Skål Club of Guam launches safe and responsible tourism initiative

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

The Skål Club of Guam has launched a new Safe & Responsible Tourism Initiative, a coordinated effort to raise awareness and help prevent human trafficking across tourism-related sectors.

Although tourism arrivals have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, Skål Guam believes now is the critical moment for collective action, the group said.

Kevin Rautenbach, Skål International’s Asian regional vice president, introduced the initiative on Wednesday during the Third Tri-Annual Meeting of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, Micronesia Chapter at the Guam Museum, where he delivered a presentation titled "The Prevention of Human Trafficking

 in the Hospitality Industry.” 

As Guam navigates a delicate recovery alongside accelerated military growth, the organization aims to support a safer and more vigilant tourism environment—one that protects residents, visitors, and members of our hospitality workforce.

“Human trafficking is a global issue that can affect any community,” said Ernie Galito, president of Skål International Guam. “Our goal is not to duplicate the work of law enforcement or social service agencies. Instead, we want to bring together hotels, restaurants, airlines, car rentals, tour operators, and all sectors

that interact with travelers behind a common standard of awareness and

responsibility.”

In addition to industry partners, the initiative also invites students and educational institutions—including hospitality and tourism programs—to engage in awareness efforts and access training resources.

“Our future workforce plays a vital role,” Galito added. “By equipping students with the knowledge to recognize red flags early in their careers, we strengthen the foundation of responsible tourism for years to come.”

Through this initiative, Skål Guam will collaborate with local and federal partners such as the Guam Human Trafficking Task Force, the Guam Coalition Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, along

 with national programs including the DHS Blue Campaign, the Blue Lightning Initiative, and PACT/ECPAT-USA hospitality training.

“Responsible tourism begins with every one of us,” said Galito. “By fostering collaboration and providing our industry with practical tools, Skål Guam is helping build a safer, stronger, and more resilient tourism sector for our island.”

The initiative supports Skål International’s global mission to promote friendship, professionalism, and responsible tourism across more than 400 clubs in 80 countries.

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