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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider COVID-19 swab tests to be reinstated for Boracay-bound tourists

COVID-19 swab tests to be reinstated for Boracay-bound tourists

Published Jan 6, 2022 08:00 pm

ILOILO CITY — Starting January 9, tourists bound for world-famous Boracay Island in Malay town, Aklan province need to undergo COVID-19 swab tests.

This was after Governor Florencio Miraflores reinstated the swab tests even for fully vaccinated tourists with the threat of COVID-19’s Omricon variant in an order released Wednesday, January 5.

Visitors enjoy the sunset at world-famous Boracay Island. (Ernesto Bandiola Cruz/File/Manila Bulletin)

In Executive Order No. 2022-001, inbound travelers to Boracay need to have a test result that certifies they are not infected with COVID-19.

To recall, the COVID-19 swab tests requirement was first introduced in October 2020 when the national government allowed domestic tourism in Boracay during the COVID-19 pandemic’s first year.

It was only last November 16, 2021 when Boracay reopened to all fully vaccinated tourists in the hopes of revitalizing the economy of the country’s most famous beach destination.

For December 2021 alone, Boracay had 113,596 tourists. It was said to be the highest number of tourists during the pandemic period.

Meanwhile, the latest order also reiterates the other requirements including that the traveler must have booking at an accredited hotel or resort; proof of vaccination status; and the QR Code with health declaration status.

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