MANILA – The Tourism department on Tuesday asked travelers, especially those visiting destinations with eased entry protocols to continue following the health and safety protocols imposed by the government.
The statement came after Cebu scrapped the negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result as a requirement for tourists entering the province.
Tourism chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat on Tuesday said the Department of Tourism (DOT) "fully recognizes" the prerogative of local chief executives in deciding what protocols will best suit their particular situations.
"But we remind our tourists and stakeholders of the need to still strictly ensure minimum health and safety protocols such as wearing of a mask and face shield, physical distancing, hand sanitizing, and booking or operating in DOT accredited establishments, among others to protect both the tourists, tourism workers and the residents of our host communities," she said.
Meanwhile, she noted that the DOT is for the safe reopening of tourist destinations, saying this would allow the country to restart the economy and help tourism workers gain back their jobs.
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia issued Executive Order No. 12, Series of 2021 that eases restrictions for travelers who would engage in tourism-related activities in the province, provided they submit and comply with the following:
1. Present a valid medical certificate issued by a reputable doctor within seven days prior to the travel date.
2. Proof of pre-booking a resort or hotel establishment where he or she would stay during the duration of his or her visit. The resort or hotel establishment should be located within the province of Cebu and duly accredited by the Cebu Provincial Task Force
3. Pass symptoms checking or screening at the point of departure and at the point of arrival. (PNA)
