The Philippine Consulate in Honolulu has conveyed its appreciation to the State of Hawaii’s decision to include the Philippines in its Safe Travels Program that allows Filipino travelers to the island-state to bypass its mandatory 10-day quarantine period.
Consul General Joselito Jimeno conveyed the Philippine government’s message during a courtesy call on Hawaii Governor David lge on July 29, 2021.
Under the said program, Philippine Airlines (PAL) passengers traveling from Manila to Honolulu are now only required to present upon arrival in Hawaii a negative PCR test taken at a PAL-accredited laboratory 72 hours before departure from the Philippines.
Governor Ige informed Jimeno and his delegation that the state looks forward to restarting and increasing international travel with the Philippines on a “more robust and regular basis,” citing the large Filipino community which calls Hawaii home.
Jimeno also told the Hawaii governor that the Filipino community, through FiICOM CARES, has been very proactive in supporting the state’s efforts to increase the vaccination rate.
He added that the Consulate has been supportive of the community’s efforts through regular reminders via radio and other media partners to avail of vaccination and continue adhering to recommended health protocols in the state.
Gov. Ige emphasized the importance of the community’s endeavors, noting that people-to-people links are sometimes more effective in getting the message across and convincing people to be vaccinated.
The top Hawaii official said the government will focus on increasing the vaccination rate as well as public reminders on how to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures, he said, will be even more important to ensure a healthy and safe environment for in-person learning following the start of the new school year on August 3.
PAL officials led by its President Gilbert Santa Maria, North America Regional Head Bryan Lim, Honolulu Area Manager Soledad Solleza also joined Consul General Jimeno in the courtesy call.