Philippines drops pre-departure testing for fully-vaccinated travelers

Starting last May 30, negative RT-PCR or rapid antigen test results are no longer required to be presented upon entry by fully-vaccinated travelers arriving in the Philippines.

Acting Deputy Presidential Spokesperson and Communications Undersecretary Michel Kristian Ablan announced in an online press briefing that the new protocol was in accordance with the resolution approved by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) last May 26.

Per IATF-EID Resolution 168, inbound passengers do not need to present an RT-PCR test so long as they are 18 years old and above with at least one booster shot against COVID-19.

Those aging 12 to 17 years old who received two Covid-19 vaccine shots and those aging below 12 accompanied by fully-vaccinated or boosted parents or guardians are also exempted from the pre-departure RT-PCR requirement.

Nevertheless, fully-vaccinated travelers will still be asked to present acceptable proof of vaccination and passports valid for a period of at least six months at the time of their arrival.

As for temporary visitors, valid tickets for their return journey to the port of origin must be presented and it must be valid for a period of at least six months at the time of their arrival.

These updated and less stricter travel restrictions and requirements are intended to raise the number of tourist arrivals into the country, as fully welcomed and supported by the country’s Department of Tourism.

Source: https://www.traveldailymedia.com/philippines-no-longer-requires-pre-departure-testing-for-fully-vaxxed-travellers/

Author: Deb Davad