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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOT reiterates call for safe travel amid Delta variant threat

DOT reiterates call for safe travel amid Delta variant threat

Published Jul 24, 2021 04:01 pm

Domestic travel without age restrictions is still allowed in the country but tourists should observe stricter health and safety protocols amid reports of local transmission of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Delta variant, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.

DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat (Ali Vicoy / File Photo / MANILA BULLETIN)

"Individuals of all ages may still pursue their travel plans, but needless to say, with the threat of the Delta variant, our travelers must practice extra caution and strictly adhere to the rules and guidelines of the local government unit (LGU) of destination," Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said on Saturday, July 24.

In Resolution No. 128 released by the government's pandemic task force, point-to-point travel to areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified GCQ shall be allowed without age restrictions subject to a test-before-travel requirement for those below 18 and above 65 years old.

Travelers are also required to follow other protocols and restrictions being imposed by the DOT and the LGU of destination.

The country's tourism sector has been among the hardest hit by the ongoing pandemic due to travel restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19.

"The Department is continuously looking for ways to further help the local tourism industry and its stakeholders get back on its feet as soon as possible but we remind everyone who wishes to travel for leisure to follow the imposed minimum health standards and social distancing measures," Puyat added.

The DOT chief likewise noted that staycations are still allowed without age restrictions, adding that those below 18 must be subject to an RT-PCR test, while those above 18 should be fully vaccinated.

"If not fully vaccinated, they need to undergo an RT-PCR test as well," she said.

Meanwhile, Meeting, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.), as well as social events in venue establishments are still prohibited according to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Indoor tourist attractions will still be closed, while outdoor tourist attractions will be allowed to operate at 30 percent venue capacity "with strict adherence to minimum public health standards."

Open outdoor sites include destinations in Intramuros such as Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego for visitors aged 18 and above.

Related Tags

travel requirement bernadette romulo-puyat age restrictions delta variant Department of Tourism (DOT) safe travel Tourists
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