标签： Dominican Republic

In Santo Domingo, a heated legislative debate is unfolding over the future of mandatory restaurant gratuities in the Dominican Republic. While the Senate is deliberating on extending the compulsory 10% tip to takeout and delivery orders, members of the Chamber of Deputies are revisiting a decade-old proposal to abolish the legal tip requirement altogether. The original initiative, introduced in 2011 by former PLD deputy Nelson Guillén, argued that customers face triple taxation: a 16% VAT, the mandatory 10% tip, and additional voluntary payments to staff. Although the bill failed to pass at the time, it has resurfaced amid discussions on digital food delivery platforms. Gustavo Sánchez, PLD spokesperson in the Chamber of Deputies, revealed that legislators are reviewing an updated version of the bill. The proposal aims to eliminate mandatory tips while ensuring fair compensation for employees. Sánchez pointed out that current labor laws, under Article 229 of the Labor Code, mandate employers to distribute tips equally among staff weekly. However, in practice, this system often leads to unequal distribution, raising concerns about whether consumers should bear the responsibility of subsidizing low wages. The debate coincides with the Senate’s consideration of an amendment, supported by Asonahores, to include legal tips for services on digital platforms. Critics argue that this extension would further burden middle-class consumers, who already grapple with multiple taxes and payments. Sánchez also noted that restaurants often benefit twice—by collecting mandatory tips and receiving voluntary gratuities from dine-in customers—highlighting the complexity of the issue.

The Eco-Bahia Foundation, an initiative by Grupo Piñero, has been recognized at the National Tourism Award for its significant efforts in promoting sustainable development, environmental conservation, and education within the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry. The award acknowledges organizations that drive innovation, excellence, and responsible practices in tourism. Álex Matás, the Foundation’s director in the country, accepted the accolade during a ceremony attended by prominent political and business leaders, entrepreneurs, and tourism representatives. Matás emphasized the Foundation’s dedication to a tourism model that harmonizes enjoyment of nature with its protection, stating, ‘Sustainability is essential for safeguarding our ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.’ Since launching operations in the Dominican Republic in 2023, leveraging over 25 years of experience in other regions, the Eco-Bahia Foundation has implemented a responsible tourism framework. This model integrates conservation, ecological restoration, and environmental education. Notable achievements include the protection of more than 1,700 sea turtle hatchlings, environmental awareness programs reaching thousands of children, youth, and visitors, and tourism experiences that actively involve travelers in conservation efforts. Additionally, the Foundation has spearheaded ecosystem restoration projects and forged strategic partnerships with national institutions, creating a synergy between tourism and sustainability.

Verón-Punta Cana has initiated a comprehensive effort to address its persistent traffic congestion issues. Pascual Cruz Méndez, Director of the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transportation (Digesett), led a detailed diagnostic tour in the municipal district to identify solutions. Accompanied by Mayor Ramón Antonio Ramírez, Intrant Regional Director Félix de la Rosa, Igor Souza of Intraf, Ernesto Veloz, President of Asoleste, and Alejandro Piñeyro, Deputy Director of Planning for Digesett, the team utilized drone technology to assess critical congestion points. The visit aimed to define coordinated actions involving municipal authorities, the private sector, and national mobility agencies to enhance traffic flow and road safety. The initiative underscores the urgency of implementing immediate and sustainable solutions in this bustling tourist hub. Following the tour, Cruz Méndez met with Frank Rainieri and Frank Elías Rainieri, President and CEO of the Punta Cana Group, to discuss mobility and road safety strategies. The Rainieris commended the proactive approach and stressed the need for improved road safety awareness and infrastructure. In recognition of their contributions, Digesett awarded the Rainieri family its official pin, highlighting their commitment to regional traffic safety.

The Dominican Republic is grappling with significant challenges in reducing maternal mortality, curbing teenage pregnancy, and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. These issues are critical to the nation’s well-being and its ability to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. During a recent address at the Corripio Communications Group’s Weekly Luncheon, Julia del Carmen Sánchez, the UN Resident Coordinator in the Dominican Republic, revealed that while 37.3% of the SDGs have been achieved, 40% show limited progress, and 22.7% have regressed. Sánchez emphasized the country’s dedication to reducing infant and neonatal mortality, areas where notable advancements have been made, bringing the nation closer to its 2030 targets. However, persistent setbacks include high rates of road fatalities, rising obesity levels, declining secondary school completion rates, and threats to labor rights and access to clean drinking water. Indicators in education, health, and gender equality have also remained stagnant. On a positive note, neonatal mortality has improved significantly, with the current rate at 15 deaths per 1,000 live births, nearing the target of 13. In celebration of the UN’s 80th anniversary, Sánchez announced a commemorative event on October 17 in the National District to honor the organization’s contributions to the country and recognize the Dominican Republic’s global impact, such as its role in establishing the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, inspired by the legacy of the Mirabal sisters.