The Department of Tourism (DOT) reiterated its call for safe personal travels as the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) placed Metro Manila and other areas under a stricter quarantine measure to prevent local transmission of the Delta Variant of COVID-19.
Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat noted that under the IATF resolution number 128, point-to-point travel to areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) and Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) shall be allowed without age restrictions subject to an RT-PCR test-before-travel requirement for those below 18 and above 65 years old, and other protocols and restrictions as may be imposed by the DOT and the local government unit (LGU) of destination.
However, recognizing the threat of the new COVID-19 variant, Puyat made a call for a stricter observance of health and safety protocols while conducting leisure travels.
“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 LGU of destination,” clarified Puyat.
“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,” she added.
Puyat likewise noted that staycations shall continue to be allowed without age restrictions noting 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.
Still, the IATF said that Meeting, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.), as well as social events in venue establishments are still prohibited.
Meanwhile, indoor tourist attractions shall not be allowed to operate while outdoor tourist attractions shall remain open and will be allowed to operate at 30 percent venue capacity with strict adherence to minimum public health standards.
Popular outdoor tourist sites in Intramuros such as the Fort Santiago and the Baluarte de San Diego remain open to visitors aged 18 years old and above. (DOT)