Is Philippines Open for Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning to visit the Philippines for leisure or vacation? The tourism industry in the country has been one of the most affected sectors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many travelers are wondering if the Philippines is open for tourism. In this article, we will discuss the current situation and guidelines for traveling to the Philippines.

Current Situation

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has been working closely with local government units (LGUs) to gradually reopen tourist destinations within their areas. However, it is important to note that not all LGUs have opened their doors yet. The decision to allow tourists also depends on the quarantine status of each area.

Entry Requirements

Before booking a flight, make sure you comply with the following entry requirements:

  • Pre-register on www.tourism.gov.ph.
  • A negative RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours before departure.
  • Confirmed booking at a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment.
  • Travel and health insurance coverage.
  • Quarantine arrangements depending on your destination.

Quarantine Guidelines

Upon arrival in the Philippines, tourists are required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period of either 10 or 14 days depending on where they came from. If you are coming from countries considered as high-risk for COVID-19 transmission, such as India and Pakistan, you will be required to undergo quarantine for 14 days at a designated facility.

If you test positive for COVID-19 during your stay in an accredited accommodation establishment, you will be transferred to a designated hospital or isolation facility until you recover.

Tourist Destinations Open for Visitors

As mentioned earlier, not all tourist destinations are open yet. Here are some of the popular destinations that are currently open to visitors:

  • Boracay Island, Aklan
  • El Nido, Palawan
  • Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
  • Baguio City, Benguet
  • Tagaytay City, Cavite

Safety Protocols in Tourist Destinations

To ensure the safety of both tourists and locals, strict health protocols are in place in tourist destinations. These include wearing face masks and face shields, maintaining physical distancing of at least one meter, frequent hand washing or sanitizing, and temperature checks.

Closing Thoughts

The Philippines is slowly reopening its doors to tourists while keeping their safety as a top priority. It is important to follow the guidelines set by the government and local authorities to avoid any inconvenience during your trip. With proper planning and compliance with protocols, you can still enjoy the beauty of the Philippines despite the ongoing pandemic.

Sources:

https://www.com/covid-19-updates/
https://www.aspx
https://dfa.ph/covid-19-advisories-for-filipinos/covid-19-advisories-for-filipinos