Hong Kong-bound Filipinos need to present docs certifying they are COVID-free


Filipinos going to Hong Kong will be required to present documents certifying that they have tested negative for COVID-19 before departure starting July 25.

NINOY AQUINO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)

In an advisory, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong said Filipinos bound for Hong Kong must undergo a SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid test (NAT) 72 hours before their flight.

Upon check-in, the passenger will be required to present two forms: Form A, the “Covering of lab report,” is a certification from a hospital or laboratory that the passenger underwent the NAT and tested negative for COVID-19; and Form B, a certificate from a government agency recognizing the laboratory or hospital where the passenger had his or her test as an accredited testing facility for COVID-19.

The public can download both forms from the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong’s Facebook page.

Aside from a negative test result, Filipinos are also required to present a hotel booking which is not less than 14 days starting from their arrival in Hong Kong.

The 14-day hotel booking is part of the mandatory quarantine for all travelers going to Hong Kong.

The consulate, citing the Hong Kong Labor Department, said employers should shoulder the expenses for the test and hotel booking.

Transit passengers are not covered by the new policy.