On October 1, Boracay has reopened to domestic tourists after being closed for over 6 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Seven people who flew from Metro Manila headed to the lovely island on the first day that it was reopened.
If you are planning on visiting Boracay soon, here are some things you need to know to make the trip as seamless as possible, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).
- A negative RT-PCR result within 48 to 72 hours
- Although age restriction has been relaxed to allow travelers below 21 and above 60 years old, only those without underlying medical conditions and those with negative RT-PCR results will be allowed to enter the island through the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan
- Confirmed booking in a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment
- Airline tickets
“A confirmed booking in a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment, air tickets, and negative test results should be submitted online, through http://aklan.gov.ph, for the approval of the Aklan provincial government,” the DOT said.
Tourists who will satisfy the aforementioned requirements and be allowed to enter the island will be given unique QR codes for contact tracing.
“The data from the QR code system will be used to identify close contacts, should a guest test positive for the coronavirus while on the island,” DOH said.
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat emphasized that while health and safety protocols have been put in place, the success of Boracay reopening will largely depend on the compliance and cooperation of the guests.
“We urge our visitors to be responsible tourists. Follow the guidelines, respect the rules. We can never be too complacent, even on vacation. We must adhere to the minimum health protocols. Let’s wear our mask when possible,” Puyat explained.
The DOT said that the accredited hotels will each have a designated health and safety officer who will contact the Boracay COVID Hotline number 152 should any of the guests exhibit symptoms of the virus.
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