IN recent days, there have been some changes in policy surrounding the movement of people within the country, in relation to the ongoing pandemic. The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) has released new policies to ease travel restrictions. The government is opening up the economy slowly to hasten recovery, and one of the ways it is doing that is by reviving the country’s tourism industry.
Certain areas and tourist spots are now open, like Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Clark Freeport Zone, Anilao in Batangas, Tagaytay Highlands, Boracay Island, and others. Ilocos Norte and Baguio are just two of the tourist destinations that are accepting visitors from specific areas: Ilocos Norte for residents of Luzon, and Baguio for visitors from several areas in Luzon, including Metro Manila.
The web site philippines.travel/safeph lists all of the country’s 81 provinces and tourist spots that are now open to the public. Other areas listed on the web site accept travelers within their respective cities, provinces or regions. Tourism establishments, however, are being ordered to implement the health and safety standards set by the IATF. And travelers should prepare certain requirements stated by local government units (LGU) before they visit—this information can also be found on the web site.
Safety marshals will be on patrol in the beaches and resorts to make sure physical distancing is being implemented. Mass gatherings and group events including sports competitions, youth camps, and other activities that gather crowds must comply with the health and safety protocols of the LGU and the IATF. Noncontact outdoor sports and exercises like swimming, surfing, running, and walking are allowed in these areas as long as the protocols are observed.
People who are not classified as authorized persons outside of residence are now allowed to travel between areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ). And from 21 to 60 years old, the age group of people allowed outdoors has been adjusted to 15 to 65 years old.
Outbound travel for non-essential trips are also allowed starting October 21 as long as travelers undergo health protocols or requirements, including negative antigen test results no more than 24 hours before departure. Tourists from outside the country, however, are still not being allowed into the country.
Malls are now allowed to conduct sales and promotional events, and travel agencies, tour operators and reservation activities in GCQ and MGCQ areas are also allowed to open, provided that they follow the mandatory health standards and protocols. Metro Manila itself may soon be placed under a more relaxed quarantine status if the daily cases and death figures from Covid-19 continue to decrease.
It is easy to let our guard down as we see these developments happening around us. Some may even be led to think that conditions are better now. The virus is still around, we must never forget this. There is still no cure and no vaccine, so the best protection is still to follow health and safety measures like wearing mask and face shield, frequent washing of hands, and social distancing.