be drafted by the General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII).

Minister of Tourism, David Collado, disclosed that the portion of the agreement within the jurisdiction of his institution is prepared and has been mutually agreed upon with executives from the multinational company and the private sector.

Collado emphasized the importance of regulating Airbnb properties for the sake of safety and ensuring that advertised accommodations are as advertised. He stressed that just as hotels are subject to supervision, Airbnb rentals should also be subject to oversight.

The Minister specified that it was at the behest of the private sector, represented by the National Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), that the signing of the agreement, initially slated for last February, was postponed. This delay was to allow the DGII time to formulate a plan detailing how the multinational company would be taxed for its short-term rental services in the country.

Collado reiterated the commitment to collaborative work, highlighting the consensus reached among stakeholders. Both Mitur and Asonahores, through its president David Llibre, expressed uncertainty regarding the timeline for the completion of the fiscal plan by Internal Taxes.

Llibre indicated that there is a resolution in principle agreed upon with the Ministry of Tourism, awaiting clarity on the government’s fiscal strategy concerning this matter.

Over six million Dominicans embrace domestic tourism

Santo Domingo.- According to Jaqueline Mora, Technical Vice Minister of Tourism, over six million Dominicans partake in domestic tourism, as revealed during the presentation of the findings from the third study on Dominican tourism conducted by Analytica.

Mora emphasized the significant value local tourists bring to the tourism sector, contributing approximately US$1,547 million. This form of tourism played a pivotal role in the sector’s recovery amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The economic study, titled “Results of Dominican Tourism,” delves into key indicators spanning from 2016 to 2022. Notably, it highlights that in 2022, the hotel industry generated a remarkable added value of US$22.19 billion, with a multiplier effect of 2.88 across the broader economy in terms of GDP. “This accounts for 19% of GDP, meaning that for every peso directly generated, the tourism industry indirectly generates two pesos,” stated Mora.

She further elaborated, “This broader category encompasses activity stemming from purchases in other economic sectors and the spending of tourism sector employees.” Mora added, “59% of this revenue stemmed from hotels, with the remaining 41% attributed to other segments of the sector.”

As a founding partner of Analytica, Mora highlighted trends in hotel investments, noting that local capital has seen increased participation, reaching 31% in 2022 compared to 69% from foreign investment. Of the local hotel investments, 23.9% is financed through loans provided by Dominican banks, with Banco Popular historically leading this financing avenue.

Frank Rainieri’s call for specialized education to improve tourism

Frank Rainieri, the visionary behind the Puntacana Group, emphasized the imperative need for the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector to evolve hand in hand with a more specialized workforce tailored to meet the rigorous standards of the global market.

“In the present landscape, where top-tier hotels, including all-inclusive resorts, are on the rise, a mere smile is no longer sufficient. That smile must be accompanied by impeccable service,” Rainieri asserted.

He advocated for a strategic shift in the educational paradigm, suggesting a transformation of existing universities into polytechnic institutions. These revamped centers would offer two-year programs aimed at equipping individuals with the technical skills necessary for the tourism industry.

Rainieri underscored the importance of nurturing a pool of technicians specialized in hospitality, advocating for a reduction in the number of graduates in hotel administration, aligning with the findings of Mitur’s March tourism activity report.

Recognizing the pivotal role of education in uplifting the tourism sector, Rainieri disclosed collaborative initiatives between the Puntacana Group, Loyola Polytechnic, and the Professional Technical Training Institute (Infotep) aimed at enhancing the specialized knowledge of future industry personnel.

Drawing upon the success story of Punta Cana’s development in La Altagracia province, Rainieri highlighted the transformative power of tourism in uplifting human capital. He reminisced about how individuals, once rural laborers with minimal education, seized the opportunity presented by tourism, trading machetes for languages and embracing service-oriented careers.

Spanish business delegation explores investment opportunities in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the Kingdom of Spain has announced the imminent arrival of a delegation of Spanish businessmen who will be exploring investment opportunities in the Caribbean nation. Comprising representatives from 12 companies and 2 institutions, the trade mission will be in the Dominican Republic from April 17 to 26, aiming to forge commercial relationships and pinpoint investment prospects.

The delegation will include executives from prominent companies such as Soltec Ingenieros SL, Aquética Ingeniería SL, Sabico Seguridad SA, Welgood Solutions Technologies, SL, and Sielvigo SL, all affiliated with the Cluster Association of Engineering, Consulting, and Technological Services Companies of Galicia (AGEINCO). Additionally, they will be accompanied by the Director of Internationalization of the Galician Institute for Economic Promotion (IGAPE).

Furthermore, six Galician companies will express their interest in investing in the development of real estate tourism in the Punta Cana region. Among the participants is Power Glen SL, associated with the Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations CEOE-CEPYME Guadalajara. This company will leverage its presence in the Dominican Republic to take part in the Dominican Republic Logistic Summit 2024, focused on exploring the opportunities presented by the country as the primary Logistics Hub in the region and establishing high-value strategic alliances.

The coordination of this trade mission stemmed from Ambassador Juan Bolívar Díaz’s visit to the Autonomous Community of Galicia in November 2023. During this visit, the ambassador conducted meetings with various unions and business associations, accompanied by the Head of the Commercial Section of the Embassy, Mr. José Manuel Vargas D’Oleo. It is anticipated that this gathering in the Dominican Republic will further fortify commercial ties between the two countries.

Mitur emphasizes essential role of territorial planning

Santo Domingo..- Minister of Tourism David Collado emphasized the critical importance of territorial planning to prevent uncontrolled expansion across the national landscape, citing the cautionary tale of Bávaro and Punta Cana.

“It’s imperative that we learn from the unchecked growth experienced in Bávaro and Punta Cana, ensuring that emerging tourist destinations like Miches avoid similar pitfalls,” Collado asserted. He underscored the necessity of implementing local and corrective measures in areas where rapid and disproportionate development has occurred.

In pursuit of this goal, Collado convened a meeting with the Dominican Federation of Municipalities (Fedomu) to establish an agreement on comprehensive territorial planning initiatives spanning the entire country.

Addressing the state of tourism in the Dominican Republic, the minister highlighted the government’s proactive approach in managing various challenges through robust international promotion efforts, underscoring the stability and tranquility prevalent across the nation’s tourist hotspots.

“Our tourism sector continues to show resilience and growth, buoyed by ongoing promotional efforts. For instance, next week, we are hosting the prestigious PGA Tour in Punta Cana, with a viewership exceeding 10.7 million Americans,” Collado stated. He emphasized that such high-profile events serve as testament to the nation’s stability, reinforcing confidence in its tourism offerings.

“Furthermore, tomorrow, we’ll present our quarterly tourism statistics during a meeting with Asonahores in Punta Cana. Preliminary indicators point towards sustained growth and stability,” Collado added.

Collado also provided an update on the Ministry of Tourism’s ongoing initiative to reclaim public spaces and beaches nationwide, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the country’s natural assets for both residents and visitors alike.

Heavy rainfall triggers flooding in Samaná

Samaná, DR.- The Civil Defense issued a report this Monday indicating that the rivers of Las Terrenas and the Caño Seco ravine in Samaná have overflowed due to heavy rainfall caused by a trough.

As of the preliminary report released by the organization at 10:00 p.m., the extent of the impact on people and homes remains unknown.

Various State agencies are dispatching brigades to the affected area to provide assistance.

The Emergency Operations Center (COE) announced on Monday afternoon that 18 provinces are under alert due to the effects of the trough across several regions including the northeast, southeast, north, Central mountain range, and the border area.

Among these provinces, Greater Santo Domingo is under a yellow alert, while La Vega, Monseñor Nouel, Duarte, San Cristóbal, Espaillat, Santiago, La Altagracia, La Romana, El Seibo, Hermanas Mirabal, María Trinidad Sánchez, Puerto Plata, Hato Mayor, San Pedro de Macorís, Samaná, Sánchez Ramírez, and Monte Plata are also under alert.

Dominican Republic sees 3.2 million visitors in 1st quarter

Punta Cana, DR.- Tourism Minister David Collado announced on Tuesday that the Dominican Republic continues to smash visitor arrival records. In the first three months of the year alone, the country welcomed a staggering 3.2 million visitors.

That impressive number includes 1.1 million visitors in March, a 16% increase compared to the same month last year. Collado also revealed a breakdown of arrivals, with 836,502 tourists arriving by air and 267,768 by sea.

“We continue to reach spectacular figures: 1,104,270 visitors last month, which gives us the magic number of 3,226,484 in the first three months of this year, something never seen before in the history of Dominican tourism,” Minister Collado said when presenting the sector’s performance during an activity in Punta Cana, where the main players in the industry participated.

The official said that the arrival of 836,502 tourists by air last month is only comparable to the Christmas season.

He expressed that this figure reflects a growth of 13% compared to March of last year, 35% compared to 2022 and 24% compared to 2019.

Collado pointed out that this historic growth is also reflected in the cruise ship area, with the arrival of 267,768 visitors by sea in March alone, rising to 1,104,270 cruise passengers in the January-March 2024 period.

He explained that the countries that contributed the most tourists in March and the first quarter of this year were the United States with 49%, Canada with 23%, Colombia and Argentina with 3%.

The airports that received the most tourists were Punta Cana with 61%, Las Américas 21%, Cibao 10%, Puerto Plata 7% and La Romana with 1%.

Arajet: over 250,000 passengers flown in first quarter of 2024

Santo Domingo.- In March, Arajet, the Caribbean’s budget airline, transported over 64,000 passengers, excluding transit passengers, according to the report on Dominican airline traffic released by the Civil Aviation Board of the Dominican Republic.

With these figures, Arajet reinforces its position as the leading airline in the Dominican market, having transported over 250,000 passengers, including transit passengers, in the first quarter of 2024.

Arajet emphasized, in a statement to the media, that the JAC report underscores its status as the national airline with the highest air activity, accounting for 79% of operations in the Dominican Republic. This achievement is attributed to its extensive network linking the American continent with 23 routes across 16 countries.

Victor Pacheco Méndez, CEO & Founder of Arajet, stressed that achieving these numbers reflects the airline’s commitment to providing quality service with international standards, ensuring passengers a memorable travel experience.

“We extend our gratitude to the passengers who have chosen Arajet as their preferred airline for connecting with other cities across the continent aboard our modern and comfortable aircraft,” said Pacheco Méndez. He further noted that when transit passengers are included, the total for March surpassed 80,000 passengers, marking the second-best month in the airline’s history, surpassed only by January 2024.

Additionally, Arajet has solidified its position as the second airline with the highest passenger traffic at Las Américas International Airport, surpassing major traditional airlines.

According to the JAC report, SkyHigh Aviation ranked as the second busiest Dominican airline, transporting 11,624 passengers, while Air Century came in third with 3,903 passengers.

6th edition of the National Awards for Dominican Gastronomy

Santo Domingo.- On April 16, the National Awards for Dominican Gastronomy will take center stage as the AGH (National Association of Gastronomy and Hospitality) hosts the prestigious event. Invitations have been extended to nominees, media representatives, and associates of the industry.

These awards, known as PNGD, represent the highest accolades within the gastronomic and hospitality sector, conferred by the AGH. Renowned professionals, business leaders, and influential figures from both the social and gastronomic realms are expected to grace the ceremony. Endorsed by key organizations and segments within the Dominican Gastronomic Industry, the awards reflect excellence and innovation in culinary endeavors.

The selection process spanned three months, involving digital nominations from the general public, industry professionals, and companies. With an active participation exceeding fifteen thousand votes, the trends were subsequently reviewed and voted upon by a committee comprising over 50 recognized experts from the country’s gastronomic sphere.

The awards encompass four primary categories, each celebrating distinct aspects of gastronomic achievement:

1. Gastronomic Excellence Award: Recognizing excellence in gastronomic offerings and operations.

2. Gastronomic Communication Award: Honoring media outlets distinguished for their gastronomic content across various platforms.

3. Award for Initiative in Gastronomy: Acknowledging individuals, companies, or institutions driving innovation and positive impact within the gastronomic sector.

4. Lifetime Achievement Award: Commending the significant contributions and careers of individuals and institutions in the gastronomy and food and beverage industry.

Additionally, there are several subcategories encompassing diverse facets of the culinary landscape, including restaurants, hotels, chefs, bartenders, and specialized services.

Established in 2014, the PNGD aims to fortify the gastronomic sector by amplifying the voices of enthusiasts, professionals, and industry players. Hosted by Host 360 Marketing Group and sponsored by Propagas, NTD Ingredientes, Hotel Catalonia, and Carballo, with the collaboration of El Catador, Barceló, Alorens Foods, and Arla Foods, the event promises to showcase excellence and innovation in Dominican gastronomy.

For a comprehensive list of nominees and winners, visit the AGH website at www.aghrd.com.

Expo Construcción Puerto Plata fosters business opportunities

Puerto Plata.- The fourth edition of the Expo Construcción Puerto Plata kicked off on Friday at the Blue Jack Tar Convention Center in Playa Dorada. Professionals and over fifty brands from the construction sector across the Dominican Republic will gather there until Sunday.

Dedicated to the distinguished career of engineer Rafael (Kuky) Silverio, the event aims to showcase industry trends, promote knowledge sharing, and foster business opportunities. It also seeks to enrich the participant experience by presenting the current landscape of the construction sector, which continues to gain prominence within the Dominican economy.

Aneury Pilar, the Expo president, expressed his gratitude to all the brands supporting the initiative to promote Dominican productive dynamism. He also presented several awards, including one to the Minister of Public Works, Deligne Ascención Burgos, Andrés Marranzini (director of the Punta Bergantín project), Isely Almanzar (real estate advisor and businesswoman), and Daniel Fernández Delgado (director of Green One, a socio-commercial project launched during the ceremony).

The event drew the participation of prominent figures, including provincial governor Claritza Rochtte de Senior, Senator Ginette Bournigal, and Mileyka Brugal, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Free Zone of Puerto Plata. These authorities and influential personalities from both the public and private sectors acknowledged the importance of continuing to support the development of the North region through specialized events like Expo Construcción Puerto Plata.

On Saturday and Sunday, starting at 10:00 AM, the Expo will offer master classes featuring specialized training and workshops provided by participating brands and institutions.

The fourth edition of Expo Construcción Puerto Plata enjoys the support of numerous companies, including Autozama, Reidco Equipos Pesados, IMCA CAT, Teselta RD, Grupo Bonanza RD, Equimax RD, PanelDom, Tecnimetro, Lanco Dominicana, Plásticos Comerciales, Grupo KSI, Opal Project, Colchones del Yaque, Constructora Dualma, Cype Dominicana, Grupo Grabo Estilo, Constructora MAR, Ministry of Public Works and Communications, Green One, Constructora Incsa, APROCOVICI, ASODAGRIM, CODIA, AEI Zona Norte, and Kinoxx.

Tourism leads in attracting foreign direct investment in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo—Tourism and energy activities represent the main sources of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the Dominican Republic. FDI reached US$4.39 billion in 2023, surpassing Costa Rica’s leadership in 2020, 2021, and 2023.

Statistical data from the Export and Investment Center of the Dominican Republic (ProDominicana) show a growth in foreign investments in the tourism sector between 2022 and 2023, going from US$1,050 million to US$1,182.1 million.

The energy sector increased significantly from US$749 million to US$1,071.1 million between 2022 and 2023.

The growing sectors are commerce, real estate, free trade zones, mining, and finance.

The most significant foreign investments in the country come from the United States, followed by Spain, Mexico, and Canada.

The Foreign Investment Law 16-95 is applied in the country. The total amount of FDI reached by the government in 2023 was US$4,390.2 million, equivalent to a growth of 7.11 % in 2022.

Costa Rica registered an amount of US$3,921 million of foreign investment, for a growth of 131 % concerning the US$3,000 million obtained in 2022, according to Listín Diario.

INFOTEP certifies 35 to fuel Pedernales’ tourism boom

Pedernales, DR.- The National Institute of Technical and Vocational Training (INFOTEP) and the Genera ITM Foundation joined forces to certify 35 participants in six training programs designed to equip them for the burgeoning tourism sector in Pedernales.

These newly certified professionals completed courses in areas like “5S Techniques for Continuous Improvement,” “Development of Essential Skills for Customer Service,” and “Hygiene, Handling, and Food Safety,” ensuring they possess the skills necessary to meet the rising demand for qualified labor in the province.

Elvis Céspedes, deputy head of INFOTEP’s Southern Regional Directorate, emphasized that these training initiatives directly support President Luis Abinader’s vision for the Enriquillo region, encompassing the provinces of Barahona, Pedernales, Bahoruco, and Independencia.

The collaboration with Genera ITM specifically aims to prepare the local workforce for the job opportunities emerging from the development of Cabo Rojo and the overall growth of Pedernales’ tourism sector. Lludy Terrero, director of the Genera Foundation, expressed confidence that these graduates possess the necessary qualifications to be competitive in the local job market, including potential employment with the Port Cabo Rojo project.

INFOTEP’s commitment to Pedernales extends beyond this recent certification. Between 2021 and 2023, the institute has delivered over 350 training programs, impacting more than 6,480 participants and providing over 38,454 hours of instruction. The areas of greatest focus have included Hospitality and Tourism, Administration, Food Preparation, and various technical skills.

Furthermore, a comprehensive training program was developed in 2023 in partnership with ITM, the company leading the construction of Cabo Rojo Port. This program specifically targeted individuals from local communities, equipping them for various port-related roles and complementing the existing workforce. Training modules included Bar and Restaurant Management, Food and Beverage Preparation, and essential safety certifications.

The Genera ITM Foundation, a non-profit organization, plays a crucial role in these initiatives. Their mission centers on environmental and cultural preservation, alongside promoting economic development and fostering decent employment opportunities within the communities they serve. Their strategic programs prioritize human rights with a cultural focus, while also encouraging the creation of small and medium-sized businesses.

With a skilled and prepared local workforce, Pedernales positions itself to thrive within the Dominican Republic’s growing tourism sector.

How does the Dominican Republic find National Coffee Day?

Santo Domingo — The director of the Dominican Coffee Institute (INDOCAFE), Leonidas Batista, reported that 49.3 million coffee plants have been planted in this administration, 18.43% more than in the 2016-20 period, when 40.7 million plants of that crop were planted.

He said that this increase in coffee plantations, 9.3 million plants, was supported by the loans granted by the Agricultural Bank to coffee growers at zero rates and 6% and 8%, just in time to plant, fertilize, and fumigate.

Leonidas Batista
That allowed 168,958 tareas to be planted in this government administration, up from 129,678 tareas in the 2016-20 administration, an increase of 23.25%, Batista indicated when interviewed on National Coffee Day.

He noted that during this period, 1,382,583.55 quintals of coffee were produced, an increase of 42.64% compared to 2016-20 when production was 791,782 quintals.

The official stated that during the last government, 120,061.97 quintals of coffee were exported, and during this administration, 281,891.89 quintals have been exported, an increase of 54.22%.

He added that in terms of foreign exchange income from grain exports, US$31,106,817.98 entered the country in the previous period, while US$65,413,849.68 entered the country in this administration.

Batista indicated that, in support of coffee production and commercialization, 2,051 loans were granted in the September 2020-23 period for a total of RD$1,337,844,448, while in the previous period, 1,146 loans were given for RD$817,318,609, with an interest rate of over 12%.

The head of the department pointed out that other relevant social achievements are the repair of 3,585 km of roads and bridle paths, the support of the children of coffee-growing families with 286 scholarships in different areas of knowledge, 108 solidarity pensions, and 5,754 families, including in Senasa Insurance.

He said that to strengthen the coffee value chain, President Luis Abinader has developed activities aimed at articulating, coordinating, and implementing effective policies and actions to increase production, generate wealth, and improve the quality of life of coffee-growing communities.

Leonidas Batista said that coffee production is characterized by being mostly in the hands of small producers. It constitutes the main economic activity in the mountain zone, which is distributed in 26 provinces and 68 municipalities of the country’s main mountain ranges.

PUCMM launches degree in Gastronomy and Culinary Arts

Santo Domingo.- In an effort to enhance specialized academic training in the development of tourism within the country, the School of Tourism and Gastronomy at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra launched the degree program in Gastronomy and Culinary Arts this Thursday, marking the first of its kind in the country.

Directors of the School of Tourism in Santo Domingo and Santiago, Ina Percival and Kenia Rodríguez, respectively, presented the details of this innovative degree program, which has already enrolled approximately 60 students across both campuses.

The program addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of gastronomy and emphasizes the preservation, promotion, and enhancement of local culinary heritage, which plays a crucial role in the Dominican tourism industry. Available for both in-person learning at the Santo Domingo and Santiago campuses, the degree program spans four years and comprises 188 credits.

Percival highlighted that the curriculum is designed to provide students with theoretical and practical training, covering fundamental cooking techniques and exploring the history and evolution of gastronomy, as well as its societal impact. Unlike technical courses that focus on middle management, this degree aims to cultivate leaders capable of planning, organizing, supervising, and directing gastronomic operations at all levels.

“Gastronomy not only nourishes the body but also the soul, forming an integral part of the tourist experience that travelers seek when exploring a destination,” Percival remarked. “As an academic institution, we bear the responsibility of elevating our gastronomy and preserving our native dishes, which are intrinsic to our identity and culture.”

Meanwhile, Kenia Rodríguez emphasized that the degree program will foster further research and innovation in the field of gastronomy.

The curriculum encompasses specialized courses in both national and international cuisine, restaurant management, certifications, oenology, nutrition, and other relevant areas.

“The University’s aim is to internationalize local gastronomy by offering academic programs aligned with global trends,” Rodríguez stated.

To showcase the practical aspect of the program, university students organized a gastronomic experience featuring typical Dominican dishes. The event took place in one of the state-of-the-art kitchen laboratories available to the School of Tourism and Gastronomy.

Sur Futuro and Ministry of Tourism welcoming cruise passengers to Pedernales

Santo Domingo.- The Sur Futuro Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and local organizations in Pedernales, played a key role in preparations to ensure exceptional hospitality for visitors during the arrival of the second cruise at the port of Cabo Rojo.

This endeavor holds immense significance for Sur Futuro as it represents an opportunity to uplift the living standards of a region that has long endured poverty and neglect. The arrival of Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship, carrying 2,666 visitors and 874 crew members, illuminated prospects of progress and prosperity for Pedernales and the Enriquillo region.

Tourists were treated to an array of eco-friendly and artisanal destinations, promoting sustainable tourism in the area. Over 250 individuals, including tour guides, musical bands, folkloric ensembles, baton twirlers, and carnival performers, actively participated in activities organized by MITUR and Sur Futuro. These events offered visitors insights into the cultural and environmental richness of Pedernales, Juancho, La Colonia, Barahona, Bahoruco, and Cabral.

Sur Futuro also undertook the responsibility of enhancing facilities at the Pedernales Sociocultural Club. This included restroom renovations, door and lock repairs, painting, installation of new water connections, and placement of trash bins along Duarte Avenue. Additionally, municipal bathrooms along the boardwalk were cleaned and refurbished, thereby enhancing local infrastructure for the benefit of both the community and tourists.

Moving forward, Sur Futuro, in collaboration with various stakeholders such as the Ministry of Tourism, the Directorate of Public-Private Alliances, the ITM Foundation, and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Mypimes, will continue to focus on educational and training programs in tourist culture for the local community. Moreover, efforts will be made towards watershed restoration to ensure sustainable water sources, aligning with the region’s development goals.

These programs will engage artists, folklorists, schools, artisans, and tourist guides, imparting valuable life skills and promoting climate change adaptation. Ultimately, the aim is to enrich the cultural and tourist offerings of the region, fostering its growth and resilience.

Dominican Republic enhances air connectivity with France

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader and Minister of Tourism David Collado convened with Cristine Ourmieres, CEO of Air Caraïbes, reaffirming the imminent launch of a direct flight from Paris to Santo Domingo. Additionally, they coordinated the continuation of the seven weekly flights to the tourist hotspot of Punta Cana, aiming to fortify the country’s tourism sector. The meeting, hosted at the National Palace, also saw the participation of Paola Rainieri, Chief Marketing Officer of the Puntacana Group, to ensure the continuity of the aforementioned flight operations through the Punta Cana airport.

Collado shared the developments on social media, stating, “Today, alongside Air Caraïbes, with whom we are bolstering our tourism efforts in the French market, we engaged in productive discussions with its leadership team, committed to exploring new avenues to enhance our air connectivity with France.” He reiterated the significance of strengthening air connectivity with France in boosting tourism in the Dominican Republic.